Some people make the common error of focusing just on the one precious stone or diamond they wish to acquire. It's just as crucial to use the correct metal. Options for metals range from the more conventional gold, silver, and platinum to the more exotic titanium, tungsten, and palladium.
Each metal has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so the final decision is up to the buyer. When choosing the metal for your wedding or engagement ring, consider the following rundown of the most common options.
Confused about which metal to choose for your wedding ring? Consider the seven metals down below first, keeping in mind that the trade-off for maximum endurance or hardness is typically the inability to customise, resize, or maintain the metal's lustre. Choosing the best metal for your wedding ring should include careful consideration of all of your preferences.
White metals
The three most common precious white metals used in jewellery production are silver, platinum, and palladium. Silver is the most affordable option and most widely used of the three metals. The silver in sterling silver rings is an alloy. All sterling silver must include at least 92.5% pure silver. The rest is often made up of copper. Since pure silver is so easily deformed, this alloy is essential. Copper improves silver's hardness and decreases its malleability.
Wedding bands made of platinum or palladium tend to be more costly than other metals. Alloying with other metals improves their qualities, therefore they are not made of the pure metals alone. Typically, the purity of these two metals in rings is 95%. Typically, ruthenium, iridium, or rhodium make up the remaining percentage. The platinum ring is the heaviest because it has the highest density of the metals taken into account in the diagram.
Gold metals
Similarly to silver, pure gold is too pliable to be fashioned into jewellery. Alloying with different metals allows for improved qualities and a wider range of colours.
The yellow tint of gold is preserved in yellow gold, and the durability provided by silver and trace amounts of copper is ideal. Along with gold, copper and silver are also present in rose gold, but the higher concentration of copper is what gives rose gold its distinctive reddish tint. Gold is often combined with another metal, such as palladium or platinum, to create white gold. To the naked eye, it seems more silver than gold. This is because rhodium plating gives it a silvery sheen and a firm surface.
The purity of a gold ring is expressed in terms of carats. Because of its softness, a ring will never be made of 24-carat gold, which is the purest kind of gold. Most gold is 18 karat , whereas 14 karat is more affordable.
Newer metals
Modern wedding rings are typically made of titanium, zirconium, tungsten, or steel. Not only are they more long-lasting than precious metals like gold and platinum, but they also cost far less.
They are all mixtures of metals, despite being called by the name of the principal metal they include. Aircraft-grade titanium, an alloy with minor amounts of chromium and aluminium added, is typically used to make titanium rings. These rings are the lightest in weight compared to their size of all the materials shown in the diagram.
Tungsten carbide, the combination of tungsten and carbon, is among the hardest known materials and is used to create tungsten rings. With a tungsten carbide ring, you won't have to worry about scratches; instead, you'll have to watch out for the damage you do to other surfaces. Its extraordinary toughness, however, can also make it easily broken.
Rings made of tungsten carbide are made more malleable by the addition of a little quantity of cobalt. Although it is not shown in the diagram, cobalt is also used to make rings and is often alloyed with chromium.
Zirconium metal is oxidised to form a black covering of zirconium oxide, which is then used to make black zirconium rings. Afterwards, polishing creates a sleek, dark finish. Its low density and high toughness make it nearly impossible to scratch. Regular zirconium wedding bands are occasionally spotted as well.
Metal rings are the least beautiful option, but they're the most durable. A minimum of 10.5% chromium is required to classify a metal as stainless steel.
Strongest Metals for Wedding Bands
Red Gold
Copper is added to the alloys in the this ring to generate the reddish gold (also known as pink or rose gold) alternatives. The copper component of the ring determines its colour, and this varies with the karat. This shade is best on people with warm undertones, and it darkens with time.
White Gold
The term "white gold" refers to a type of gold that has been combined with other white metals, most commonly palladium and silver. For its flattering appearance on a wide range of skin tones, it has gained widespread favour as a fashion accessory. Depending on the other metals it is combined with, white gold can be more expensive than pure gold. White gold that has been rhodium-plated will eventually lose its lustre and should be replated once a year at the very least. The benefits of rhodium plating include increased whiteness, increased durability, and hypoallergenicity. If you have sensitive skin, this will significantly reduce or eliminate the possibility of a reaction to the metal.
