When it comes wedding rings, the type of metal you choose will be a major influence in style, function, and cost. This guide to ring metals will help you make the choice that's right for you.
Platinum
Great Because...
It's valuable - King Louis declared platinum the only metal fit for a king, need we say more?
It's durable - platinum is resistant to tarnish and great for holding prong settings
It's hypoallergenic - platinum is 90-95% pure and won't irritate the skin
The Downside...
It's expensive - it's rare, making it more price sensitive
It's malleable - platinum nicks and scratches easily; however, since no metal is lost - it can be buffed to look good as new.
Gold
Great Because...
It's traditional - gold has withstood the test of time to be the most common wedding ring metal
It's less expensive - gold is more abundant than platinum, making it more affordable
The Downside...
It's not as pure - gold is always mixed with metal alloys (copper, silver, nickel) to make it stronger. The lower the karat, the higher the percentage of other metals.
It's soft - making it susceptible to denting. The higher the karat, the more pure - and therefore softer - it is. If you're highly active and not planning to purchase platinum, you may want to consider a lower karat gold.
It's not as pure - gold is always mixed with metal alloys (copper, silver, nickel) to make it stronger. The lower the karat, the higher the percentage of other metals.
It can irritate skin - metal alloys can cause allergic reactions
Titanium
Great Because...
It's hypoallergenic
It's strong - three times stronger than steel
It's inexpensive
The Downside...
It can't be resized
Silver
Great Because...
It's the least expensive precious metal
The Downside...
It's extremely soft - even when combined with other metals, it shows wear over time
It can irritate skin - usually combined with nickel to make it stronger, silver can cause skin irritations.
Mix it Up
Freaking out because he likes yellow gold and you like platinum? Relax, there's no rule that your bands have to match. What matters is that both of you have a ring you'll enjoy wearing.
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Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a comprehensive wedding planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, along with articles, expert advice, checklists and photo galleries to lead brides through every step of the planning process.
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