About Titanium Wedding Bands for Men

Titanium wedding bands are a popular choice for modern grooms. Smooth to the touch and lighter in weight than platinum or gold, the color of a titanium wedding band is similar in the appearance of brushed platinum or white gold. If you are looking for an affordable wedding ring, consider a titanium wedding band for its exquisite beauty and unmistakable value.

Significance

Titanium, in its raw form, is medium-gray in color. The strength of titanium is comparable to steel and seven times stronger than platinum. An industrial metal alloy, polished titanium has the sheen and attractive properties of platinum and white gold.
Men's titanium wedding bands are widely available in fine jewelry stores, on the Internet and in stores like Wal-Mart and Target. In 2009, prices for men's titanium wedding bands generally range from $59 to $599.

Benefits

Titanium's hypoallergenic properties make the metal a suitable choice for people with sensitive skin. Titanium does not react with the epidermis, resists tarnishing and does not change color due to oxidation or long-term wear.

Considerations

Due to the composition of the metal, titanium wedding rings are hard to shape and mold. If you are designing a made-to-order ring, ensure that your ring measurements are accurate. If sizing is necessary, titanium rings are shaped into a larger size by shaving the inside of the ring. However, titanium wedding bands cannot be reduced to a smaller ring size.
Not all jewelers have the necessary tools to add stones, engrave or customize titanium wedding bands. If you are considering adding a few diamonds or precious stones to your titanium wedding band, ask your jewelry about his ability to customize your ring.

Expert Insight

There are two distinct grades of titanium alloy: commercially pure and chemically pure. Titanium wedding bands are constructed from commercially pure or (CP) grade titanium. Commercially pure rings are graded from numbers 1 to 4. Grade 1 titanium represents the softest grade, while grade 4 is the hardest. The more oxygen added to the metal, the higher the grade and strength of the ring. The grade of titanium used in men's wedding bands and its finish determine the scratch resistant properties of the ring.

Misconceptions

Although the metal is extremely hard and resistant to corrosives, titanium is not immune to scratches, dents and scrapes. Abrasive materials like sandpaper can nick lower grade titanium rings. Despite rumors that titanium rings are impervious to cutting, in the event of an emergency or an unforeseen trip to the hospital, a man's titanium wedding band can be removed.

Resources

• Ehow - Facts About Titanium
• Mineral Institute Facts About Titanium
• Titanium Wedding Rings