Silver
Among metals, silver is one of the most sought after. Similar to gold, pure silver needs to be blended with alloy metals in order to be utilised in jewellery. It's the least expensive precious metal there is. A minimum of 92.5% pure silver is required for sterling silver, which can have a variety of finishes from matte to shining and a colour spectrum from very white to a little greyish white. There is less silver and more alloy metals in non-sterling silver.
Affordable though it may be, mixed silver presents health risks and lacks the lustre of silver of higher weight and purity. Although silver has the potential to look the part, it is readily damaged and is therefore not a good choice for wedding or engagement rings.
Platinum
Platinum is the most sought after because it is the finest, most durable, and most aesthetically pleasing metal for rings. Platinum can be the most expensive metal choice depending on current market conditions. However, because it is so pure, it lasts a very long time, and its colour complements the brilliance of a diamond beautifully. Platinum, being a thick metal, will be noticeably heavier in the hand compared to other options. Because its colour is so close to that of diamonds and other valuable stones, it simplifies the process of designing rings.
Palladium
The mineral palladium is extremely uncommon. About 5% of other alloy metals are typically added to a mixture of palladium. Palladium is less heavy than platinum and just as hardy, but its natural whiteness means it never tarnishes and requires no special care. Palladium rings are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for people of any skin type. They can also withstand being scratched.
As a result of recent shifts in the global market, palladium has become effectively more pricey in jewellery than platinum, and as a result, we have decided to no longer offer it as a metal choice on our website.
Where Does My Ring Stand In Terms Of Wear And Tear?
Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands and engagement rings due to its strength and durability. Therefore, it is a great option for someone whose hands are constantly in motion and whose ring will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. If you absolutely must have gold, go for a lower karat; the higher the karat, the purer the gold, but the easier it will be scratched. In contrast, gold that has been toughened with an alloy will likewise keep its unique appearance after years of regular wear. Do you require something with even more punch? Metals like tungsten and titanium are alternatives worth looking into.
Do the prongs of my ring have the capacity to secure a diamond?
If the diamond in your engagement ring will be prong-set, the metal you choose should be able to secure it securely. A skilled jeweller can manufacture almost anything, but durability should always be taken into account. Choose platinum prongs if you plan to set a large diamond.
Should I engrave?
The finest features, like as etching, are best preserved in platinum, but softer metals like gold and silver can do the trick. However, the ability to engrave an engagement ring is contingent on a number of elements, one of which is bandwidth. Therefore, if this is an absolute must, you should have a talk with your jeweller before making a purchase.
How Much Is The Maintenance?
A 14-karat yellow gold ring is a better option than 18-karat since it is less likely to scratch, making it a fantastic choice for someone who enjoys warm-colored metals and needs minimum upkeep. Your rings will need to be polished or cleaned sometimes, but other than that, they won't require any attention.
White gold, produced by mixing yellow gold with an alloy such as nickel, typically requires annual dipping in rhodium to preserve its colour and lustre. Platinum never changes colour, so if you enjoy the silvery sheen that distinguishes it, but would prefer something that takes less maintenance, it is an excellent choice. Palladium, on the other hand, does not oxidise or tarnish, although it does scratch readily.
Platinum and Palladium
Platinum is both rare and expensive because of its rarity. Unlike gold rings, platinum rings are much less likely to break, chip, or crack. Because of the greater density of platinum compared to gold, platinum jewellery is typically 25% heavier than 18K gold jewellery and 50% heavier than 14K gold jewellery. A platinum ring will protect your diamond from loss or damage.
In comparison to gold, platinum is typically more pliable. On the other hand, it outlasts gold and doesn't degrade as quickly. Platinum is so pure that those who are sensitive to other metals won't have any reactions when they wear or use it. Many people believe that platinum is the best metal to use for making rings. Platinum jewellery from Temple & Grace is suitable for consumers who suspect they may have an allergy to certain metals because it is guaranteed to be made from a 950 quality platinum alloy.
Palladium Palladium is a good alternative to platinum if you want the same look but can't afford the higher price. This metal may replace platinum in many applications while saving you a tonne of money. It's a good alternative to 14k white gold due to being rarer and more expensive than white gold while yet being reasonably priced, not tarnishing, and lasting for years. Temple & Grace uses palladium alloys composed of 95% pure palladium and 5% of additional platinum group metals, such as iridium and ruthenium, to create their jewellery. White, hypoallergenic, lightweight, and strong, palladium alloys have many desirable qualities.
