All You Need To Know

Your wedding ring is important. You’re going to wear this symbol of your love and commitment every day. We also understand you may want a more modern option that won’t break the bank. We have you covered thanks to our collection of tungsten wedding bands.

Tungsten wedding bands are often described as the choice of the modern man. Known for their strength and bold style, as well as affordable price point,  this non-traditional metal may just be your new favorite. Interested in a tungsten ring? Read on to learn more!

What Is Tungsten?

In its purest form, Tungsten is very dense and fragile. However, once mixed with carbon alloys, it becomes one of the hardest metals available in jewelry. Tungsten is most commonly presented as a powder. It is this powder that is then used, along with an alloy such as nickel.

Other alloys, such as cobalt, are not preferred as it can cause allergic reactions (not something we want considering tungsten rings are known for their hypoallergenic properties – see below!).

How Are Tungsten Rings Made

Tungsten rings are created much like other traditional metal wedding rings. In this case, tungsten rings are created by combining 85% tungsten and 15% nickel, with nickel being the binder for the alloy. These metals are bound at high heat, 3600 Fahrenheit to be exact!

What Color Is Tungsten?

Tungsten naturally has a silver-gray color (a great choice if you want something similar to traditional white gold or platinum). This color is also its most popular. However, this versatile metal is available in other colors as well including black, pink (similar to rose gold), and yellow (similar to yellow gold).

In addition to different colors, tungsten rings are also available in different styles and finishes. From beveled edges to diamond accents, tungsten wedding bands are anything but boring!

Top Reasons To Choose Tungsten

People love tungsten for so many reasons. From their strength to their style, it is no wonder this modern choice continues to grow in popularity.

Durability

This metal is known for its strength, making it an ideal choice for someone who works with his hands or has an active lifestyle.

Ranking very high on the Mohs hardness scale, 8.5-9, only second to diamonds, this alternative metal can withstand pressures such as heat and daily wear.

Low-Maintenance 

The scratch resistance of tungsten helps to make it a great low-maintenance choice. In fact, it is widely described as the most scratch-resistant metal used in jewelry today. This metal also retains its shine long after you say “I Do,” just another reason to choose this terrific metal.

Hypoallergenic

Tungsten wedding bands are a great choice for those with sensitive skin. This hypoallergenic metal can be worn safely and securely.

Affordable

Similar to other alternative metal wedding rings, tungsten is considered an affordable choice. You can even find styles with dazzling diamonds considerably below the price of traditional metals.  

And at these prices, you can choose multiple rings! Go for a more traditional look for day-to-day and grab a ring with a dazzling diamond detail for date night. Whether you choose one or a few, tungsten rings are a great grab.

Tungsten Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable price point: compared to other classic metals like gold and platinum, tungsten is considered a more affordable option
• Scratch-resistant: the durability of this metal also makes it resistant to scratches, making it a great choice!
• Hypoallergenic: the alloys used in creating tungsten rings bind in a way that they lose their ability to react with the skin, making them a fabulous hypoallergenic choice.

Cons

• Heavy: because tungsten is so strong, it is also more dense, making it heavier than other classic metals.
• Will break, not bend: due to its durability, tungsten metal will not bend, but rather it will break.
• Can’t be resized: since tungsten is such a strong metal, it is not possible to resize it. If you get the wrong size, you will need to have your ring re-made instead.

FAQs

What is tungsten and why should I choose it for my wedding band?

Tungsten is an alternative metal known for its durability and bold look. It is a great choice if you have sensitive skin, a limited budget, and prefer a non-traditional look.

Is tungsten affordable?

Tungsten wedding bands are considered to be an affordable choice, especially compared to more traditional metals. However, if you choose a design that includes diamonds for example, this will increase the price.

Is tungsten different from titanium?

While sometimes confused with one another, the main difference between these metals is strength. Tungsten is a harder metal, making it stronger and more durable.

How do I take care of my tungsten ring?

This metal is as easy to take care of as it is to wear. To polish your ring simply follow the steps below:

1. Mix warm water with gentle, detergent-free soap
2. Gently clean with a soft toothbrush
3. Dry it using a clean cloth

As always, we still recommend avoiding long-term exposure to extreme temperatures and chemicals, as well as other similar situations.

Related Post: How To Protect Your Engagement Ring At The Gym: And Other Times To Remove Your Ring

Can I resize my tungsten ring?

Because of the nature of the metal, tungsten rings are unable to be resized. Therefore, we highly recommend trying to get the size right the first time. If you do end up with the wrong size, your tungsten wedding band can instead be re-made. Contact our fabulous customer service team for details!

Related Post: How To Measure Your Ring Size

Can I engrave my tungsten ring?

Of course! And at James Allen, we offer FREE ring engraving at checkout. 

Related Post: Wedding Ring Engraving Ideas

Totally Tungsten

When choosing a ring to represent your love of a lifetime, you want a metal that will last just as long. This alternative metal is becoming more and more mainstream thanks to its many advantages. From its durability to its bold style, tungsten is quickly becoming a top choice for the modern man.

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With over 10 years of experience writing and editing on a wide variety of subjects, Sarah is a veteran of the content world. Since joining James Allen, she has focused on all things diamonds and fine jewelry with the goal of educating and empowering consumers.