How to Choose the Perfect Metal for Your Engagement Ring
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
When shopping for an engagement ring, many couples take great care to find the perfect diamond or gemstone to showcase their love and commitment. They pay special attention to the four Cs of diamond buying, the overall ring style, and the setting that will keep that symbolic stone secure. But what about the ring’s metal? What engagement ring metal types are available, and which may be best for your engagement ring?
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- Why Metal Matters
- Top Metal Types
- Yellow Gold
- White Gold
- Rose Gold
- Palladium
- Platinum
- Mixed or Two-Tone Gold
- Choosing Your Best Metal
Why Metal Matters
The metal of an engagement or wedding ring ought to be durable to be worn for many years and through many different activities and conditions. An astutely chosen metal can enhance a diamond or gemstone’s color and clarity, while a poorly chosen metal might make the stone seem duller or smaller than it truly is.
An engagement ring’s metal type ought to match the wearer’s personal style and fashionable flair, such as coordinating with other favorite jewelry pieces that may be worn frequently. Some individuals even need to consider potential allergic reactions to different metals to be sure and choose one that won’t cause discomfort. Finally, the metal of an engagement or wedding ring can also dramatically impact the ring’s price, and budget-conscious couples may want to consider the cost differences between different metal types.
Top Metal Types
There are many different metals that can be used in engagement rings. Understanding the differences between the most familiar metals and more unusual choices can help couples choose the perfect metal for their most perfect ring.
1. Yellow Gold
This classic, warm-toned metal is the most common and popular choice for engagement rings. Available in different karat alloys from 10-18 karats, yellow gold will not corrode, rust, or tarnish, providing long-lasting beauty to a timeless ring. Gold is soft enough to be malleable for more intricate ring designs, but is still durable for a lifetime of loving wear.
2. White Gold
More neutral than yellow gold, white gold is just as durable and beloved but offers a cool tone that can enhance a diamond’s color and clarity. White gold may need to be replated in its lifetime, however, as it will gradually yellow with age. Some couples enjoy this change that shows the longevity of their relationship, but other couples prefer a ring with a stable color.
3. Rose gold
An alloy of yellow gold and copper, rose gold has a pinkish or reddish hue that adds a romantic blush to any ring design. This is a warm-toned metal with a distinctive look, but may not work with every skin tone or gemstone color.
4. Palladium
A silver-white natural ore, palladium will not tarnish and has naturally hypoallergenic properties. It is similar in appearance to platinum but is not as dense, which makes it generally less expensive and more budget-friendly.
5. Platinum
One of the more popular engagement ring metal types, platinum has a bright, cool luster that can greatly enhance any stone it surrounds and will retain its color throughout its lifetime. This natural metal is denser than most alloys, giving it greater strength and durability for a lifetime of wear. Platinum is also naturally hypoallergenic.
6. Mixed or Two-Tone Gold
Mixed gold, a stunning blend of various gold tones, offers a unique and versatile option for engagement rings. Combining white, yellow, and rose gold, this metal brings together the best of all worlds, creating a distinctive and eye-catching look. Available in different karat alloys from 10-18 karats, mixed gold maintains the strength and durability needed for a lifetime of wear while allowing for intricate and creative ring.
Choosing Your Best Metal
With so many different choices of engagement ring metal types, couples should carefully consider which metals best suit their style, needs, and budget. There is no one perfect metal suitable for every engagement ring, and some couples even opt for mixed-metal rings to take advantage of the flair that different metals create together. Whichever metal you choose, you can create the ideal engagement ring to symbolize your relationship and the life you will build together for many happy anniversaries.
Suzanne Sachs
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