Wedding Bands: Tarnish-Proof?

Wedding bands are traditionally made from precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. However, not all wedding bands are created equal when it comes to tarnishing. Tarnishing is caused by the reaction of metals to their environment, and different metals tarnish at different rates. For example, gold is soft and sensitive to chemicals, making it prone to scratching and tarnishing. On the other hand, tungsten, a popular choice for wedding bands, is highly scratch-resistant and does not tarnish, though it may appear tarnished due to corrosion and outer layer plating fade. Titanium, another popular choice, is lightweight, strong, and tarnish-resistant. Other metals like stainless steel are also gaining popularity for their durability, tarnish-resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. Ultimately, the choice of wedding band metal depends on individual preferences and lifestyles, as some metals may be more suitable for certain activities or require less maintenance.

How to prevent tarnishing

Wedding bands are often made of metal, and many metals tarnish over time. This is due to factors such as the reactivity of the metal, its hardness, and how you care for the ring in your day-to-day life. Tarnishing can cause your ring to lose its shine and appear faded.

To prevent tarnishing, follow these steps:

Know Your Ring's Material

Different materials require different care. For example, you shouldn't clean a titanium ring with gold cleaner, as this can cause irreversible damage.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals can damage the finish of your ring. Avoid exposing your ring to chlorine, bleach, ammonia, or other harsh cleaning agents.

Store Properly

When not wearing your ring, store it in a soft cloth pouch or jewellery box to protect it from scratches and damage.

Regularly Clean and Inspect Your Ring

• Soak your ring in a gentle cleaning solution made of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap or jewellery cleaner.
• Gently scrub the ring with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove stubborn stains or residue. Be careful not to scrub too vigorously, especially if your ring is prone to scratching.
• Rinse the ring thoroughly under warm running water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry the ring gently with a soft cloth or microfiber towel.

Take Precautions During Certain Activities

• Avoid swimming or showering with your ring on, as constant exposure to moisture can damage the ring.
• Avoid exposing your ring to hair care products, cologne, or deodorant, as these can cause buildup that can affect the finish.
• Avoid using an ultrasonic cleaner if your ring has diamonds or other precious stones, as these can loosen the settings.
• Avoid exposing your ring to harsh chemicals, such as those found in garages, warehouses, or factories.
• Avoid carrying anything sharp or heavy while wearing your ring.
• Store your ring in a temperature-stable environment, as extreme temperatures can alter it permanently.

By following these steps, you can help prevent your wedding band from tarnishing and keep it looking like new for years to come.

Pure tungsten rings

It is important to note that there are two grades of tungsten carbide: industrial grade and jewellery grade. Industrial-grade tungsten rings are cheaper and will tarnish over time. Jewellery-grade tungsten rings are more expensive but will not tarnish. Industrial-grade tungsten rings are often made with cobalt, which is not chemically inert and therefore reacts with the environment, oxidising easily when exposed to common household cleaners and even the skin's natural oils. Jewellery-grade tungsten rings are made with nickel, which is chemically inert and will not oxidise unless exposed to temperatures of 600°C.

If you are looking for a wedding band that will last a lifetime, a pure tungsten ring is a great option. They require very little maintenance and will retain their shine for many years.

Platinum as an alternative

Platinum is one of the rarest metals in the world and is a great alternative to the more common wedding band metals. It is a luxe choice, and one of the strongest precious metals, making it ideal for those who want a ring that will last a lifetime. In fact, platinum is the most durable of all metals. Its strength means it is able to securely hold precious stones in place, which is why prongs are often made out of platinum.

Platinum is a dense, malleable, ductile, and precious metal that features a silver-white colour. Its popularity has endured since the early 20th century and it shows no sign of going out of style. Platinum wedding bands are a luxurious choice, and while they are one of the most expensive metal options, their longevity makes them worth the cost. Platinum bands rarely get damaged in everyday life, and the metal retains its colour, meaning you won't need to replace it. If scratches do occur, your jeweller can easily polish them out.

Platinum is also a good option for those who want a ring that requires little maintenance. Unlike some other metals, platinum does not tarnish and is very scratch-resistant. Platinum wedding rings can be customised with diamonds or unique gemstones, or kept plain.

Titanium as an alternative

Wedding bands are often made from precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. However, these metals can be prone to tarnishing and corrosion over time. If you're looking for an alternative metal for your wedding band that won't tarnish, titanium is a great option to consider.

Titanium is an incredibly strong and lightweight metal, making it a perfect choice for those who aren't used to wearing jewellery regularly. It has a modern and unique look, and it is highly scratch-resistant and easy to maintain. Titanium rings are also hypoallergenic, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.

One of the biggest advantages of titanium wedding bands is their durability. Titanium is one of the strongest and longest-lasting metals available for jewellery. It is known to be corrosion- and tarnish-resistant, so you don't have to worry about your ring losing its shine or becoming damaged over time. With basic care, a titanium wedding band will last a lifetime.

In terms of maintenance, titanium rings require very little upkeep. They can be easily cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and occasionally polished with a soft jewellery cloth to maintain their shine. However, it's important to note that titanium rings cannot be resized, so it's crucial to ensure you have the correct size when ordering.

While titanium has many advantages, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Titanium rings may not have the same level of intricate designs and elaborate settings as rings made from other metals. Additionally, titanium is not as scratch-resistant as some other metals, such as tungsten. The lightweight nature of titanium may also feel too light for some individuals, giving it a cheaper feel.

Overall, titanium wedding bands are a great alternative to traditional precious metal rings. They offer durability, strength, and a unique look, all while being easy to maintain and hypoallergenic. If you're looking for a wedding band that will last a lifetime without tarnishing or corroding, titanium is definitely worth considering.

Stainless steel as an alternative

Many metal wedding rings will tarnish over time due to factors such as the metal's reactivity and hardness, as well as the level of care and daily activities of the wearer. While gold is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its durability, ability to be resized, and ease of polishing, some people prefer silver-coloured jewellery over gold.

Stainless steel is a great alternative to gold for those who prefer silver-coloured jewellery. Stainless steel wedding bands are a testament to timeless elegance, seamlessly blending quality with enduring style. They are crafted with care from sturdy materials, offering longevity built to last a lifetime. The resilience inherent in stainless steel makes these rings an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of style and practicality.

Stainless steel rings are tarnish-resistant and won't corrode or tarnish. However, chlorine can seriously damage or ruin stainless steel, so it's important to remove stainless steel rings before swimming or using a hot tub. Stainless steel is also difficult to resize, so it may not be the best choice if your ring size is likely to change.

Stainless steel wedding bands offer a diverse range of style options, from traditional to contemporary designs. For a classic appeal, consider a flat face and rubbed finish, perfectly polished bands with clean lines, or stainless steel bands with inlays of cubic zirconia. For a more modern look, options include black stainless steel rings with sandblasted finishes, two-tone gold inlays, or bands with mesh designs. No matter the style, these bands allow masculine grace and beauty.

Frequently asked questions