How To Choose the Right Metal for My Wedding Ring?

When shopping for a precious stone, some people make the mistake of focusing solely on the item they desire. Picking the correct metal is equally crucial. Precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum are available, as are less common metals like titanium, tungsten, and palladium.

Each metal has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, making the final decision a matter of personal preference. 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 as a starting point, keeping in mind that the trade-off for maximum durability or hardness is often the inability to customise or resize, or the gradual loss of lustre over time. When deciding on the metal for your wedding band, it is important to take into account all of your preferences and needs.

White metals

White metals, which include silver, platinum, and palladium, are commonly used in jewellery. One of the most affordable options, silver is also the most abundant. Sterling silver, an alloy, is used to make jewellery such as silver rings (a mixture of metals). The purity of sterling silver is defined as 92.5% silver or higher. This remaining fraction is typically made up of copper. Because pure silver is so pliable, it would eventually lose its shape without this alloy. Silver's malleability is decreased by the addition of copper, which also makes it harder.

Platinum and palladium wedding bands are more costly than other metals. As with the single-metal alloys, these are made by combining multiple metals to achieve the desired properties. Both of these metals are commonly used to make rings with a purity of 95%. Usually ruthenium, iridium, or rhodium makes up the rest of the formula. The platinum ring is the heaviest because it has the highest density of the metals taken into account in the diagram.

Gold metals

Pure gold, like silver, is too soft to be worked into jewellery. Alloying with other metals allows for improved properties and a wider palette.

Gold's traditional yellow hue is preserved in yellow gold, which is also strengthened by a combination of silver and a small amount of copper. 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 hue. While white gold is an alloy of gold with another metal, usually palladium or platinum, yellow gold is simply pure gold. Looks more silvery than golden. This is because rhodium plating gives it a silvery sheen and makes it more durable.

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 pure gold. Gold with a higher percentage of platinum, like 18 karat, is more expensive than gold with a lower percentage of gold, like 14 karat (58.5%).

Newer metals

Nowadays, wedding rings are typically made of titanium, zirconium, tungsten, or steel. They're more affordable and long-lasting than precious metals like gold and platinum.

As with the other metals we've looked at, these are all alloys despite being called by the name of the main metal they contain. Typically, titanium rings are crafted from aircraft-grade titanium, which is an alloy with trace amounts of vanadium and aluminium. These rings are the lightest in weight compared to their size of all the materials shown in the diagram.

Tungsten carbide, a compound of tungsten and carbon, is used to create tungsten rings because it is one of the hardest materials. Tungsten carbide rings are so scratch-resistant that their owners often find themselves concerned about the damage they might do to other surfaces. This material's extreme hardness, however, can also make it easily broken. Find a stunning range of engagement rings at Janai Jewellery.

Cobalt is added to tungsten carbide rings in order to make them more pliable. Although it is not shown in the diagram, cobalt is also used to make rings and is often alloyed with chromium.

Zirconium rings with a black oxide coating are made by oxidising the metal. After polishing, the result is a sleek, dark surface. Since it is lightweight and has a high hardness, it is very scratch-resistant. There are also instances where regular zirconium wedding bands are present.

Last but not least, stainless steel rings may sound less alluring, but they hold up well under daily wear and tear. Stainless steel has a minimum of 10.5% chromium and is an iron-carbon alloy.

Strongest Metals for Wedding Bands

Red Gold

When copper is added to the alloys used to make this ring, a reddish gold colour is produced, also known as pink or rose gold. The copper content of the ring determines its hue, and this hue shifts as the ring's karat quality changes. This shade works best with warm undertones and darkens with time.

White Gold

Most commonly, palladium and silver are added to gold to create a white gold alloy. It's widely chosen because it flatters a wide range of complexions. Depending on the other metals it is combined with, white gold may be more expensive than pure gold. The rhodium plating that protects some white gold from tarnishing wears off after a year or so and should be reapplied then. The rhodium plating has the additional benefits of making the item whiter and more long lasting, as well as making it hypoallergenic. If you have sensitive skin, this will reduce or eliminate the possibility of a reaction to the metal. From classic to contemporary, find the perfect ring to match your unique love story with Temple & Grace. 

Silver

To put it simply, silver is a metal of choice. Just like gold, pure silver needs to be combined with alloy metals in order to be used in jewellery. Gold has the lowest price tag of any precious metal. Jewelry made from sterling silver must contain at least 92.5% pure silver, denoted as 925 on the item, and can have a finish ranging from glossy to matte. As compared to sterling silver, non-sterling silver has a higher percentage of alloy metals and less silver content.

Mixed silver is inexpensive, but it can be an allergen and it doesn't shine like other silver options do because of their higher weight. Silver can also look the part, but it's easily damaged, so it's 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, its purity of 90% to 95% makes it incredibly long-lasting, and its colour complements the brilliance of a diamond beautifully. Platinum, being a dense metal, will be noticeably heavier in the hand compared to other options. Since its colour is so close to that of diamonds and other precious stones, it simplifies the process of designing rings.

