6 Popular Ring Metals

The most popular ring metals are silver and gold, but there are a variety of other choices that can help to create the more distinct ring. The ring metal can vary in relation to the price range, strength and hues. Here are six of the most used ring metals:

Yellow gold

One of the most traditional colors for the ring is yellow gold and appreciated for its long-term durability. This material is able to resist rust, corrosion and won't discolor. Most of the rings are made with 18k or 14k gold. The higher the gold content the richer the color of the ring. A pure 24k gold is less common because gold on its own can be too soft to use as a ring. Most rings are combined with other metals such as nickel.

Rose gold

Rings in rose gold are made with 14k or 18k gold and given a pretty pink-tint. The extra pink tint is added by including copper alloy with the greater amount of copper resulting in a pinker hue. This makes it easy to customize the look to create the unique and feminine look.

White gold

While gold is similar to yellow gold and manufactured using 14k or 18k gold. The whiteness of the metal is achieved by including several alloys and coating the ring with a fine layer of white metal like rhodium. This rhodium isn't the hardest wearing and has the potential to wear away over time. The use of white gold is great for those that want the platinum look, but at a much more affordable price.

Platinum

Platinum makes a popular alternative metal to white gold. It is appreciated for providing a significantly more durable material, but it also costs more. This metal is rated at 95% hypoallergenic and pure and will not lose metal in the event of being scratched. It is easily cleaned or buffed to leave it looking like new. This metal can develop a satin sheen over time, which is removed by polishing or can be left in place.

Palladium

Palladium is much like platinum and is hypoallergenic and won't tarnish. However, it is a much more cost-effective option and the metal appears a darker shade of gray. The cost of rings in palladium is quite similar to white gold.

Titanium

Titanium has a polished black or a cool gray finish that is a popular choice in men's rings. This metal is practically weightless, hypoallergenic and corrosion-resistant. Titanium is a great choice for the outdoors person. One negative of this type of ring is the inability to resize.