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Courtesy of Isabella / Design by Michela Buttignol
When you think of wedding bands, gold or platinum most likely comes to mind. However, an increasingly popular material on the market is neither of theseandhappens to be far more affordable than both. If you’re on the hunt for something that’s bold and unique, tungsten carbide might be ideal.
What Is Tungsten Carbide?
Tungsten carbide is the result of combining or alloying carbon with tungsten, hard and dense metal with a high melting point. Tungsten carbide is a deep gray color in its untreated, natural state, but it can be polished, sandblasted, or carved to give it a wide range of finishing aesthetics.
“The best quality tungsten carbide rings include at least 80 percent tungsten,” says Blue Nile senior merchandiser Roxanna Rector. “This combination makes rings that are strong, hypoallergenic, tarnish-resistant, and that will maintain their polish for a lifetime.”
Meet the Expert
- Roxanna Rector is the Senior Buyer for engagement and bridal rings at Blue Nile.
Ready to learn more about tungsten carbide rings? Read on to learn about the pros and cons of these ring metals and how to care for one.
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Pros and Cons of Tungsten Carbide Rings
Tungsten carbide rings have a lot going for them. These affordable wedding bands (guidance) are significantly cheaper than gold or platinum, and they are hypoallergenic and scratch and tarnish resistant. so it will not give you a ring rash. Tungsten carbide is a hard, durable material that will remain polished virtually forever.Of course, there are some shortcomings that coincide with purchasing a tungsten carbide ring. For starters, there’s a chance your supplier may be offering a ring with a purity level that is lower than 80 percent. Second, “because of its natural hardness properties, the ring is susceptible to cracking if dropped on a hard surface like cement or marble,” Rector notes.
And because tungsten isn’t malleable like gold, it can’t be resized. It’s also worth noting that tungsten carbide rings are typically heavy—though Rector says they are a comparable weight to platinum—which can be a plus or minus depending on your preference.
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What to Look for in a Tungsten Carbide Ring
As previously noted, if you’re buying a tungsten carbide ring it’s important to find one that’s at least 80 percent tungsten.
- How can I tell if the ring is high quality? “At this purity, it is 10x harder than 18k gold and has a weight that’s substantial and luxurious, similar to platinum rings,“ Rector says. Sometimes sellers will use an expensive filler in place of tungsten, causing the value and integrity of the ring to diminish.
- Can tungsten carbide rings be resized? Because tungsten carbide rings are incredibly hard, they cannot be resized. “Consider buying your regular size as well as a half size up and keep the one that fits the best,” she notes. “If you buy a ring 6mm or wider, you may need a slightly larger size than what a ring sizer will tell you due to how much of your finger the ring will cover.”
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How to Care for a Tungsten Carbide Ring
Because tungsten carbide rings are so durable, they require little to no maintenance. “The most important way to care for Tungsten rings is to ensure you don’t drop them on hard surfaces such as marble or cement, as they can crack and be difficult to repair,” Rector says.
Ahead, scroll through 20 sleek and modern tungsten carbide wedding rings.
01of 20
Blue Nile Comfort Fit Wedding Band
Courtesy of Blue Nile
Buy on Bluenile.com
This tungsten carbide is a sleek and industrial option for the modern bridal aesthetic. The minimalistic design is best for any groom.
02of 20
Thorsten Rings HONOR Gold Plated Tungsten Beveled Ring
Courtesy of Thorsten Rings
Buy on Thorstenrings.com
The gold brushed finish on this 1.6mm ring gives it an elevated finish. Plus, the beveled edges add a subtly unique touch of detail.
03of 20
Little King Jewelry Isabella Domed White Tungsten Wedding Band
Courtesy of Little King Jewelry
Buy on Littlekingjewelry.com
Add a bit of sparkle to your Tungsten Carbide ring with this sleek yet striking piece. Featuring three simple diamonds, you simply can't go wrong with a band like this.
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Zales Triton Comfort Fit Tungsten Wedding Band
Courtesy of Zales
Buy on Zales.com
As the adage goes, sometimes less is more. This sleek and slender band is still sophisticated without too many design details.
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Gaboni Jewelers MIDA Round Black Tungsten Wedding Band
Courtesy of Gaboni Jewelers
Buy on Gabonijewelers.com
There’s something oh-so-cool about a black band, no? Dark and moody, this ring has an edgy aesthetic.
