Choosing the Right Metal for Your Scottsdale Engagement Ring

​

When it comes to selecting an engagement ring, some women have envisioned their dream ring since childhood, while others begin contemplating it when the time to shop for one arrives. Regardless of when you start considering your engagement ring, there are numerous factors to take into Scottsdale engagement rings . One crucial decision you'll need to make is the choice of metal, as it forms the foundation of the most significant ring you'll ever wear.

Let's take a quick refresher on the different types of metals available for engagement rings. While it may seem like a straightforward decision, the metal you choose plays a vital role in the overall aesthetics and durability of your ring.

Gold has long been the classic and timeless choice for engagement rings. However, it's essential to note that gold comes in various varieties, each with different alloys mixed in, resulting in slight variations in color. This might initially cause some confusion, as you'll need to consider gold purity alongside the different alloys.

Gold purity is measured in karats, with 24 karats representing pure gold. However, pure gold is too soft for jewelry and lacks the necessary durability to withstand everyday wear. Alloys are added to gold to increase its hardness and longevity. For engagement rings meant to be worn daily, 14 and 18 karat gold are popular choices as they can withstand the rigors of daily use.

White gold is created by combining pure gold with palladium and silver or nickel, copper, and zinc. It's not uncommon to find white gold rings with rhodium plating, which enhances their strength and whiteness. White gold offers a similar color to platinum but at a more affordable price point.

Yellow gold represents the traditional gold color, with added nickel and silver for enhanced durability. These metals contribute subtle hints of color, adding to the beauty of the piece.

Rose gold, an old-fashioned gold color, has experienced a resurgence in popularity. The reddish hue is achieved by adding copper to the gold, with a deeper red color resulting from a higher copper content. Many women find that rose gold complements their natural skin tone beautifully. Although you may perceive rose gold as a passing trend, it has stood the test of time; my great grandmother's rose gold wedding band remains stunning to this day.

Platinum boasts a soft white hue that beautifully complements and accentuates gemstones, particularly diamonds. Platinum is rarer than gold, making jewelry pieces crafted from it more valuable and expensive. As a result, it may be beyond reach for a first engagement ring. However, as the years pass and your financial situation stabilizes, platinum becomes a viable option for upgrading and updating your wedding ring.

Platinum is susceptible to scratching, especially with daily wear, which can diminish its luster over time. While some individuals appreciate the patina that develops on the surface, others prefer periodic polishing to maintain its original shine. Interestingly, unlike most materials, platinum actually strengthens as it gets scratched.

Occasionally, individuals opt for titanium wedding bands due to their ability to withstand heavy-duty wear and tear. These bands are typically plain and simple but can be dressed up for special occasions with anniversary bands or ring guards. Alternatively, some people choose to have two different rings: one for everyday work wear and another for evening events.

Sterling silver is a popular choice for engagement rings due to its affordability. However, it tarnishes quickly and is prone to scratching, making it less suitable for individuals engaged in hands-on work. While a sterling silver ring can last a lifetime for most people, others may need to consider replacing it later in life if significant wear occurs. Additionally, sterling silver often requires more frequent polishing compared to other metals to maintain its sparkle.

Purchasing an engagement ring is a remarkable experience that marks the beginning of a lifetime of love shared between two individuals. While there are many decisions to be made along the way to finding the perfect engagement ring, choosing the metal that suits your preferences is an excellent starting point.

For over 50 years, E. D. Marshall Jewelers has been assisting couples in selecting engagement and wedding rings. As a leading provider of Scottsdale engagement rings, they are here to guide you when the time is right.