Tungsten Wedding Bands: Unbreakable Bond Or Bust?

Tungsten wedding bands are a popular alternative to traditional gold or platinum rings. They are durable, strong, and scratch-resistant, but they are not unbreakable. While tungsten rings are less likely to scratch than other types of wedding rings, they can break if enough force is applied. For example, if a tungsten ring is dropped or smashed against a hard surface, it may crack or shatter. This makes tungsten a less ideal choice for people who work with their hands or engage in physical activities where the ring may be subjected to impact. Additionally, tungsten rings cannot be resized, so if the ring no longer fits, a new one must be purchased.

Tungsten rings are not unbreakable

While tungsten rings are known for their durability, they are not unbreakable. They are, in fact, very easy to break. If you drop a tungsten ring or smash it against a hard surface, the metal may crack or shatter. This is due to the hardness of the metal, which also makes it prone to brittleness.

Tungsten rings are made from tungsten carbide, which is created by combining pure tungsten with carbon and a small amount of nickel or cobalt. This results in an incredibly strong metal that is often compared to diamond in terms of strength. However, despite its strength, tungsten carbide is still breakable.

The breakability of tungsten rings is important to consider, especially for those who work with their hands or are active. If a tungsten ring is damaged, it cannot be repaired by a jeweler. Additionally, tungsten rings cannot be resized, so if the ring no longer fits, a new one will need to be purchased.

While tungsten rings may be a popular choice for wedding bands due to their durability, scratch resistance, and affordability, it is essential to remember that they are not indestructible. In conclusion, while tungsten rings offer many benefits, they are not unbreakable, and this is an important consideration when choosing a wedding band or any other type of jewelry.

They cannot be resized

Tungsten wedding bands are known for their durability and strength. They are scratch-resistant and maintain their shine over the years. However, one of the major drawbacks of tungsten rings is that they cannot be resized.

The hardness of tungsten carbide, which is used in jewellery due to its durability and affordability, makes it impossible to alter the ring after it has been cast. Any attempt to adjust the metal will lead to breakage. This is a significant disadvantage as it means the ring will never be able to be resized for a perfect fit.

While some companies offer a lifetime resizing warranty, where they will exchange the ring for a new one in a different size, this is not a standard practice. Therefore, it is crucial to know your ring size before ordering a tungsten wedding band.

The inability to resize tungsten rings can be frustrating for customers, especially if they are unsure of their ring size or experience changes in their finger size over time. This may lead to the need to purchase a new ring, which can be inconvenient and costly.

To summarise, while tungsten wedding bands offer scratch resistance and long-lasting shine, their inability to be resized is a notable disadvantage. It is important for consumers to be aware of this limitation and carefully consider their ring size before purchasing a tungsten wedding band.

They are hypoallergenic

While tungsten wedding bands have become an increasingly popular alternative to classic gold and platinum bands, some people may be hesitant to make the switch to this trendy new metal. One of the most significant benefits of tungsten rings is that they are hypoallergenic.

Hypoallergenic properties are an important consideration when choosing a wedding band. After all, no one wants to spend their special day dealing with itchy, irritated skin! Tungsten rings are a great option for individuals with sensitive skin, as they won't trigger an allergic reaction. This is especially beneficial for grooms who are allergic to metals commonly used in wedding bands, such as gold. With a tungsten ring, they can wear their band worry-free, knowing that it is safe and hypoallergenic.

The hypoallergenic nature of tungsten rings is due to the fact that they are typically made with a nickel-binder alloy. While nickel is a common allergen for many people, the amount of nickel in tungsten jewellery is usually very small, and it is chemically inert, so it won't cause skin irritation. In fact, even people who are allergic to nickel in other types of jewellery can safely wear tungsten rings without issue. This makes tungsten an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin or nickel allergies.

It is worth noting that some tungsten jewellery may contain cobalt instead of nickel. Cobalt can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals, so it is important to be aware of the composition of the tungsten ring you are considering. To ensure the safety of your skin, opt for a tungsten ring with a nickel-binder alloy, as these are hypoallergenic and safe for even the most sensitive skin types.

In summary, tungsten wedding bands are a great choice for individuals seeking a hypoallergenic option. With their nickel-binder alloy composition, these rings won't trigger allergic reactions, making them a safe and stylish choice for your special day.

They are cheaper than gold or platinum

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a tungsten wedding band is its affordability. Compared to traditional metals like gold or platinum, tungsten is a much more affordable option. This is because tungsten is a fairly new metal on the market and does not hold its cash value in the same way that gold does. Platinum, on the other hand, is considered a precious metal due to its rarity. The amount of platinum ever mined could fit into a small 5'x5' storage unit, making it significantly rarer than tungsten. As a result, tungsten is a more cost-effective choice for those who want a durable and stylish ring without breaking the bank.

The price difference between tungsten and gold or platinum rings can be quite significant. A high-quality tungsten ring typically costs around $200, while gold and platinum bands can range from $500 to $1000 or more. For example, a simple platinum band can cost almost $1000, which is about ten times the price of a tungsten ring. Choosing a tungsten wedding ring can provide substantial savings, especially for those who are budget-conscious or prefer to allocate their budget to other wedding expenses.

In addition to its affordability, tungsten offers excellent durability and strength. It is one of the hardest metals on earth, second only to diamonds in terms of hardness. This makes tungsten highly scratch-resistant, ensuring that the ring maintains its lustre over time. Tungsten is also resistant to acids and corrosion, further enhancing its durability. However, it is important to note that tungsten's hardness also leads to its brittleness and breakability. While it may not bend as easily as softer metals like gold, a tungsten ring can crack or shatter if dropped or smashed against a hard surface.

When considering the choice between tungsten, gold, and platinum wedding bands, it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each metal. While gold and platinum have their traditional value and can be easily resized, tungsten offers superior durability, scratch resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preferences, budget constraints, and the level of care and maintenance one is willing to invest in their wedding band. For those seeking a cost-effective, low-maintenance, and stylish option, tungsten wedding bands present a compelling alternative to their gold or platinum counterparts.

They are more popular than titanium or gold

While gold and platinum are still among the most popular metals for wedding bands, tungsten is becoming an increasingly popular choice. Here are some reasons why tungsten is more popular than titanium or gold:

Durability and Strength

Many people admire the durability and strength of tungsten. Its hardness makes it scratch-resistant, and it won't bend as easily as other metals. Its shine also won't fade over the years. It is four times harder than titanium and twice as hard as steel.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Tungsten is hypoallergenic and won't trigger an allergic reaction. It is a good choice for people who are typically sensitive to other metals like gold. Titanium is also hypoallergenic, but tungsten is denser and feels more substantial on your hand.

Affordability

Tungsten is a fairly new metal on the market and is more affordable than gold or platinum. You can find a high-quality tungsten ring for around $200, while gold and platinum bands typically cost between $500 and $1,000 or more.

Unique Appearance

The unique appearance of tungsten sets it apart from classic gold and platinum wedding bands. It is available in white, grey, and black, making it ideal for those who want to avoid traditional colours. Many people like the sleek, masculine, and contemporary appearance of tungsten.

Weight

Some people prefer jewellery that feels solid and substantial, and tungsten is denser and heavier than gold. However, others may find that the metal weighs down their finger. In this case, a lighter metal like titanium may be preferred.

Frequently asked questions