Wedding Rings: Can They Snap?

Wedding rings are often worn with pride and joy, symbolizing the love and commitment between two partners. However, over time, these rings can become susceptible to damage and breakage. The most common reason for a ring to break is through normal wear, which causes the band to become thinner and more fragile. This wear and tear typically occurs at the lower portion of the band, eventually leading to cracking or snapping. While it may not happen quickly, continually wearing a ring over an extended period can increase the likelihood of such damage.

Ring material matters

The type of metal you choose for your wedding ring can make a big difference. Some metals are more durable, while others are more affordable. Some are ideal for those who work with their hands, while others are better for those who want a traditional look. Here are some of the most popular wedding ring metals and their pros and cons:

Gold is the most traditional option and is available in several finishes, including white, yellow, and rose gold. Higher karat golds tend to have more luster and are more tarnish-resistant. Gold is also relatively easy to resize. However, gold is a soft metal that can be prone to scratches and damage. It can also get discolored if exposed to certain chemicals, such as bleach. White gold, in particular, will need to be replated every few years as it tends to yellow over time.

Platinum is a strong, heavy, and hypoallergenic metal with a white finish that won't tarnish. It is often considered the best metal for wedding rings due to its durability and longevity. However, it is also the most expensive metal, often twice as much as gold.

Palladium is similar to platinum in appearance and durability but is lighter in weight and less expensive. It is also hypoallergenic and tarnish-resistant. However, palladium is quite rare, so there may not be as many style options available.

Titanium is the hardest natural metal and is available in several finishes. It is scratch- and tarnish-resistant, making it ideal for those who work with their hands. It is also quite lightweight and affordable. However, titanium is among the most difficult metals to resize.

Tungsten carbide is even harder and stronger than titanium, with a higher luster and extreme tarnish resistance. It is a good choice for those who want a contemporary look and work with their hands. However, tungsten is very heavy, brittle, and cannot be resized. It is also difficult to cut off in emergency situations and can conduct heat and electricity, making it a safety risk.

Stainless steel is a newer metal for wedding bands that is tarnish- and scratch-resistant, lightweight, and hypoallergenic. It is also affordable and environmentally friendly. However, there are limited style options, and it is difficult to resize. Chlorine can also damage stainless steel.

Cobalt is a newer addition to the jewelry market, often compared to platinum in appearance and strength. It is lightweight, durable, and can be resized (up to half a size). However, cobalt is easier to scratch and is not considered a valuable metal. Some cobalt rings may also contain nickel, which can cause allergic reactions.

Ceramic is not a metal but is rising in popularity as a wedding band material. It has a unique look, many color options, and is scratch-resistant and lightweight. However, ceramic rings can break if dropped and cannot be resized.

Thickness of the band

The thickness of a wedding ring band is an important factor in determining its durability and longevity. While the choice of band thickness ultimately comes down to personal preference, thinner bands are generally more susceptible to wear and tear and may not be suitable for those with active lifestyles or those who work with their hands.

Thinner ring bands, typically measuring 1.3mm to 2mm in width, offer a dainty and feminine look that complements small hands and slender fingers. They are often chosen for their ability to make the centre stone appear larger and for their stackability with wedding bands. However, their delicate nature makes them more prone to bending, losing shape, and cracking over time. Thin bands may not be durable enough for daily wear if you engage in activities like exercising or lifting heavy objects.

On the other hand, wider bands, typically ranging from 4mm to 8mm in width, offer a more modern and contemporary look. They are more durable due to the increased surface area and can accommodate intricate designs and larger stones. Wider bands are a popular choice for men's wedding rings, especially for those with larger hands, as they provide a fuller fit and weight. However, they tend to be more expensive due to the increased amount of metal required and can be challenging to resize.

When selecting a ring band thickness, it is essential to consider your partner's lifestyle and habits. If your partner leads an active lifestyle or works with their hands frequently, a thicker band between 2mm and 3.5mm is recommended to provide added durability and security. Additionally, the type of metal used should be considered in conjunction with the band thickness. Softer metals like yellow gold are more prone to cracking or breaking, so opting for a more durable metal like platinum can help extend the lifespan of the ring.

