Couples who have chosen to purchase Celtic wedding bands are just at the beginning of the decision making process. The first step is to consider which alloy they want their ring to be made of. With many options to choose from, we will look at four popular choices. First, we will look at traditional yellow gold. Second, we will learn about white gold and how it differs from yellow gold. Third, we will consider the strength of titanium. Finally we will look at Tungsten carbide as a ring choice. Ring shoppers will want to acquaint themselves with many materials to ensure they choose the one that fits their needs best.

Yellow gold is traditional and is still preferred by many. The material itself adds to the rings value. It is easier to reshape than other alloys because of how soft it is. Yellow gold has been chosen by many couples, but it also has its drawbacks. Gold is more soft than other materials used in wedding bands. In time, the material can look dull, nicked-up and scratched. Some gold rings will lose their shape in time. People who are in contact with other hard materials or activity may find gold just isn’t right for them.

In recent years white gold has gained in usage and popularity. White gold manages to retain the intrinsic value of gold, without the brassy coloring of yellow gold. White gold is an alloy mix of gold together with materials such as zinc, palladium, or nickel. When a ring is finished it is rhodium plated to cover the dull yellow color that remains. Like yellow gold, many of the benefits are the same. Some of their weaknesses are the same. White gold will also scratch easily and be prone to losing some of its shape. Also, white gold rings need to be re-rhodium plated on a regular basis. This should happen every 6-18 months. While some couples are very happy with their white gold, others find dealing with nicks and re-rhodium plating is just too much maintenance.

Titanium rings have seen widespread use in recent years. Titanium is a very light, but durable alloy. It is a strong material and is sometimes used for drill bit tips and other high friction items. It is a dark gray color naturally, but can be enhanced with different finishes. Since it is hard to scratch, and maintains a nice luster even after wear, many couples are happy with the low maintenance titanium. Some old wives tales will say that titanium rings cannot be cut off of ones finger in the case of an accident. Although it is more difficult to cut a harder material, it is still possible. Because of the hardness of the material, it is impossible to re-size a titanium ring.

Tungsten carbide is the newest material to market that we will look at. Tungsten carbide is created by combining a bonding agent with tungsten and carbon particles. Once a tungsten ring has been cast it is extremely hard and scratch resistant. Tungsten is actually a lot heavier than gold or silver, but it much more durable also. As wedding bands go, tungsten rings maintain the cleanest finish as scratches to it are not easily visible. Tungsten lacks the malleability of gold and cannot be re-sized. Tungsten rings can also be broken if dropped onto ceramic tile or other accidents.

Choosing a wedding band means making many choices. A couple can choose a traditional material or a new one. The most important thing is that a couple choose something they will be pleased with. There is a much better chance of a couple appreciating their rings if they have taken the time to educate themselves.

Liam Grant has always been interested in Celtic Wedding Bands. He currently helps run a site that sells all varieties of Celtic Wedding Bands and Celtic Wedding Rings