Why Tungsten Wedding Bands?

Tungsten wedding bands are a modern alternative to classic gold and platinum bands. They are affordable, durable, and scratch-resistant, making them a popular choice for grooms. With prices starting at $169, tungsten rings are a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. The metal is available in white, grey, and black, offering a unique appearance for those who want to steer clear of traditional colours. However, it's important to note that tungsten rings cannot be resized due to their hardness, and they may crack or shatter if dropped or smashed against a hard surface.

Tungsten is a cheaper option than gold or platinum

The affordability of tungsten rings means that if you lose or break your ring, replacing it won't deplete your savings account. This is especially beneficial for those who are prone to losing their rings or who lead an active lifestyle and are worried about damaging their ring.

While the price of tungsten rings varies, the quality of the bands doesn't differ significantly between price points. This is because most tungsten rings are manufactured by the same couple of Chinese manufacturers, and companies simply mark up the prices differently. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a less expensive option when it comes to tungsten bands.

Although tungsten is a cheaper option, it does not compromise on quality. It is one of the strongest metals out there, with scratch-resistant and shine properties that can compete with any precious metal. Tungsten rings are also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with skin sensitivities.

It's strong, durable, and scratch-resistant

Tungsten wedding bands are known for their strength and durability. This is due to the hardness of the metal, which also makes it scratch-resistant. In fact, tungsten is one of the strongest metals out there, even stronger than steel, and its shine won't fade over the years.

The hardness of tungsten means that it is less malleable than other metals, such as gold. This means that tungsten rings are resistant to bending and warping, maintaining their shape for years to come. However, this also means that tungsten rings are more brittle and prone to cracking or shattering if dropped or knocked against a hard surface.

Tungsten's hardness also means that these rings cannot be resized. If a ring no longer fits, it cannot be adjusted and must be replaced. This is something to keep in mind when choosing a wedding band, as fingers can change size over time.

Despite being a strong and durable metal, tungsten is also surprisingly affordable. This is because tungsten is not a rare or expensive metal. This makes it a great option for those on a budget or for those who are concerned about losing their ring.

It's hypoallergenic

One of the most appealing features of tungsten wedding bands is their hypoallergenic properties. This makes tungsten rings ideal for people with sensitive skin or known metal allergies.

The primary component of tungsten rings is tungsten carbide, a compound formed by combining tungsten and carbon atoms. This unique composition ensures that tungsten rings are nickel-free. Nickel is a common culprit behind skin irritations and allergic reactions caused by traditional jewellery materials.

While some individuals may experience mild reactions to certain metals, tungsten rings are highly unlikely to trigger such issues. The inert nature of tungsten carbide minimises the risk of allergic responses, making these rings an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin or known metal allergies.

Tungsten rings offer a pure and hypoallergenic alternative to gold or silver, which can contain trace amounts of nickel or other potentially irritating alloys. The absence of these reactive elements significantly reduces the likelihood of skin discolouration, rashes, or other adverse reactions that can occur with prolonged exposure to certain metals.

For individuals with known metal allergies, tungsten rings present a safe and stylish solution. However, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or conduct a patch test before making a purchase, as individual sensitivities may vary.

It's low-maintenance

Tungsten wedding rings are low-maintenance. They require very little maintenance and can withstand a lot of wear without tarnishing. Their polish can last for years without becoming dull like other metals such as gold or silver. The rings are also strong enough to withstand any warping, so the shape of your ring will stay the same for years.

The scratch-resistant quality of tungsten rings means less money spent on reshaping or cleaning efforts with a jeweller. If your tungsten ring does get dirty, you can soak it in warm soapy water and wipe it with a dry cloth.

Tungsten rings are also tarnish-resistant and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with skin sensitivities. They are known to hold their polish forever.

Tungsten carbide rings can be permanently polished and will remain looking the same as the day you bought them for an eternity. This means you’ll save money by not having to get your ring polished every few years.

If you're looking for a ring that will stand the test of time with minimal upkeep, a tungsten wedding band is a great option.

It can't be resized

One of the biggest drawbacks of tungsten wedding bands is that they cannot be resized. This is due to the hardness of the metal, which makes it impossible to cut and shape without causing breakage. In fact, tungsten is so hard that it ranks a 9-9.5 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, with only diamond being harder. As a result, any attempt to resize a tungsten ring would lead to the continuity of the band being affected and could potentially compromise the integrity of the ring altogether.

The inability to resize tungsten rings can be a significant problem, as it means that the band will never be able to be adjusted for a perfect fit. This is especially concerning for individuals whose ring size may change over time. However, some retailers, such as Timeless Tungsten, offer a lifetime resizing warranty, where they will exchange the original ring for a brand new one in the desired size.

Additionally, the hardness of tungsten can also make it challenging to find the right size in the first place. It is recommended to try a fitting size and a quarter to one-half size up to determine the most comfortable option. It is also worth noting that fingers can shrink and expand in different weather conditions, so it is important to take this into account when choosing a tungsten wedding band.

While tungsten's hardness makes it an excellent choice for a durable and scratch-resistant wedding band, it also limits the ability to customise or adjust the ring after purchase. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals considering a tungsten wedding band to be certain of their ring size and to be aware of the potential challenges in resizing.

Frequently asked questions