The popularity of different metals for men’s rings varies, and some people will have a preference between them. Often, the type of work that a person does will determine their preference.
For example, someone who is in contact with water regularly may want to avoid wearing platinum and go with titanium or tungsten instead. Also, those who might be working in the military or law enforcement may prefer stainless steel because it’s easier to take on and off as needed.
This guide will take a look at the top 9 most popular types of metal used in men’s rings.
9 Popular Men’s Ring Metal Comparison
1. Platinum
Platinum is a pricey metal to use, but since it is so dense, it does not tarnish (it is actually the highest quality of gold). It is also very strong and one of the heaviest metals. This makes it the best choice for men who want a ring that will last a long time.
Many of the premium rings made today are made of this precious metal. It is highly valued and looks great in many different styles. It’s also typically used to set lab grown diamond and other gems into a ring, giving it a very elegant look. In fact, platinum is so rare that it’s actually referred to as a precious metal.
Pros
- Extremely durable, does not tarnish or get scratched. This makes it an excellent option for both military men and mechanics.
- It has a high shine, making it a great choice for rings worn at work.
- It can be worn with any type of gemstone because it doesn’t scratch or tarnish.
- Elegant look and looks great in most styles.
Con
- Expensive, but the value makes up for it in the long run.
2. Gold
According to a study by a jeweler, the most popular ring metal is gold due to its long-lasting appeal. In fact, all the other metals that were looked at had only a 5-year shelf life compared to gold’s 25-year shelf life.
Yellow gold is also one of the most affordable mens ring metal and can be easily shaped into many different forms. However, it is important to note that the price and quality of gold wedding bands is often determined by its karat. According to another study, 14 karat gold was considered the ideal engagement ring due to it being resistant to damage and tarnish while still being affordable.
Gold is available in Pure Gold, 9K Gold, 10K Gold, 14K Gold, 18K Gold, and 24K Gold. Each one has a different carat weight giving you a different look and quality.
Pros
- Great for gifts
- Long-lasting
- Affordable
- Durable
Cons
- Can be damaged easily
- Difficult to work with
3. Tungsten
Tungsten is a dense metal, which makes it very durable and adds weight to a ring. Tungsten is also hypoallergenic and is an excellent choice for those who have sensitive skin.
When choosing tungsten, it’s important to know that there are different tungsten grades, which can make the price more than just the type of metal used. The higher the grade, the better it is for those who wear rings frequently. This is because the higher-grade tungsten carbide is harder, more scratch-resistant, and more durable.
Tungsten is also an excellent choice for men in occupations where their hands may get wet or need to wear gloves. The high density of this mens ring metal means that it’s less likely to bend or scratch than others, but it will still be comfortable to wear even if it stays on the finger all day.
Pros
- Tungsten is more affordable than other metals.
- It’s harder than gold, silver, and platinum.
- It can be made in different colors.
- It doesn’t scratch easily and is less likely to bend.
Con
- It can scratch glass and tends to lose its shine quickly over time. This means that it should be polished regularly.
4. Ceramic
Ceramic rings are very popular for their unique look and style. Its unique look makes it a unique-looking mens wedding bands, but it is also highly durable and will last a long time. Ceramic rings are also naturally hypoallergenic, so those with sensitive skin can comfortably wear them.
Ceramic rings contain no nickel or other metals that can cause allergic reactions. People who wear these rings often find that they are comfortable to wear as well, so they can get used to wearing them more often than other ring types. Ceramic rings are very popular for use with dress shoes and formal wear, which is why they can be seen with celebrities. They have a traditional look that is a great way to enhance the overall look of your clothing.
Ceramic rings are great for those who have allergies to certain jewelry materials. It is also a great choice for consumers who like the stylish look that ceramic offers but wants the durability of a metal ring without tarnishing or wearing down as some metals do over time.
Pros
- Durable – will not tarnish or wear down
- Hypoallergenic
- Many styles to choose from
- It takes well to customization
- Ceramic rings are easy to clean
Con
- They are brittle and can break easily
5. Cobalt Chrome
Cobalt chrome is a combination of chrome and cobalt. This type of wedding ring metals is extremely hard, making it a popular choice for men’s rings. It is used in jewelry, surgical implants, and dental work. Cobalt chrome can also be found in men’s wedding band. Cobalt chrome rings have a unique, almost buttery feel that is comfortable.
Cobalt chrome rings are water resistant. They will form a protective oxide layer that insulates them from the effects of water and other liquids. This means that they are resistant to rusting and can be cleaned with soap and warm water without causing any damage to the ring. Cobalt chrome is also very easy to maintain and does not require polishing.
Pros
- Cobalt chrome rings are pretty hypoallergenic
- They are very durable and do not scratch easily
- They can withstand a lot of wear and tear
- Cobalt chrome is quite affordable
Cons
- They are not very comfortable at first
- Harsh chemicals can damage them
6. Titanium
Titanium has been a popular choice for men’s rings as it often comes at an average price and doesn’t tend to corrode as easily as other metals. It is an ideal choice for those with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis because it won’t react with the skin. The strength and durability of titanium is also a bonus which means that it will last for years to come.
The color of titanium can vary from white to blue to gray. White is the most common color. Titanium is sometimes covered with rhodium or gold plating. Some people will polish their rings regularly, which will also help reduce scratches.
As a rule, you can expect to pay around $200-$300 for a titanium mens wedding ring that has been customized.
