Wedding rings are available in different karats which determine gold purity. Wedding rings may be 10k with approximately 40% gold, 14k at approximately 58% gold, 18k with approximately 75% gold, 24k is pure gold. Gold rings that are not pure are designed using other metals such as copper, zinc, nickel and others.
Platinum gold is now a popular choice. Platinum is a more expensive metal but is also very strong and durable. Before purchasing a platinum ring notice if the ring is stamped "pure". The ring should be designed using approximately 95% platinum before it is considered pure. Wedding bands may be polished, have a matte finish or engraved designs.
The best man usually holds the ring on the wedding day and gives the ring to the groom at the appropriate time during the ceremony. The ring bearer may also carry the real ring on the ring bearers pillow. The best man takes it off during the ceremony and gives it to the groom at the appropriate time.