Tungsten Rings
A new metal ring is available for purchase these days, and it’s made from a blend of tungsten and carbide. A tungsten carbide ring – also called a tungsten ring – is durable, scratch-resistant, and heavy. It is ten times stronger than 18k gold, five times stronger than steel, and four times stronger than titanium. It will not bend or dent with regular wear, unlike rings of other materials.
Originally used in industrial or military applications, tungsten has a reputation for being strong and long-lasting. It is used for machining, in ammunition, as studs in bicycle tires, and on the tips of trekking poles. Tungsten carbide is now used to make wedding bands because of its durability and appealing shine.
When it comes to tungsten carbide rings, they can be extremely brittle depending on their design. Rings that have a lot of inlays tend to be more prone to fracture because voids in the metal (where other materials are inlaid) cause weakness. Tapping a tungsten ring on a hard metal surface can result in breakage and it is best avoided.
One of the most appealing features of tungsten carbide jewellery is the shine factor. Once manufactured, a tungsten carbide ring – if meant to be shiny – is polished with a diamond polishing wheel. This results in a shine that will last for the entire life of the piece. The metal is so hard, it will not scratch or dull over time. The ring will look as shiny ten or twenty years after purchase as it did the day you bought it.
If you own a tungsten carbide wedding band, you should never use harsh chemicals on it, because this can cause unsightly spots. Wash it with mild soap and water, and dry it carefully. Ionic and ultrasonic cleaners should not be used. Never bang your ring on a hard metal surface, because this can cause your ring to fracture.