Choosing the Ideal Metal Type for Your Engagement Ring

Custom-designing an engagement ring usually makes people think of choosing the diamond shape and cut, but don’t forget, the metal type used in the shank is also a really important part of ring selection. It can change the vibe of the entire ring. At The Diamond Room, our engagement rings come in platinum, rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold. We also offer wedding bands with the same metal options, allowing you to have a cohesive look. Each metal varies in durability, price (which depends on the karat value and longevity), and color. There are differing maintenance requirements based on the type of metal you choose as well.

Our team of experienced jewelers knows the ins and outs of all these metals. With our knowledge and expertise, we will help you choose the metal that fits your partner’s style and your budget.

Comparing Your Options

First and foremost, understanding your partner’s style may help you when selecting the metal type for the ring. Pay attention to the kind of metal they usually wear with their jewelry, and design the ring with a shank that matches. However, if your partner does not typically wear metal jewelry, this breakdown may help you choose one that fits them best:

Durability

Platinum is one of the most durable options. It can withstand bang-ups and scratches and won’t lose its luster. Known for its strength, it can firmly hold any gems or diamonds placed on it.

Rose, yellow, and white gold share many similarities in terms of durability. They all contain an alloy (or mixture) of gold and other metal elements. Rose gold is an alloy of gold and copper, and because it has a large amount of copper, it is generally more durable than its yellow and white counterparts. Yellow and white gold are still solid choices for an engagement ring’s metal, too, depending on your partner’s style. While gold is not as strong or resilient as platinum, if you treat it well and keep up with regular cleaning, it will last a long time.

Karat Value and Durability

Karat also dictates durability in gold. It is a measurement that quantifies the purity of gold in the shank. Carat with a “C”, on the other hand, is the gemstone’s weight.

The higher the karat, the more gold that makes up the alloy. The lower the karat value means there are other metals mixed in the shank, such as copper or zinc. Those additional elements help bolster the shank, giving it a more resilient build, but it won’t be pure gold. 24k is pure gold, but it is the least durable. At The Diamond Room, the highest karat value we sell is 18k to ensure your shank has more vitality. 10k is the lowest and most durable.

Price

A few factors weigh in on an engagement ring’s price. Durability, for one, is the leading reason why platinum is one of the most expensive choices for the shank. It’s strong, retains its color, doesn’t succumb to scratches, and is hypoallergenic. For some, common metals can cause allergic reactions on their skin. Platinum is a mostly pure metal—it doesn’t contain those elements that some are allergic to—making it a safe, but more expensive option.

As for the gold options, the price largely depends on the karat value. The higher the purity of gold in the shank’s alloy, the more expensive. So 24k, or pure gold, is the most expensive option, while 10k is the most affordable as it’s mixed with other metals.

Maintenance

Depending on the metal you choose, there are certain care recommendations to keep it clean and shiny for years to come.

Platinum jewelry is perhaps the lowest-maintenance because of its durability. The only thing to look out for is gradual discoloring from tarnishing, which can be remedied with a simple polish. You can also clean your platinum with mild soap and warm water, scrubbing it with a soft brush.

You can also employ regular polishing and cleaning with soap and water on your gold, too. However, with white gold, you may opt to regularly replate it with rhodium to keep it protected and maintain the shank’s white/silvery appearance.