Every week, without fail, Scott and I get at least one couple coming in for custom wedding rings to our store, Scott’s Custom Jewelers in Columbus, inquiring about “alternative metal.”

They usually have bought a beautiful diamond engagement ring and custom band for the bride in gold, palladium or platinum, and it’s been a lovely experience for all of us. Then they start on the groom-to-be’s ring, and the conversation turns to titanium. Or tungsten carbide. Or even carbon fiber. WTFlip?

Now, we have six kids.  We know about staying within a budget, counting pennies, thriftiness.  We get it.  But these bands aren’t jewelry metals.  My dad has a tool and die company and he uses these metals to cut steel for car part molds!

Here’s some background on why titanium has become a popular choice for men’s wedding bands lately.  We can blame the economy and the Great Recession of ’08.

The Rise of Alternative Metals in Men’s Wedding Bands

When the economy started to falter in 2009, gold prices began to rise.  Like a lot.  It was a shock to everyone, even those of us in the jewelry industry. 

BUT, if you look at where gold was at per ounce back in 2000, and take into account inflation, you would see that gold was actually very undervalued. It did need to be adjusted, but that didn’t make the rise in price any easier to take. 

The increase in the gold market was sudden, and scared the heck out of everyone. 

Soooo, the jewelry manufacturers quickly came up with a plan, and that meant finding an alternative material for wedding rings.  Men’s rings are big and heavier than most women’s rings, so they needed a lot more material. 

Enter titanium, tungsten carbide, cobalt, wood (really – that’s going to look good all splintered up when you washed your hands!) and even ceramic.  Yep they’re cheap, both to make and to sell.  They literally cost pennies to manufacture, and sell for between $100 to $300. 

And with all of those cool styles, they did appeal to the fashionistas in all of us.

The Drawbacks of Alternative Metals

None of these materials are sizeable.  And there’s not a lot of grooms who still wear the same size band after 10 years of home cooking!  So, they become disposable.  The symbol of your marriage and undying love is now in the trash can.

And that’s the really sad part.  Every day, we work with our customer’s recreating new, beautiful jewelry from items that they’ve inherited from loved ones. 

We have refurbished grandpa’s wedding band into a gorgeous pendant, or even just refinished and restyled them as new wedding bands for the next generation.  It’s amazing what we can do with heirloom jewelry!

And, another little know fact about some of these metals:  If a guy has a finger injury, falls, or works in an industry with tools, most of these rings CAN NOT BE CUT OFF IN AN EMERGENCY! 

Yes, that’s right.  Most hospitals and ambulances do not carry tool cutters for cobalt and tungsten carbide.  That’s because they’re not cutable.  The only way to get them off your finger is to hit it with a sledge hammer!  And I’m betting that wouldn’t be comfortable.

This brings me to another interesting characteristic about some of these metals.  One good hit on a granite counter and the ring explodes—and it’s not fixable, either. 

Precious Metals: A Timeless Choice

So, the moral of the story?  If you’re going for budget on a ring, please consider only using precious metals like sterling silver, or go for a thinner style and choose gold (white, rose and yellow). 

These materials not only symbolize your enduring love but also offer the flexibility to be resized or repurposed in the future. At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we specialize in creating custom designs that fit your style and budget.

There are ways to keep the price down. And in fact, the price of gold IS down from what it was a few years ago. We at Scott’s Custom Jewelers can work with you to give you the style you want, at a price you can live with!

Titanium, Tungsten Carbide, and Cobalt Wedding Rings: FAQs

Why are alternative metals popular for men’s rings?

The rise in gold prices during the 2008 recession led to the popularity of alternative metals, which are cheaper to manufacture and sell.

Are there downsides to choosing alternative metals for wedding bands?

Yes, alternative metals cannot be resized, making them less practical for long-term wear. Additionally, many of these metals cannot be cut off in an emergency, posing safety risks.

What are the benefits of choosing precious metals over alternative metals?

Precious metals like gold, platinum, and palladium can be resized and repurposed, making them a more enduring choice for wedding bands. They also carry traditional value and can be passed down through generations.

Can alternative metals be as durable as precious metals?

While alternative metals like tungsten carbide are extremely hard and durable, they can shatter upon impact and are not as versatile as precious metals, which can be repaired and resized.

Is it possible to find budget-friendly options in precious metals?

Yes, you can opt for a thinner band or choose sterling silver as a more affordable option without compromising on the quality and longevity of the ring.

What should I consider when choosing a metal for a wedding band?

Consider long-term wearability, the ability to resize, safety concerns in emergencies, and whether the material aligns with the sentimental value you want your wedding band to hold.

Choose Scott’s Custom Jewelers For Your Wedding Band

Choosing the right metal for your wedding band is a crucial decision. At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we guide you through the options, ensuring you get a band that’s both stylish and practical.

With precious metals, your ring will be a lasting symbol of your marriage, capable of being cherished for generations to come. Book a consultation today and let’s start customizing your forever ring!