Metal Choices for Engagement & Wedding Rings

Platinum
The rarest of metals, Platinum is a natural silvery-white metal known for its strength and purity. Platinum jewelry is typically 95% pure and resistant to both oxidation and corrosion. Its density makes it incredibly strong and durable. Platinum holds precious stones better than any other metal, is naturally hypoallergenic and won’t irritate sensitive skin. When platinum does scratch as all metals do, there is very little metal lost, so your ring will endure many years of wear.

Platinum does not require rhodium plating like white gold. It is a dense (strong) metal, while also being malleable. Commonly used in high-end jewelry pieces, platinum will hold up to a lifetime of wear and provide the best protection your valuable gemstones. Due to its density (60% more dense than 14k Gold), platinum is typically the most expensive precious metal.

Gold
Pure 24K gold is a soft metal and would too easily scratch if not mixed with alloys such as zinc or copper for strength. Typically 14K gold is 58.5% pure gold and 41.5% alloy mix). Most gold engagement rings and wedding bands made are 14K gold.

White Gold
White Gold is a mix of pure gold and at least one white metal, usually nickel, manganese or palladium. White Gold’s color and properties vary depending on the metals used. White gold rings are also often surface plated with rhodium. In time, however, a rhodium coating can wear off and alter the color of your ring. Periodic cleaning and rhodium coating (called dipping) should be expected. DePrisco provides rhodium dipping if you choose a rhodium plated ring.

Rose Gold
This pink-tinted metal is gold with an added copper alloy. The more copper alloy in the metal, the deeper the rosy tones will be. It’s durable and has a look that’s pleasing against many skin tones.

Titanium
Titanium rings are durable, lightweight hypoallergenic and resistant to corrosion and tarnish – Even when exposed to saltwater. This sturdy metal typically has a cool-gray finish or can be a polished black. Titanium rings are difficult to resize or customize and are not scratch resistant.