Titanium rings are beautiful and attractive, but their popularity in the jewelry world has also been on the rise, thanks in particular to their incredible strength. Because of this feature, it is one of the preferred options for many men and women. Especially when it comes to alternative metals to gold and platinum in wedding rings, despite not being a precious metal.
However, even though titanium is an excellent option for this type of jewelry, like other materials, there are several points that we must take into account before buying titanium rings. So we invite you to read on to find out if titanium rings are right for you.
What is titanium?
Titanium is a chemical element classified in the periodic table as a transition metal and that owes its name to the titans of Greek mythology.
It is also known throughout the world as one of the strongest metals and also one of the lightest. Without forgetting that it is also one of the most abundant metals in nature. List where it ranks ninth and thanks to which it is one of the most affordable.
Although its existence has been known for more than 200 years, its use in jewelry is quite recent. Its natural color is greyish white and the finish can be altered by some polishing and brushing methods to make it brighter. Visually, it can be used in jewelry as a substitute for more expensive white metals like platinum or white gold.
Titanium rings: its pros
There are many advantages that make titanium rings an excellent alternative to gold and platinum in wedding or engagement rings. While we’ve briefly touched on them already, here’s a more detailed look.
Titanium rings are affordable
Being less expensive, titanium rings are ideal for the budget-conscious couple who still want something beautiful and meaningful. To get an idea of cost, you can buy a high-quality ring for around $100 or less.
However, this of course depends on what other materials are combined with the titanium. Other materials such as gold, platinum or precious stones will be added to the final price of the ring. Having said that, titanium on its own is comparatively inexpensive.
They are highly resistant to corrosion
Titanium rings are not affected by sea water, nitrohydrochloric acid and chlorine (in water). Therefore, they are practical for those who regularly swim in the ocean or in chlorinated pools. This is in contrast to some other jewelry materials, such as silver, brass, and bronze, which are prone to tarnishing and other signs of deterioration.
Titanium rings are strong and durable
The durability of titanium is legendary, with the word titanium being synonymous with strength. It ranks 6 on the Mohs scale, which is much higher than gold (2.4 Mohs) or platinum (4 Mohs). Therefore, titanium rings cannot be scratched and marked as easily or as deeply as other metals. Which means a titanium wedding ring will look new for much longer.
Titanium rings are hypoallergenic
Titanium is a 100% biocompatible metal, which means the rings are perfectly safe for anyone to wear, including those with metal allergies. This is why it is also frequently used for surgical implants and piercing jewelry due to its hypoallergenic nature.
We can find titanium rings in other colors.
Its natural color ranges from gray to silver and is very similar in appearance to platinum, but the finish of the ring can also alter its appearance. For example, a high polish titanium ring looks very much like silver, while a sandblasted titanium ring will have a gunmetal gray color.
On the other hand, jewelers use many different proprietary methods to chemically alter the natural color of titanium. Thanks to which, titanium rings can be coated and anodized to create a wide variety of colors. This makes it distinctive and allows wedding rings made of titanium to really stand out from other bands.
Maintaining titanium rings is very simple.
Unlike other metals, titanium does not rust or tarnish, so it is virtually maintenance-free. In addition, its natural color does not require re-coating like white gold or frequent polishing like platinum. Likewise, although the metal can be scratched over time, it can be easily polished.
Titanium rings are extremely light
This is ideal if you don’t like the feel of a heavy, substantial ring on your finger. Depending on your point of view, this can be an advantage or a disadvantage.
Titanium rings: its cons
Design options are limited
For couples who want a more elaborate design, including gems and metal mixes, titanium wedding rings can be made with a gold, silver, or platinum inlay. Although, the labor cost to make this piece of jewelry is higher due to it and the fact that it is not a jeweler friendly material.
However, it will be difficult to find a wide variety of designs, as the metal is too difficult to work with. Which makes it difficult to craft titanium rings in intricate and delicate styles.
They are difficult to cut in case of emergencies
Although it is possible to cut a titanium ring in an emergency, special equipment may be required. In general, a few more passes with the saw may be required than other softer metals.
Can’t resize
Titanium is very difficult to resize and most jewelers won’t take the job. Some jewelers will size a titanium ring up, but not down. It can cost more than it’s worth to resize a titanium ring, so most people simply replace their ring if it doesn’t fit.