It’s time to start shopping for engagement rings! While this is undoubtedly an exciting time, and you’re eager to see her face when you pop the question, you need to take a moment to consider a few things before getting down on one knee. Specifically, you need to pick the style of the ring. This involves choosing the diamond’s cut, color, clarity, and carat, along with the ring’s metal and setting type. And just as there are different cuts of diamonds for engagement rings, there are several metal types to choose from.

While you don’t have to consider the center diamond when shopping for wedding bands, you still have several factors to consider — one of which includes the band’s metal. So whether you are getting ready to propose or are already engaged, it’s never too early to buy wedding bands for the big day.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options, come by Michael’s Jewelers. Our experts have all the tips for finding the perfect ring for your special someone.

Popular Engagement Ring Metal Options

It can feel overwhelming narrowing down your choices of engagement rings, but once you understand how the ring’s metal affects its overall aesthetics, it becomes much easier to pick the ring that complements your future bride’s style. For example, a yellow or rose gold ring could be a perfect choice if she prefers warmer tones. On the other hand, if she frequently wears cooler hues, a white gold, silver, or platinum engagement ring would grace her finger well.

As you prepare to buy the perfect diamond engagement ring, weigh the different ring metal types. For engagement rings, most women prefer gold or platinum bands. Here’s the difference between these options.

Gold

Gold is the most popular choice of metal for any type of jewelry, as it is an incredibly versatile material. Since pure gold (24-karat gold) is too soft for jewelry, the metal is mixed with other metal alloys to form the durable jewelry we all know and love. The most common types of gold jewelry are made with 18K, 14K, and 10K gold. The greater the percentage of gold in the ring, the richer the yellow tone is.

When you choose gold engagement rings and wedding bands, you will be able to select from the following:

• Yellow Gold: For a more traditional style, yellow gold engagement rings are the perfect option. The metal’s rich, warm glow will highlight the sparkle of the ring’s center diamond and provide timeless appeal for years to come.
• White Gold: Women who prefer cooler-toned jewelry will appreciate the look of white gold rings. Their silvery-white color is achieved by combining yellow gold with copper, zinc, and nickel and coating the ring with rhodium. It’s important to note that this coating can wear away with time and must be replated every six to 18 months. If you’re wondering whether your bride-to-be would prefer yellow gold or white gold, check out our guide on the differences between yellow vs. white gold jewelry.
• Rose Gold: Of course, we can’t finish discussing gold engagement rings without mentioning rose gold. Thanks to its pink undertones and romantic vibes, rose gold has quickly grown in popularity. Its distinct appearance results from combining yellow gold with copper alloy and will certainly please your fiancée.

Platinum

As a naturally white metal, platinum is a popular option for brides-to-be looking for jewelry with cooler tones. Its elegant sheen highlights the brilliance of the center diamond and does not leave much to be desired.

In addition to its stunning appearance, platinum is highly durable and will not scratch easily. This strength makes it an ideal option for those who lead an active lifestyle. So you and your future wife can keep up with the rigors and joys of life without worrying about her engagement ring changing colors with time or requiring replating.

Which Ring Metal Should You Choose?

As you shop for engagement rings, make sure you consider the ring’s metal. While the center diamond certainly steals the show, the band can either add to or detract from the stone’s brilliance. Your jeweler can help you choose a metal that will protect the color and sparkle of the diamond and be everything your future bride-to-be has ever dreamed of.

Ring Metal Types for Wedding Bands

When looking for the perfect wedding band for you and your loved one, you have a variety of options available. In addition to gold and platinum, you can select from palladium, titanium, and tungsten. Here’s a brief look at some of these popular wedding band metal options:

• Palladium: This wedding band metal is a preferable choice for those who love the appearance of platinum rings but don’t want to contend with the price tag. The shiny finish creates a striking appearance, and the metal’s durability is perfect for those with an active lifestyle. It’s important to note that palladium rings are not as durable as platinum bands and may show scratches down the line.
• Titanium: Titanium is a popular metal choice for men’s wedding bands, as it is highly durable and lightweight. It can withstand the rigors of daily life while feeling like there’s almost nothing on your finger. Plus, it will keep its classic appearance for years to come. The only downside is that it is difficult to resize — so choose your size carefully!
• Tungsten: Looking for a low-maintenance option that looks amazing from your wedding day to every day following? Tungsten is the ring metal choice for you! It’s highly scratch-resistant and doesn’t require upkeep. However, you must consider that tungsten is brittle and can crack upon impact with a hard surface.

Find Your Perfect Engagement Ring or Wedding Band at Michael’s Jewelers — And Enjoy 25% Off in April 2023!

Visit Michael’s Jewelers today to speak with a professional jeweler about choosing the right metal for your engagement ring or wedding band. We can help you weigh your options based on your budget, diamond preferences, and lifestyle. We can even help you create custom jewelry for the big day!

And don’t miss our big wedding band sale we’re having through April 2023! When you buy a wedding band this month, you can enjoy 25% off all wedding bands, including custom designs! So stop by our jewelry store today to buy the wedding band of your dreams.