Tungsten Wedding Bands
T
UNGSTEN CARBIDE
The very high-tech tungsten carbide is one of the newest metals on the wedding ring market. Tungsten carbide is a somewhat unconventional metal in comparison to gold and platinum, but is nevertheless a very durable option for wedding rings. The industrial look of tungsten carbide tends to have a masculine appeal, although many styles are created to appeal to women as well. Tungsten carbide wedding rings continue to increase in popularity, it's strength and unique qualities capturing the interest of those looking for something a little out of the ordinary.
CREATING A TUNGSTEN CARBIDE WEDDING RING
Tungsten carbide rings are created in a very high-tech and extraordinary process. Tungsten (a natural element) and carbide powders are ground into a powder mixture which is then compressed with high pressure dies to form a ring blank. The blank is then fired at 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit to form a virtually indestructible and scratch proof ring. Each tungsten carbide ring is individually hand crafted using diamond tools and polished with a diamond compound to a shine that will last forever. The advanced technology necessary to create a tungsten carbide ring is one of the major factors that differentiates it from the traditional metals of gold or platinum, not it's scarcity.
TUNGSTEN QUALITIES
.Tungsten carbide is a very heavy, very durable and very hard metal with a rich, dark grey color. Because of it's hardness, tungsten carbide is more wear resistant than other metals - it will hold it's shape and shine longer than other metals, will not bend, and is the only metal that will stay permanently polished. Tungsten carbide is so strong that it's hardness is often compared to that of a diamond. This strength makes a tungsten carbide wedding band a good option for those individuals who work a lot with their hands, since it will be able to withstand harsh treatment and still keep it's good condition. In comparison to 18kt gold, tungsten carbide weighs about the same, but is about 10 times harder. The harder the material, the better resistance it has to being scratched. Another factor that is appealing about tungsten carbide is it's hypoallergenic nature. It is a great option for individuals with sensitive skin or those who are susceptible to metal allergic reactions. Tungsten carbide is very neutral to the body and will not irritate the skin or cause a pigment discoloration. The fact that tungsten carbide is unique also makes it very desirable in and of itself.
SIZING A TUNGSTEN CARBIDE WEDDING RING
While one of the benefits of a tungsten carbide wedding ring is it's strength and durability, it is also what results in it's inability to be sized. Tungsten carbide wedding rings can be ordered to whatever size you need, but once formed it is not able to be made smaller or larger than the original size.
SAFETY OF TUNGSTEN CARBIDE WEDDING RINGS
In an emergency, hospitals and emergency personnel are equipped to handle all situations, including removing rings that are increasing the chance of physical injury in an accident. Because of its extreme hardness, tungsten wedding rings can be removed for safety reasons, but not with standard ring cutters. They usually have to be removed by cracking them into pieces with standard vice grip-style locking pliers.
COST OF TUNGSTEN CARBIDE WEDDING RINGS
Tungsten wedding bands tend to be a bit more expensive than titanium rings but less expensive than gold or platinum. The price of tungsten carbide wedding rings can vary based on the style of ring chosen and whether or not the ring has inlays of gold or platinum or gemstones such as diamonds. Generally, a wedding band can average $500, but prices can range from $300 to $1500.