In summary, the thickness of the band plays a significant role in the overall durability and aesthetics of a wedding ring. While thinner bands offer a delicate and elegant look, they may require more maintenance and care to prevent damage. Wider bands provide a sturdy and modern alternative but may be bulkier and more challenging to resize. By taking into account personal style, lifestyle, and metal choice, you can choose the ideal band thickness that strikes a balance between comfort, durability, and visual appeal.

Resizing risks

Resizing a ring can cause it to become thinner, which can lead to breakage. The process of resizing often involves removing some material from the shank (the body of the ring) or cutting and rejoining it, which can result in the walls of the shank becoming too thin. This is especially true if the ring is resized by more than two sizes. In some cases, an inexperienced jeweler may remove too much metal, increasing the risk of breakage. Therefore, it is important to choose a jeweler carefully and ensure they have sufficient experience in sizing rings.

Additionally, a ring that is too large for the wearer's finger can also be more prone to cracking or breaking. When a ring is loose, it is not as protected by the skin and muscle of the finger, making it more vulnerable to stress and strain. This can cause the ring to sustain more damage over time and increase the likelihood of breakage.

To avoid these risks, it is recommended to get the ring size right before purchasing it to minimize the need for resizing later. It is also suggested to choose a ring made of durable material, such as platinum, which is less likely to show signs of wear and tends to last longer without cracking or breaking.

Furthermore, regular inspections by a jeweler can help identify any potential issues with the ring's shank. For rings made of softer materials, such as yellow gold, it is recommended to have them inspected at least once a year. By taking these precautions, individuals can reduce the risk of their wedding ring snapping over time due to resizing issues.

Ring size matters

A ring that is too tight will be difficult to get over the knuckle and may cut off circulation. On the other hand, a ring that is too loose will slip off the finger and may be easily lost. It will also be more prone to damage, as it will be under more stress when worn.

There are several ways to determine your ring size. You can use a ring sizer, which is a thin measuring tape that you wrap around your finger and tighten or loosen to find the right fit. You can also use a keyring lined with a gradient of ring sizes, which you try on until you find the right size. These tools are inexpensive and can be purchased online.

Another method is to use a piece of string or paper and a ruler. You wrap the string or paper around the base of your finger and mark where the ends meet. Then, you measure the length in millimetres and divide by pi (3.14) to get the diameter of your finger. You can then use a ring size chart to find your ring size.

It's important to measure your ring size at the end of the day when your fingers are warm, as finger size changes depending on the time of day and the weather. It's also a good idea to measure your finger three to four times for more accuracy.

In addition to the above methods, you can also measure the inside of a ring that you already own and find the corresponding size on a ring size chart. This can be done by printing out a true-to-size ring size chart and placing your ring over the circles until you find the one that matches.

Avoid heavy lifting

Wedding rings can snap or break over time, and heavy lifting is one of the activities that can contribute to this. To avoid this, it is recommended that you take off your wedding ring before lifting heavy weights. This is especially important if your ring is made of a soft metal such as gold or silver, as these are more prone to scratches, bending, and breakage. Even if your ring is made of a harder metal, such as stainless steel or titanium, it can still be scratched by heavy weights.

If you are worried about losing your ring or forgetting to put it back on, there are a few options you can consider. One option is to get a silicone wedding ring to wear while working out. Silicone rings are flexible, lightweight, and won't cause injury if they catch on equipment. They are also inexpensive and can be found in packs of 10 for around $10. Another option is to wear your ring on a chain around your neck or to tie it to your shoelace or a keychain while you lift. You can also purchase a small carabiner to clip your ring to, keeping it safe and within reach.

In addition to heavy lifting, there are several other activities that can damage your wedding ring or cause it to break. These include swimming, washing dishes, gardening, painting, and cooking greasy or oily foods. It is recommended that you take off your ring before engaging in these activities to protect it from damage or loss.

It is also important to consider the fit of your ring. If your ring is too large, it can sustain more stress because the skin and muscle on your finger are not able to support it adequately. This can increase the likelihood of breakage. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your ring fits properly and is not too loose.

By taking these precautions and being mindful of the activities that can damage your wedding ring, you can help to avoid heavy lifting-related breakage and ensure that your ring remains in good condition for years to come.

Frequently asked questions