Ring shopping. Some people love it some people loathe it.
Buying an engagement ring and preparing for the proposal is a crazy – yet exciting – time and it’s easy to get caught up in the romance. But an engagement ring usually carries quite a weighty price tag, so you want to make sure that you get it just right.
Whether you’re scouting out rings together or doing it solo, as a surprise, there are countless factors to think about – from the diamond shape to the carat and ring size – not to mention the metal for the band and your budget.
It’s worth noting that modern jewellery is taking the place of traditional pieces – and with good reason. Although titanium is a metal that is heavily relied on by industries, such as aerospace, automotive and medical, it’s valued for its durability, modern aesthetic and comfort. It’s also more affordable than traditional metals, such as yellow gold, white gold, silver and platinum, but slightly more expensive than stainless steel.
In today’s blog, we’re looking at how you decide between a ring that’s made from titanium sheets and one that’s made from stainless steel. So, read on to find out more.
Strength
Titanium rings first hit the market in the 1900s and remain a popular choice for the bride and/or groom today. Not surprising when they embody modernity, taste and trendiness.
Made from titanium sheets, these rings are approximately twice as strong as their stainless steel counterparts which means they last longer. However, titanium can scratch and become dull, if not polished regularly.
Shine
Stainless steel is almost scratch-resistant, meaning you can go about your daily life – worry-free. There’s also a chance that you’ll be able to hand it down, unblemished, to future generations. To maintain its lustre and newness, simply polish it intermittently.
However, it’s important to keep in mind, stainless steel does tend to rust when exposed to moisture (something titanium doesn’t do). So, if you’re pursuing a stainless steel wedding band, we’d always suggest that you remove it when working out, swimming or participating in other water sports, otherwise, it could turn slightly brown.
Comfort
As it’s lightweight, titanium is a very comfortable wedding ring choice – especially for individuals who are not used to wearing a lot of jewellery. The great thing about being so lightweight is that jewellery makers won’t need anywhere near as many titanium sheets than they would stainless steel, potentially keeping manufacturing costs to a minimum.
If you’re allergic or sensitive to chemicals, fabrics, metals and other elements, shopping for jewellery can be arduous. You want something you can wear daily without any problems. The great news is, both titanium and stainless steel are kind to skin (hypoallergenic), so no need to worry about annoying irritations.
Cost
It may seem like the most obvious thing in the world, but make sure you, and your significant other, both get your fingers properly measured. After all, the last thing you want to do is go to the expense of buying a ring that cuts off your circulation or – even worse – falls off your finger. It should feel snug yet comfy.
If you’re leaning towards a delicate design with a cheaper price tag, you might want to look at a stainless steel ring. But, if money is no object, and you’re looking for ‘the perfect ring’, perhaps go down the route of finding a titanium ring.
Naturally, added features – such as stones and engraving – will alter the price, regardless of the metal.
Still struggling to decide?
You’re not alone. Stainless steel and titanium are both worthy options for wedding bands and other fashion rings. Our best advice to you would be to carefully assess the properties of each metal and choose the one that best agrees with your needs.
If you’re looking for a ring that is stylish and comfortable, easy to care for and maintains its appearance for a lifetime, then a titanium ring ticks all the right boxes for you. Whereas, if you want something that embodies delicacy and sparkle, but can’t afford to spend huge amounts, try stainless steel.
If you have any questions about titanium rings, or you’re a jewellery maker and would like some more information about our titanium sheets, you’re welcome to contact us at any time. Simply call Ti-Tek today on 0121 382 4121 or drop us an email at info@titek.co.uk, and we’ll get back to you.