Pros
- Very strong
- Low maintenance
- Affordable price tag
- Fashionable look
Cons
- Not as hard as other metals, so it can chip easily
- Not great for those who live near water
7. Meteorite
Meteorite rings are made from meteorite material. Sizes can vary depending on how large the meteorite is that is used to make the ring. Meteorite material comes from space, which makes it a unique ring to wear and show off. One of the more popular meteorite material types is Gibeon Meteorite.
The rings are made from refractory inclusions found in this material. Meteorite rings are typically damascus steel or cobalt chrome. Meteorite rings are surprisingly less expensive than those made from precious metals. In fact, they are sometimes very inexpensive.
Pros
- They come in a variety of sizes and weights, depending on the person’s preference and needs.
- They offer a unique look that can’t be found in other rings.
- They are typically very affordable, even for those on a tight budget.
- They are lightweight and durable, making them extremely easy to wear with little or no problems for most people.
Con
- The price can vary depending on the size of the meteorite.
- They aren’t a real precious metal, but are created from refractory inclusions found in meteorites.
8. Dinosaur Bone
Dinosaur bone rings are made from ancient fossilized dinosaur bones. The rings come in different widths and thicknesses and are smooth and textured. The smooth rings are more suitable for mens wedding band, while the textured rings are more versatile.
The cracked ring is also a dinosaur bone ring. These rings are black and are used solely for their interesting design. In addition to being very popular, Dinosaur Bone rings are also very strong.
The most popular Dinosaur Bone rings are those with a brushed finish that comes in a wide range of styles. Some of the settings available include plain solitaire rings, rings with diamonds, and split shank settings. This type of ring is very popular and will make an excellent choice for those who need a unique set of rings.
Pros
- The ring is very strong and durable.
- The ring is highly durable and strong because it is made from fossilized dinosaur bones.
- Very versatile
- The ring is both smooth and textured and can be used for a great variety of settings.
- The ring is weather resistant and will not rust or corrode.
Con
- The ring requires regular maintenance to keep it from turning black.
9. Silver
Silver is a popular choice for men’s rings because it has a high enough melting point to be worn in all climates, including deserts. It is also a great option for those who are allergic to nickel.
Silver is also very affordable and is widely available, making it easy to find in most stores. Silver rings are an excellent choice for those who want something that’s simple and classy. However, if you choose this option, be sure to go with something with a high enough silver content.
Additionally, if you wear silver rings in the sun a lot, make sure they don’t have any other plating or finishing applied to them. Otherwise, you will find that they will tarnish over time. Overall, silver is a good option for those who are looking for something simple and classic. They will not cost a lot and stand the test of time well.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable to wear
- Goes with everything
- Widely available
Con
- It can be easily damaged if not polished properly.
Metal Comparison Chart
This Comparison Chart gives a brief overview of the different metals that are used in men’s rings.
| Metal Ring | Features |
| Platinum | With a striking white finish, it comes in a wide range of stylish designs that are all very durable. |
| Gold | Conducts heat and electricity.Highly reflective of heat and light. Ductile: It can be drawn out into the thinnest wire. Malleable, so it can be flattened into extremely thin sheets.Prized for its beauty. |
| Tungsten | Scratch-resistant, Lightweight, and very durable |
| Ceramic | Hypoallergenic.They are quite impossible to scratch, and even if they do, the scratches won’t show up on the lighter shades.Non-metallic/conductive.Safety. |
| Cobalt Chrome | 4x harder than platinum, 5x harder than gold and 7x harder than silver |
| Titanium | Biocompatible, lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and best strength-to-weight ratio of any crystalline metal. |
| Meteorite | On the meteorite’s surface, there may be black patches or small holes that are often evidence of metals that, in certain situations, do not exist naturally on earth. |
| Dinosaur Bone | Black, brushed finish, |
| Silver | Ductile, soft, malleable, and lustrous |
FAQs
What is the best material for a man’s ring?
Gold is generally recognized as being the metal best suited for a man’s wedding ring, but that’s because it is rare and beautiful. Many other metals can be used for men’s rings, and some are quite popular too. Men who are in contact with water or are involved in hazardous professions tend to favor titanium and tungsten rings. Also, stainless steel is quite popular, although it does not look as high quality as white gold, platinum, or titanium.
What is the cheapest ring metal?
Sterling Silver is currently the cheapest ring metal because it is affordable and also has a lot going for it. It is a semi-precious metal that is easy to work with and has a smooth surface. It is a perfect choice for those who are looking for a casual wedding ring that won’t break the bank.
What metal are rings made of?
Silver, Platinum, and Gold are all metals used for making rings. Every ring is made using these metals in different amounts. Wedding rings often use more silver than rings that are made for everyday purposes or a teenager’s ring. The metals used are extremely important, and it is important to find out how the ring was made. This information can be found in the product description.
What mens ring won’t scratch?
Tungsten is an alloy that is more durable than rose gold and Platinum. It has a low melting point, and there is no proof of scratching. However, it can chip or scratch due to contact with other materials.
Final Words
In conclusion, the type of metal a man wears on his ring finger can reflect what is important to him. You might want to wear something that is symbolic or represents a meaningful friendship or relationship. The kind of work that you do might also affect your choice of metal as well. Several different metals can be used to make a ring, and it’s often a matter of personal preference to determine which one works best for you.