Palladium

For its rarity, palladium is considered a precious metal. Palladium typically contains 5% by weight of other alloy metals. Palladium is less heavy than platinum and just as tough, but its natural whiteness means it never tarnishes and requires no special care. A big plus of palladium rings is that they are hypoallergenic and suitable for people of all sensitivity levels. They can't be scratched easily either.

Due to recent shifts in the global market, palladium is now more expensive than platinum when used in jewellery. For this reason, we have decided to no longer offer it as a choice on our website.

What Kind Of Wear And Tear Will My Ring Go Through?

Because of its strength and durability, the rare and precious metal platinum is frequently used for wedding and engagement rings. Therefore, it is a great option for someone whose hands are constantly in motion or whose ring will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. In case you're dead set on gold, know that the higher the karat, the purer the gold, and the easier it will be scratched. A ring made of gold that has been hardened with an alloy will also keep its unique appearance after years of daily use. In need of something more potent? Consider using tungsten or titanium as alternatives to conventional metals.

Will My Ring Have Prongs That Hold A Diamond?

You should think about the metal's durability if you plan to prong-set a diamond in your engagement ring. Yes, a skilled jeweller can make almost anything, but durability should always be taken into account. Platinum prongs are a great option if you plan on setting a large diamond.

Do I Want To Engrave?

Platinum is the best metal for keeping engraving details, but gold and silver also work. However, the ability to engrave on an engagement ring is contingent on a number of factors, including available bandwidth. As a result, if this is absolutely crucial to you, you should have a talk with your jeweller before making a purchase.

How Much Upkeep Am I Interested In?

If you prefer warm metals and value low maintenance, a ring made of yellow gold (14 karat gold is less prone to scratches than 18 karat gold) is a good option. Your rings will need to be polished or cleaned occasionally, but other than that, they won't require much maintenance.

In contrast, white gold, which is produced by combining yellow gold with an alloy such as nickel, frequently requires dipping in rhodium to preserve its colour and lustre over time. Platinum never changes colour, so if you like the look of silver but want something that needs less maintenance, it's a good option. As with platinum, palladium won't oxidise or tarnish but is easily scratched.

Are The Metals Responsibly Sourced?

Certain people place greater importance on knowing the origin of their metals. Many of the marrieds we work with wonder where the gold they are buying is coming from. Supporting responsible practises, social development, and environmental protection in small-scale mining communities is made possible when newlyweds choose to use fair-mined certified gold, the same material used for the actual Nobel Peace Prize.

Platinum and Palladium

Platinum is extremely rare and therefore extremely expensive. Platinum rings are much less likely to break, chip, or crack than their gold counterparts. Because of its greater density, platinum is used to craft jewellery that is about 25 percent heavier than 18 karat gold and 50 percent heavier than 14 karat gold. The diamond in your ring will be safe and sound if it is made of platinum.

Typically, gold is harder than platinum. As time goes on, however, it proves to be more resilient than gold does. Platinum is so pure that it won't bother anyone with metal allergies. Many people believe that platinum is the best metal to use when making rings. Platinum jewellery from Temple & Grace is ideal for customers 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 is an economical alternative to platinum with many of the same desirable properties. In comparison to white gold, it is more rare and precious, yet it costs about the same, does not tarnish, and holds up well over time. Palladium alloys used by Temple & Grace are 95% pure palladium and 5% of other platinum group metals like iridium and ruthenium. As palladium alloys, they are white, non-reactive, lightweight, and strong.

What Carat Metal Should My Wedding Ring Be?

The wedding ring's metal is one of the most significant customization options you'll have. There are a variety of metals to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

White gold and yellow gold are the more conventional options. Metals like titanium and tungsten, as well as the more uncommon platinum and palladium, are also good options.

Keep in mind that the wedding and engagement rings will be worn together, so it's best to pick the same metal for both. Because some metals are harder than others, this will reduce the amount of wear and tear that occurs.

With that disclaimer in mind, let's examine the various metals.

Wedding bands made of yellow gold are the conventional choice. When it comes to jewellery, especially an item as long-lasting as a wedding ring, pure 24 karat gold is rarely used due to its softness. On the other hand, it is a fantastic choice when combined with other, more powerful metals. Both 9ct gold rings (37.5%) and 18ct gold rings (75%), which can be crafted to make detailed rings in a variety of settings, are excellent choices for wedding bands due to their high strength and malleability.

The silvery white colour of white gold rings is actually an alloy of yellow gold with other "white" metals like nickel or zinc, a fact that often escapes the notice of consumers. The rhodium plating makes the surface extremely hard and reflective. Rose gold, which gets its warm, inviting colour from a combination of yellow gold and other metals like copper, is another popular option.

Because of its scarcity, platinum rings cost the most of any of the commonly used noble metals. Those with hypersensitive skin can benefit from its naturally occuring hypoallergenic properties. There is a gentle, satin-like sheen to the surface. Since it is so dense, many people find comfort in its long-lasting strength.

The hypoallergenic properties and silvery sheen of palladium are similar to those of its platinum ancestor. Historically cheaper than platinum, its advantage has narrowed as it has become more widely used in automobile catalytic converters, driving up its price. Shop exclusive collection of engagement rings here at Anton Jewellery.