What type of metal should I have my wedding ring in?
Your wedding ring's metal is one of the most significant customization options. It's important to weigh the pros and downsides of each metal before making a final decision.
White gold and yellow gold are the more conventional options. However, other metals like platinum and platinum, as well as alternative metals like titanium and tungsten, are also common preferences.
It's important to keep in mind that the wedding and proposal rings will be worn together, so it's best to pick the same metal for both. The reason for this is that some metals are stronger than others, therefore taking this precaution will reduce the amount of wear and tear that occurs.
Therefore, let's examine the various metals with that caveat in mind.
Rings made of yellow gold are the conventional option. Since you'll likely be wearing your wedding ring for the rest of your life, jewellers typically avoid using pure 24 karat Gold because it's too delicate. However, it is a fantastic choice when paired with other, stronger metals. Both 9ct gold and 18ct gold rings are durable and beautiful choices for wedding bands due to their high gold content and the versatility of their settings.
Many do not know that the yellow gold used to make white gold rings is really alloyed with other "white" metals like nickel or zinc to get its silvery white colour. Rhodium plating makes the surface extremely durable and reflective. Rose gold, which gets its attractive pinkish tint from a combination of yellow gold and other metals like copper, is another popular option.
Because of its scarcity, platinum rings cost the highest of any of the widely used noble metals. It's helpful for those with hypersensitive skin because it's hypoallergenic by nature.
The overall effect is smooth and satin-like. Many people like its weight and durability.
Like its platinum cousin, palladium has a similar lustrous silver sheen and is also hypoallergenic. It used to be much cheaper than platinum, but as its use in automobile catalytic converters has increased, the price gap has narrowed.
Some other contemporary, hardy metals have joined precious metals as popular choices for wedding bands. In addition to traditional gold and platinum, these newer metals can make for stylish wedding bands.
Titanium rings shine with a subtle grey sheen and are incredibly light. Although it is strong and will retain its original form, it is more difficult to cut and resize, limiting creative freedom.
The strength of tungsten is unparalleled. You can wear a tungsten ring without worrying about it dulling or scratching. Although its strength prevents it from being resized, it is a popular choice among males, much like titanium.
We hope this primer on wedding ring metals has been informative and useful to you.
Wedding bands can be made from a wide variety of metals, each with its own strengths and aesthetic preferences. You should not be shy about seeking the assistance of jewellers if the process seems too daunting. Visit a jeweller, ask questions, try on rings, and settle on a sturdy band once and for all.
Conclusion
Choosing the best metal for your wedding ring should include careful consideration of all of your preferences. Options for metals range from the more conventional gold, silver, and platinum to the more exotic titanium, tungsten, and palladium. Each metal has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so the final decision is up to the buyer. Modern wedding rings are typically made of titanium, zirconium, tungsten, or steel. Aircraft-grade titanium, an alloy with minor amounts of chromium and aluminium added, is typically used to make titanium rings.
Stainless steel is the least beautiful option, but it's the most durable. White gold has been rhodium-plated to increase its lustre and make it more expensive than pure gold. Platinum is the most sought after because it is the finest, most durable, and aesthetically pleasing metal for rings. Palladium is less heavy than platinum and just as hardy, but its natural whiteness means it never tarnishes and requires no special care. Palladium has become effectively more pricey in jewellery, and we have decided to no longer offer it as a metal choice on our website.
Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands and engagement rings due to its strength and durability. If you absolutely must have gold, go for a lower karat; the higher the karat, the purer the gold, but the easier it will be scratched. A platinum ring will protect your diamond from loss or damage. Palladium is a good alternative to platinum if you want the same look but can't afford the higher price. White, hypoallergenic, lightweight, and strong, palladium alloys have many desirable qualities.
It's important to keep in mind that the wedding and proposal rings will be worn together, so it's best to pick the same metal for both. Jewellers typically avoid using pure 24 karat Gold because it's too delicate. Platinum rings cost the highest of any of the widely used noble metals. Rhodium plating makes the surface extremely durable and reflective. You can wear a tungsten ring without worrying about it dulling or scratching. Although its strength prevents it from being resized, it is a popular choice among males.
