Engagement Ring Metal Types
Guide to Engagement Ring Metals
Both main elements of engagement rings, the metal and the gemstone, require much consideration, as there are a myriad of options available. The metal the ring is made of has far-reaching effects on its aesthetic and how well it handles everyday situations. Here are the most common engagement ring metals and why you should consider them.
White Gold
White gold is an alloy of pure gold and metals with a silvery sheen like rhodium and nickel. This gives the metal its bright, sophisticated hue. It also looks similar, if not almost identical, to platinum at a fraction of the cost. As such, it is perfect for people with a luxurious taste without the budget to match. However, it does require more maintenance than platinum and must be taken to a jeweler periodically.
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold is what most people think of when they imagine gold. This metal is the very symbol of luxury, wealth, and prosperity. For a warm and spectacular look, yellow gold is difficult to beat. It is truly timeless, classic, and gorgeous. For engagement rings, yellow gold complements the diamond’s radiance and allows it to stand out more than lighter colors. High carat gold tends to have a richer color and shine, although it is more expensive and more delicate.
Rose Gold
Rose gold is a combination of gold and copper, which creates a marvelous pink hue. It exudes femininity and is excellent for anyone who seeks a romantic aesthetic. This fashionable material is stronger than other gold varieties as well, owing to the copper used in its makeup. It is easy to fall head over heels for this enchanting metal. Like yellow gold, it accentuates diamonds exquisitely and looks lovely with every skin tone.
Platinum
Beloved for its cool, bright color, platinum is valuable and luxurious. Its white-gray hue provides a sophisticated, classic elegance. It is also among the most expensive metals. This is due to the fact that platinum is strong, so rings with this material do not need to be cut with other substances. Unlike white gold, platinum does not tarnish easily and will not need to be redipped in rhodium. Incredibly strong, platinum rings will last forever.
Mixed Metal
Some engagement rings feature more than one metal. Most often this is to provide a beautiful contrast between white gold or platinum with rose or yellow gold. These rings are bold and engaging as they possess a one-of-a-kind look, attracting attention with an inviting aesthetic. People with a more unorthodox style and a penchant for the unique may prefer an engagement ring with mixed metals.
