Tips On Buying Titanium Wedding Bands And Engagement Rings
Once only used in manufacturing, aircraft, and industrial applications, in recent years titanium has become a popular material used to craft all kinds of jewelry items. Known for being hypoallergenic, lightweight, and tough, titanium is quickly growing in popularity among consumers who are looking for style and value. Watches, rings, earrings, bracelets, cuff links, and even money clips are made from titanium, with surprisingly attractive results. But beyond doubt the most commonly sold titanium jewelry items are titanium wedding bands. If you’re considering purchasing a titanium ring for your upcoming nuptials, there are a few things you should know about titanium before you go shopping.
For starters, you should know that titanium has a different look than other metals. Titanium can easily be polished to a very high luster; however it is quite a bit darker than more commonly known precious white metals such as white gold, platinum, and silver. Since the material is so hard and durable, it can also be heat-treated or anodized to change the color; the most popular choice for color-treatment of titanium jewelry is charcoal black. This process only affects the surface material, which allows the jewelry designer to create deep engravings that stand out in stark contrast to the darker surrounding surface of the ring. But remember if you buy a black titanium wedding band, if you’re really hard on your jewelry you can scratch the surface.
If you get a titanium engagement ring that is set with a diamond or other precious stone, chances are good that the setting will be made from another type of metal that is more malleable and easier to work with, such as platinum or gold. This allows the jeweler to create unique designs by playing off the different tones and hues of the two metals, resulting in what is commonly known as a “two-tone” design. Just be aware that the price associated with these types of rings is a bit higher, since it can be very difficult to work with rings that contain titanium and a precious metal.
Titanium rings cannot be stretched or cut and sized like gold, silver, and platinum jewelry. If you buy the wrong size, you are going to need to take it back to the retailer to exchange it for the correct size. Obviously, this can present a problem when you’re operating on a deadline as most brides and grooms are, so be sure you know your exact ring size if you order from an online retailer. And, one last note; if your titanium ring is ever cut off, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Titanium is extremely durable and lightweight, and it resists tarnishing and discoloration much better than other white metals. However, it can be scratched when subjected to extreme abuse. If you have a job where you work with your hands all day, it’s probably best that you remove your titanium ring while working. The good new is that, if you scratch your ring, any jeweler can buff it out with a little work on a high-speed buffer wheel.
So, know you now the benefits of titanium – beauty, durability, and practicality. For these reasons, more and more brides and grooms are choosing titanium for their engagement rings and wedding bands over more traditional metals. Without a doubt, titanium offers the discerning shopper the satisfaction of owning a unique and lasting ring that will last for generations.
Want to find out more about titanium wedding rings? Visit http://www.titaniumimpressions.com/ to find the perfect titanium wedding ring for your needs.
