The tungsten rings They are jewels with qualities to last a lifetime, but they are also pieces of jewelery that have an impressive shine. Which makes them a good alternative, if you want to wear something nice and durable on your hand.
Without a doubt, it is a material that has become increasingly popular in the world of jewelry, but as with all metals that are used, there will always be some pros and cons. So it is possible, that if you are thinking of buying tungsten rings you want to meet them. Find out below everything you need to consider before making the decision to add tungsten rings to your jewelry collection.
What is tungsten?
Tungsten is a rare metal; on the periodic table, it is an element marked «W.» It is famous for having the highest melting point of any element, at 3422°C, and has a density comparable to gold. In its natural form, the metal does not oxidize, making it a desirable material for jewelry.
There is often some confusion regarding the name of tungsten jewelry, as the terms «tungsten» and «tungsten carbide» are used interchangeably. Pure tungsten is rarely used for jewelry purposes and combined with carbon and other elements, it becomes tungsten carbide.
In fact, all tungsten rings on the market are made from different grades of tungsten carbide, an alloy that contains tungsten and other materials such as carbon, cobalt, nickel, and titanium. However, there is a detail that we must take into account. The best quality tungsten carbide rings include at least 80% tungsten and 20% carbon alloy with other metals.
What to look for in tungsten rings?
As we have pointed out, if you are about to buy tungsten rings it is important to find pieces that are at least 80% tungsten. At this level of purity it is 10 times harder than 18k gold, although it will also have a substantial weight very similar to that of platinum. A feature that unscrupulous sellers take advantage of, to use an expensive filler instead of tungsten. Something that causes the value and integrity of the ring to diminish.
Another important factor to consider is size. Well, due to its incredible hardness, tungsten carbide rings cannot be resized. So it is recommended that you consider buying a regular size ring as well as a half size and keep the one that fits best.
However, there is also the option of finding a reputable jeweler that has a lifetime guarantee on their ring. Since, reputable jewelers and manufacturers are required to provide a lifetime sizing policy, to provide ring size changes when your finger size changes. Otherwise, if you change your finger size, you will stay with the size you purchased. This is why it is important to choose the comfort size of your band.
Pro of tungsten rings
Durability
This is the main reason people buy tungsten rings. yesIts durability makes it scratch resistant and perfect for people who have more active lifestyles. It pairs well with designs that use brushed finishes, making it a popular choice for men’s wedding rings.
Hardness
Silver, gold and platinum rings will easily bend over time and require refurbishment. But it is nearly impossible to bend tungsten, which means your ring will never lose its shape.
This is because tungsten has a rating of about nine on the Mohs hardness scale. Being, a diamond, which is the hardest substance in the world, with a rating of 10, the only thing that can scratch tungsten.
Weight
The tungsten rings they are typically heavy. In fact, more than most light “precious metals” offer for the same size and shape. Which can be a plus or a minus depending on your preference. To get an idea, its weight is comparable to that of platinum and gold.
no allergies
Tungsten is naturally hypoallergenic in its pure form. High quality tungsten carbide alloys are also hypoallergenic despite containing other elements; Only cheaply made tungsten alloys will irritate sensitive wearers if the ring contains nickel.
Affordability of Tungsten Rings
Tungsten is a fairly new metal on the market and does not hold its cash value like gold does. This makes the tungsten rings They cost a little less than most precious metals. Even when combined with the additional production costs associated with how elegant you need your ring to be, tungsten is still an affordable option.
Cons of tungsten rings
Can’t resize
The standard resizing ring process involves cutting into a ring and adjusting the size up or down. The incredibly high heat point of tungsten makes this procedure impossible for most jewelers. Also, tungsten becomes brittle after it’s first cast, meaning it can break if handled. It’s important to buy the right size ring, with a clear return policy in case it doesn’t fit.
prone to breaking
Although tungsten is the hardest metal on the planet and cannot be bent, this does not mean that it is indestructible. It won’t crack if you just drop it on the floor, but if you drop it from a second story balcony it’s definitely possible to break.
Resistant to metal work
Due to the nature of tungsten, solder (a low-temperature metal alloy) does not stick. This means that tungsten rings cannot even be reduced through alternative methods, such as adhering silver beads or plating the interior. Also, it is extremely difficult to polish and remove tungsten engravings without special tools. Keep this in mind if you plan to engrave something on a tungsten ring, as the inscription has to be correct or you will not be able to remove it.