06of 20
Little King Jewelry Sol Traditional Domed Rose Gold Plated Tungsten Wedding Band
Courtesy of Little King Jewelry
Buy on Littlekingjewelry.com
Rose gold is always a good idea for a wedding band. This selection from Little King Jewelers has gold plated tungsten for exceptional durability and paired with Little King's craftsmanship.
07of 20
Lovemark Black Ion-Plated Tungsten Carbide Men's Wedding Band
Courtesy of Kohl's
Buy on Kohls.com
This bold ring offers a satin and polished finish that makes the band look like matte. Edgy and sleek, a piece like this is bound to make a strong statement.
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Blue Nile Comfort Fit Gray Wedding Band
Courtesy of Blue Nile
Buy on Bluenile.com
If shiny metals aren’t your thing, this gray-hued Tungsten ring may fit the bill. The comfort design offers a seamless fit while exuding an industrial and masculine look.
09of 20
Little King Jewelry Samara Tungsten Wedding Band with Ash Wood Inlay
Courtesy of Little King Jewelry
Buy on Littlekingjewelry.com
If you’re searching for a non-traditional ring for men, then a light wood inlay is a unique option. This band fuses ash wood on top of the tungsten, which creates a contrasting balance between the two materials.
10of 20
Yorks Jewelry Design Black Tungsten Wedding Band
Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy
This band is crafted with comfort in mind. The band is easy to wear thanks to its extensive durability and protection against shipping and scratching. The ring is completed with a matte finish.
11of 20
Kay Jewelers 6mm Wedding Band Tungsten Carbide
Courtesy of Kay Jewelers
Buy on Kay.com
Although there are no stones on this band, it's sure to shine. The contemporary fit of this ring makes the design look sleek and modern.
12of 20
Triton Jewelry Tungsten Carbide Ring
Courtesy of Triton Jewelry
Buy on Tritonjewelry.com
Do you love the look of yellow gold? Then, this band is for you. Plated with a satin finish, this band made of tungsten carbide has a stunning design with impeccable damage resistance. The step edge gives the ring sophisticated detail.
13of 20
James Allen White Tungsten Carbide Bright Step Band
Courtesy of James Allen
Buy on Jamesallen.com
This band has white tungsten carbide, which gives it a timeless and classic look. Aside from the impeccable design details, this ring is crafted with technology in mind—the band contains 85% tungsten carbide—making it a high-quality ring.
14of 20
Jared 8mm Wedding Band Tungsten Carbide Black PVD
Courtesy of Jared
Buy on Jared.com
Simplicity doesn't equal boring. This band with a black matte finish is bold and distinct. Sleek and modern, a piece like this is still eye-catching.
15of 20
Modern Gents Trading Co. The Elite Ring
Courtesy of Modern Gents Trading Co.
Buy on Modgents.com
As its name suggests, this ring looks elite. Rose gold breaks up the dark tungsten color and adds a warm glow to the ring. The band is thicker to add a comfortable fit.
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JewelryByFordos Meteorite Titanium Wedding Ring
Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy
This tungsten ring is made to imitate a meteorite. Instead of just a simple tungsten ring, opt for a ring with special textured details like this.
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Larson Jewelers Waterford Beveled Diamond Tungsten Wedding Band
Courtesy of Larson Jewelers
Buy on Larsonjewelers.com
For extra shine, choose a band that has a stone. This .06 carat round-cut diamond band pairs nicely with the white gold bezel on the ring. The best feature of the band? Although it's lighter in color, it won't show scratches thanks to the tungsten carbide's natural durability.
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Larson Jewelers Samuel Satin Finish Tungsten Carbide Ring
Courtesy of Larson Jewelers
Buy on Larsonjewelers.com
If one stone isn't enough for you, then give this ring a look. Instead of one stone, the band has three 0.03 ct round-cut white diamonds that complement the satin finish.
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Gaboni Jewelers VICO Black Men's Tungsten Wedding Ring
Courtesy of Gaboni Jewelers
Buy on Gabonijewelers.com
This ring is full of focal points. The center of the band has intricate details like a stainless steel finish center that is embellished with cubic zirconium diamonds. The beveled edges elevate the ring to look like a high polished and elegant band.
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Angara Comfort Fit Tungsten Carbide Men's Beveled Wedding Band
Courtesy of Angara
Buy on Angara.com
With a focus on fit, this tungsten carbide ring is not only comfortable, but it offers an unforgettable look. Featuring a double beveled design, this 8mm band makes a unique statement.
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