Your wedding ring is important. You’re going to wear this symbol of your love and commitment every day. We also understand you may want a more modern option that won’t break the bank. We have you covered thanks to our collection of tungsten wedding bands.
Tungsten wedding bands are often described as the choice of the modern man. Known for their strength and bold style, as well as affordable price point, this non-traditional metal may just be your new favorite. Interested in a tungsten ring? Read on to learn more!
Table of Contents
What Is Tungsten?
In its purest form, Tungsten is very dense and fragile. However, once mixed with carbon alloys, it becomes one of the hardest metals available in jewelry. Tungsten is most commonly presented as a powder. It is this powder that is then used, along with an alloy such as nickel.
Other alloys, such as cobalt, are not preferred as it can cause allergic reactions (not something we want considering tungsten rings are known for their hypoallergenic properties – see below!).
How Are Tungsten Rings Made
Tungsten rings are created much like other traditional metal wedding rings. In this case, tungsten rings are created by combining 85% tungsten and 15% nickel, with nickel being the binder for the alloy. These metals are bound at high heat, 3600 Fahrenheit to be exact!
What Color Is Tungsten?
Tungsten naturally has a silver-gray color (a great choice if you want something similar to traditional white gold or platinum). This color is also its most popular. However, this versatile metal is available in other colors as well including black, pink (similar to rose gold), and yellow (similar to yellow gold).
In addition to different colors, tungsten rings are also available in different styles and finishes. From beveled edges to diamond accents, tungsten wedding bands are anything but boring!
Top Reasons To Choose Tungsten
There are SO many reasons to choose tungsten, but we’ll stick to our favorites. From this metal’s strength to its style, this modern choice will only continue to grow in popularity.
Durability
An undeniable reason tungsten is great is its durability. So for those who work with their hands or generally lead an active lifestyle, this metal is a great choice!
Ranking very high on the Mohs hardness scale, 8.5-9, only second to diamonds, this alternative metal can withstand pressures such as heat and daily wear.
Low-Maintenance
The scratch resistance of tungsten helps to make it a great low-maintenance choice. In fact, it is widely described as the most scratch-resistant metal used in jewelry today. This metal also retains its shine long after you say “I Do,” just another reason to choose this terrific metal.
Hypoallergenic
Tungsten wedding bands are a great choice for those with sensitive skin. This hypoallergenic metal can be worn safely and securely.
Affordable
Similar to other alternative metal wedding rings, tungsten is considered an affordable choice. You can even find styles with dazzling diamonds considerably below the price of traditional metals.
And at these prices, you can choose multiple rings! Go for a more traditional look for day-to-day and grab a ring with a dazzling diamond detail for date night. Whether you choose one or a few, tungsten rings are a great grab.
Tungsten Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable price point: When compared with more classic metal choices for wedding rings, tungsten is widely considered to be more affordable.
- Scratch-resistant: Worried about getting a nice wedding ring because you don’t want to scratch it? Go with tungsten, the durability of this metal also makes it resistant to scratches!
- Hypoallergenic: When tungsten is created, the alloys come together in a way so that they lose their ability to react with and bother the skin. Making this metal a great choice for the groom with sensitive skin.
Cons
- Heavy: Tungsten’s strength has many pros but in this case, it is also a con because, since it is so strong, it is also more dense, making it heavier than other classic metals.
- Will break, not bend: Another downside to the strength of this metal, instead of bending, it will break.
- Can’t be resized: Unfortunately, this metal cannot be resized. This is again, due to its durability. If you get the wrong size, you will need to have your ring re-made instead.
How do I take care of my tungsten ring?
This metal is as easy to take care of as it is to wear. To polish your ring simply follow the steps below:
- Mix warm water with gentle, detergent-free soap
- Gently clean with a soft toothbrush
- Dry it using a clean cloth
As always, we still recommend avoiding long-term exposure to extreme temperatures and chemicals, as well as other similar situations.
Related Post: How To Protect Your Engagement Ring At The Gym: And Other Times To Remove Your Ring
FAQs
What is tungsten and why should I get it for my wedding band?
Known for its affordability, hypoallergenic properties, and unique style, this alternative metal is growing in popularity in the wedding ring world.
Is tungsten affordable?
What is affordable can be a very personal question. When comparing wedding band metals, tungsten is widely considered to be an affordable choice.
Is tungsten different from titanium?
Yes, although they look very similar, the main difference between these two metals is durability. Tungsten is the stronger choice.
Can I resize my tungsten ring?
Because of the nature of the metal, tungsten rings are unable to be resized. Therefore, we highly recommend trying to get the size right the first time. If you do end up with the wrong size, your tungsten wedding band can instead be re-made. Contact our fabulous customer service team for details!
Related Post: How To Measure Your Ring Size
Can I engrave my tungsten ring?
Of course! And at James Allen, we offer FREE ring engraving at checkout.
Related Post: Wedding Ring Engraving Ideas
Totally Tungsten
Are you the non-traditional type? Maybe you just love the look of alternative metals? Or maybe you need a low-maintenance option. Whatever your reason, tungsten wedding bands are a great choice. Just make sure to get the right size because resizing these beauties is not an option thanks to their strength.
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With over 10 years of experience writing and editing on a wide variety of subjects, Sarah is a veteran of the content world. Since joining James Allen, she has focused on all things diamonds and fine jewelry with the goal of educating and empowering consumers.