Comparing Titanium & Tungsten Rings

Titanium and tungsten carbide are materials that are used in the fabrication of wedding rings. There are benefits and considerations linked with both types of ring materials. Consider all aspects before making a purchase.

Properties

Both materials used in the construction of rings are very hard, but tungsten carbide is harder; only a diamond can scratch a tungsten carbide ring. In terms of weight, titanium is 43 percent lighter than stainless steel, while tungsten carbide is 90 percent heavier, according to Titanium Kay.

Cost

A tungsten carbide ring will cost more than a titanium ring, due to high production costs. Tungsten carbide can only be manipulated to form rings in temperatures exceeding 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Facts

Tungsten carbide is much less ductile than titanium. Under excessive pressure, a tungsten carbide ring will fracture or shatter into several pieces, whereas a titanium ring will bend. Some people may experience allergic reactions while wearing tungsten carbide rings. New Jersey's Department of Health & Senior Services claims that exposure to tungsten carbide can cause lung problems.

References

• Titanium Kay: Titanium and Tungsten Wedding Rings Comparison
• NJ Department of Health & Senior Services: Working With Tungsten Carbide
• Los Alamos National Labs: Titanium
• Hydro Carbide Inc.: Properties of Tungsten Carbide