Other contemporary, hardy metals have joined precious metals as popular choices for wedding bands. Wedding bands made from these metals have a more modern appearance.

Titanium rings shine with a subtle grey sheen and are wonderfully lightweight. It's strong and long-lasting, so it won't bend or break, but cutting it and resizing it can be a hassle, so your design options are somewhat constrained.

Tungsten has remarkable tensile strength. Tungsten rings retain their lustre and shine forever. Although its strength prevents it from being resized, it is a popular choice among men, much like titanium.

Please use this primer as a jumping off point for further research as you consider the metals for your wedding bands.

Finding the most durable metal for wedding bands is easy. You should not be shy about seeking the assistance of jewellers if the process seems too daunting. Visit a jeweller, try on a variety of rings, and ask questions until you find one that fits and flatters your finger.

Conclusion

The most crucial information is that different metals have different advantages and disadvantages, and that your personal preferences and requirements should be taken into account when selecting a metal for your wedding or engagement ring. Pure gold is too soft to be worked into jewellery, so silver, platinum, and palladium are your most cost-effective bets. Wedding bands made of platinum or palladium are more expensive than those made of other metals because they require a combination of metals to achieve the desired properties.

Titanium, zirconium, tungsten, and steel are common alloys used to make wedding rings because they are less expensive and last longer than precious metals like gold and platinum. Tungsten rings are made from tungsten carbide, a material that is hard to scratch but can crack if dropped. Rings can be made from cobalt, which is typically alloyed with chromium. Black oxide rings are made by oxidising the metal and then polishing it to create a smooth, dark surface. A reddish gold colour, also known as pink or rose gold, can be achieved by using copper; this hue pairs well with warm tones and eventually darkens with use.

White and yellow gold are the most traditional choices, but titanium and tungsten are also good alternatives, and it's recommended that the same metal be used for both the wedding and engagement rings. Traditionalists often opt for yellow gold, which is softer and less durable than the more modern 9ct or 18ct gold, which are both excellent options due to their high strength and malleability. In order to achieve the white colour of white gold rings, yellow gold is combined with other "white" metals, and then the rings are rhodium-plated to make the surface extremely hard and reflective. One more well-liked alternative is rose gold. Although platinum is the most expensive noble metal, many couples now opt for less expensive modern, durable metals like titanium, palladium, and tungsten for their wedding bands.

Although platinum's hypoallergenic properties and silvery sheen make it a desirable material for catalytic converters in automobiles, this advantage has diminished as the material has become more widely used. Titanium is lightweight and has a subtle grey sheen, whereas palladium has a soft, satin-like sheen and is incredibly strong. Tungsten is a favourite among men due to its remarkable tensile strength, but it cannot be resized because of this strength. You can easily ask a jeweller for advice on which metal is the most long-lasting and they will also help you find one that is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing to wear.

Content Summary

• Picking the correct metal is equally crucial.
• 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?
• When deciding on the metal for your wedding band, it is important to take into account all of your preferences and needs.
• 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 hue.
• Most commonly, palladium and silver are added to gold to create a white gold alloy.
• Depending on the other metals it is combined with, white gold may be more expensive than pure gold.
• Just like gold, pure silver needs to be combined with alloy metals in order to be used in jewellery.
• As compared to sterling silver, non-sterling silver has a higher percentage of alloy metals and less silver content.
• A big plus of palladium rings is that they are hypoallergenic and suitable for people of all sensitivity levels.
• Because of its strength and durability, the rare and precious metal platinum is frequently used for wedding and engagement rings.
• Therefore, it is a great option for someone whose hands are constantly in motion or whose ring will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear.
• However, the ability to engrave on an engagement ring is contingent on a number of factors, including available bandwidth.
• Platinum is extremely rare and therefore extremely expensive.
• The diamond in your ring will be safe and sound if it is made of platinum.
• Many people believe that platinum is the best metal to use when making rings.
• This metal is an economical alternative to platinum with many of the same desirable properties.
• There are a variety of metals to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
• White gold and yellow gold are the more conventional options.
• Keep in mind that the wedding and engagement rings will be worn together, so it's best to pick the same metal for both.
• Wedding bands made of yellow gold are the conventional choice.
• When it comes to jewellery, especially an item as long-lasting as a wedding ring, pure 24 karat gold is rarely used due to its softness.
• On the other hand, it is a fantastic choice when combined with other, more powerful metals.
• Both 9ct gold rings (37.5%) and 18ct gold rings (75%), which can be crafted to make detailed rings in a variety of settings, are excellent choices for wedding bands due to their high strength and malleability.
• Rose gold, which gets its warm, inviting colour from a combination of yellow gold and other metals like copper, is another popular option.
• Because of its scarcity, platinum rings cost the most of any of the commonly used noble metals.
• The hypoallergenic properties and silvery sheen of palladium are similar to those of its platinum ancestor.
• Other contemporary, hardy metals have joined precious metals as popular choices for wedding bands.
• Wedding bands made from these metals have a more modern appearance.
• Please use this primer as a jumping off point for further research as you consider the metals for your wedding bands.
•  Finding the most durable metal for wedding bands is easy.