Although tungsten is more commonly used for male wedding rings, women have become increasingly interested in tungsten engagement rings, the options have increased. The three most common types of tungsten engagement rings are plain tungsten bands, tungsten bands with metal inlays and tungsten bands with stone and gem inlays.
Plain tungsten engagement rings are the most commonly purchased and can have a variety of designs. The design options for plain tungsten bands include grooves, bevels and engraved designs. Edges also can be rounded, squared or ridged, depending on preference. These options make the plain band more unique by adding patterns and accents. Plain tungsten engagement rings also are the most affordable tungsten option and are often more durable than rings inset with metals and stones.
Another common type of tungsten engagement ring has an inlay, or center band, that is a different metal. Platinum, silver or gold are often used for the inlay. Tungsten engagement rings that are inlaid with other metals create a vibrant contrast of color and are a unique alternative to the plain band.
Tungsten engagement rings with stone inlays also have become popular. These rings provide the buyer with the opportunity to add precious and semiprecious stones such as diamonds, emeralds and rubies to their tungsten band. The number of stones that can be inlaid into a tungsten band is up to the purchaser. Adding numerous stones will make the ring heavier, and tungsten is already a heavy metal. The benefit of stone inlays, however, is that they allow the ring to maintain the traditional engagement ring feel without sacrificing the added hypoallergenic and durability benefits of tungsten.
There also are various color and polish options available for tungsten engagement rings. The tungsten alloy can be manipulated, so rings can range in color from dark black to light silver, depending on preference. Tungsten also is one of the few metals that provide constant shine, and options that focus on preserving shine are available at most jewelers.
The popularity of tungsten engagement rings has risen as the benefits of the tungsten alloy have become more publicized. These benefits, which are a result of the tungsten alloy being a hypoallergenic metal and a scratch-proof metal, include increased durability of the jewelry, and they make the rings suitable for sensitive skin. Tungsten is a high-density metal that is difficult to shape, however, so t there are limited choices available for people who want tungsten engagement rings but also want rings that are unique.