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Tips For Buying Titanium Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

By David Massey
Nov 5, 2009
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.

First off, you need to be aware that titanium looks different from other metals. While titanium can be polished to a very high sheen, it tends to be darker in color than other white metals such as gold and silver. In addition, titanium can be treated or coated to change the color; most often, the jewelry manufacturer will alter the color to a deep black. Since the colorization process only affects the surface of the metal, this allows for designs to be engraved in the metal that show brightly against the dark surface of the ring. Just be aware that, if you should purchase a black titanium wedding band, the surface can be scratched if the surface is damaged deeply enough.

In many instances titanium rings are set with precious stones, which usually requires that the setting is made from some other metal like platinum or gold that is more malleable and easier to work. More than just making the setting for the stone easier to work with, this also allows the jewelry designer to create intricate and stunning design using both metals, which is commonly known as the two-tone style. But, these two-tone rings can end up costing a bit more than a ring that uses titanium alone, because rings that contain both titanium and precious metals can be much harder to design and craft.

Ring sizing can be a problem when you choose titanium, so know your exact ring size beforehand, especially when ordering from an online retailer. Local jewelers typically are unable to size titanium rings, so the most common practice is to send the ring back in for a replacement in the correct size. So, should your ring ever need to be cut off - for example, if you injured your hand and swelling caused the ring to be stuck on your finger - unfortunately you will likely have to replace your ring with a brand new one.

While titanium does not tarnish or discolor under normal wear, it can be scratched if subjected to hard use. While still a popular choice for people who work with their hands all day long, after time a titanium ring will begin to show signs of wear. Even so, this is not a problem since titanium is easily polished. If your ring begins to show signs of wear, simply take it to any jeweler and they'll have it looking brand new in no time.

Overall, titanium rings offer stylishness, durability, practicality, and timeless beauty. This is the reason why more and more couples are purchasing titanium bands as a first choice in wedding and engagement jewelry, instead of choosing titanium as an alternative metal. But whatever your reason for buying titanium jewelry, your ring is sure to last you a lifetime.
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