Content Summary:
- It's just as crucial to use the correct metal.
- Options for metals range from the more conventional gold, silver, and platinum to the more exotic titanium, tungsten, and palladium.
- When choosing the metal for your wedding or engagement ring, consider the following rundown of the most common options.
- Confused about which metal to choose for your wedding ring?
- Choosing the best metal for your wedding ring should include careful consideration of all of your preferences.
- White metals The three most common precious white metals used in jewellery production are silver, platinum, and palladium.
- The silver in sterling silver rings is an alloy.
- Alloying with different metals allows for improved qualities and a wider range of colours.
- The purity of a gold ring is expressed in terms of carats.
- Because of its softness, a ring will never be made of 24-carat gold, which is the purest kind of gold.
- Modern wedding rings are typically made of titanium, zirconium, tungsten, or steel.
- Not only are they more long-lasting than precious metals like gold and platinum, but they also cost far less.
- These rings are the lightest in weight compared to their size of all the materials shown in the diagram.
- Rings made of tungsten carbide are made more malleable by the addition of a little quantity of cobalt.
- Metal rings are the least beautiful option, but they're the most durable.
- Red Gold Copper is added to the alloys in the this ring to generate the reddish gold (also known as pink or rose gold) alternatives.
- Depending on the other metals it is combined with, white gold can be more expensive than pure gold.
- The benefits of rhodium plating include increased whiteness, increased durability, and hypoallergenicity.
- Silver Among metals, silver is one of the most sought after.
- Similar to gold, pure silver needs to be blended with alloy metals in order to be utilised in jewellery.
- There is less silver and more alloy metals in non-sterling silver.
- As a result of recent shifts in the global market, palladium has become effectively more pricey in jewellery than platinum, and as a result, we have decided to no longer offer it as a metal choice on our website.
- Where Does My Ring Stand In Terms Of Wear And Tear?
- Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands and engagement rings due to its strength and durability.
- Therefore, it is a great option for someone whose hands are constantly in motion and whose ring will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear.
- Do the prongs of my ring have the capacity to secure a diamond?
- If the diamond in your engagement ring will be prong-set, the metal you choose should be able to secure it securely.
- Choose platinum prongs if you plan to set a large diamond.
- Should I engrave?
- However, the ability to engrave an engagement ring is contingent on a number of elements, one of which is bandwidth.
- Therefore, if this is an absolute must, you should have a talk with your jeweller before making a purchase.
- A 14-karat yellow gold ring is a better option than 18-karat since it is less likely to scratch, making it a fantastic choice for someone who enjoys warm-colored metals and needs minimum upkeep.
- White gold, produced by mixing yellow gold with an alloy such as nickel, typically requires annual dipping in rhodium to preserve its colour and lustre.
- Platinum is both rare and expensive because of its rarity.
- A platinum ring will protect your diamond from loss or damage.
- Many people believe that platinum is the best metal to use for making rings.
- What type of metal should I have my wedding ring in?
- Your wedding ring's metal is one of the most significant customization options.
- It's important to keep in mind that the wedding and proposal rings will be worn together, so it's best to pick the same metal for both.
- Since you'll likely be wearing your wedding ring for the rest of your life, jewellers typically avoid using pure 24 karat Gold because it's too delicate.
- However, it is a fantastic choice when paired with other, stronger metals.
- Both 9ct gold and 18ct gold rings are durable and beautiful choices for wedding bands due to their high gold content and the versatility of their settings.
- Rose gold, which gets its attractive pinkish tint from a combination of yellow gold and other metals like copper, is another popular option.
- Some other contemporary, hardy metals have joined precious metals as popular choices for wedding bands.
- In addition to traditional gold and platinum, these newer metals can make for stylish wedding bands.
- The strength of tungsten is unparalleled.
- You can wear a tungsten ring without worrying about it dulling or scratching.
- We hope this primer on wedding ring metals has been informative and useful to you.
- Wedding bands can be made from a wide variety of metals, each with its own strengths and aesthetic preferences.
- You should not be shy about seeking the assistance of jewellers if the process seems too daunting.