Tungsten ring quality?

[MissHell]

Anyone know how well/long tungsten rings last?

How do they compare to to other metals? Like white gold or platinum?

[pauldun170]

from reekipaedia

Domestic

Tungsten carbide is sometimes used as the rotating ball in the tips of ballpoint pens to disperse ink during writing.[15]

Tungsten carbide can now be found in the inventory of some jewelers, most notably as the primary material in men's wedding rings. When used in this application the bands appear with a lustrous dark hue often buffed to a mirror finish. The color is more similar to that of hematite than to that of platinum. The finish is highly resistant to scratches and scuffs, holding its mirror-like shine for years. Although it is possible to inlay precious metals, woods, and other materials, these are less scratch-resistant than tungsten carbide.

A common misconception held concerning tungsten carbide rings is they cannot be removed in the course of emergency medical treatment, requiring the finger to be removed instead. Emergency rooms and many full-service jewelry repair shops are equipped with jewelers' saws that can cut through tungsten carbide rings [16] without injuring the hand or finger. An easier way to remove tungsten carbide rings is to use a tool such as vice grip style locking pliers, which can be used to shatter the ring. [17]

Many manufacturers of this emerging jewelry material state that the use of a cobalt binder may cause unwanted reactions between the cobalt and the natural oils on human skin. Skin oils cause the cobalt to leach from the material. This is said to cause possible irritation of the skin and permanent staining of the jewelry itself. Many manufacturers now advertise that their jewelry is "cobalt free". This is achieved by replacing the cobalt with nickel as a binder.[18]

[BobTheBiker]

in terms of durability, tungsten carbide is tough ass material. I mean you find it in saw blades, used for teeth on large hydraulic excavators, and a lot of applications requiring tough materials to survive lots of abusive conditions.

as far as its use in jewelery, I have no clue, but I"d imagine itd hold up quite well for a long time and still look good, based on its resistance to abraision and general durable nature.

[TommyHotWheel]

I love my Tungsten ring. I am a machinist, machine maintainance, home mechanic and professional clutz and this ring is standing up to everything I do to it. It doesnt scratch and looks like the day I bought it. My wife liked it so much, she got one instead of the gold one she picked.

[cbrchick]

my hubby's ring is tungsten. He loves it and so do I. Exceptionally tough material. He still wears his on the ship, although he runs the risk of loosing his finger if he gets it caught somewhere. Difficult to cut off fingers in an ER setting.

He managed to chip with window of our Volvo a little while ago when he went to tap a bug on the inside. Lucky for us, a sliver just came off the top of the window, and not smash the whole thing.

So be careful.

[EpyonXero]

Why do people want tungsten rings? Because its durable? I dont wear jewelry but I always thought the point was to wear a precious metal.

[Amber Lamps]

I love my tungsten ring! I also have a Movado Fiero watch that is made of tungsten that has survived without a scratch.

[Amber Lamps]

I love my tungsten/cf ring! I paid like $10 for it off EBay. I also have a Movado Fiero watch that is made of tungsten that has survived without a scratch.

http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll220/lontigger/0433c4a5.jpg

[karl_1052]

My buddy has had his for about 5 years now.
They are durable, but they are also expensive.

Titanium rings are getting popular up here too. Lighter, and cheaper.

[marko138]

My buddy has had his for about 5 years now.
They are durable, but they are also expensive.

Titanium rings are getting popular up here too. Lighter, and cheaper.
My wedding ring is titanium.

[Amber Lamps]

My buddy has had his for about 5 years now.
They are durable, but they are also expensive.

Titanium rings are getting popular up here too. Lighter, and cheaper.

$20 on eBay. ..

http://m.ebay.com/Pages/ViewItem.aspx?aid=370348663321&emvAD=533x238&sv=tungsten%20rings&emvcc=0

[the chi]

You can find good ones off EBay for $50 bucks. They are virtually indestructible, but they can be shattered and sawn through (eventually).

My hubby's first ring I got him was stolen, so the replacements I buy in multiples on Ebay so he's got a spare when he misplaces the one he wears all the time.

[CrazyKell]

Why do people want tungsten rings? Because its durable? I dont wear jewelry but I always thought the point was to wear a precious metal.

this. :scratch:

[the chi]

The Tungsten are actually very attractive, especially the black version. I'd love to have myself for when I am doing manual labor or playing outside, I just havent found one small enough yet.

[Dave]

meh i think when the time comes ill have it tattooed on. I never could stand to wear rings and watches

[goof2]

Why do people want tungsten rings? Because its durable? I dont wear jewelry but I always thought the point was to wear a precious metal.

Gold is currently expensive as hell, isn't very durable, and many don't like to wear it. A ring doesn't lose any of its symbolic value based on the material it is made from. A wedding ring is meant to be worn. Why not get a ring the owner will like wearing.

[Speedracer42]

I have a tungsten ring with laser etched crosses in it and its not only bad ass, but it has held up VERY well to the abuse I give it. Kind of spendy for a ring with no stones, but well worth it imo

[RACER X]

looked into tungston, thought the heavy aspect would be cool, went the other direction and got titanium, glad i did, nice to not feel it on your hand.

[TommyHotWheel]

My ring was $97 out the door with fitting, lifetime-no questions asked damage replacement and resize replacement(cant re-size this). My rings is plain and very light and is better looking after a year than my brothers Ti that he bought a month earlier.

[Rider]

I looked at one of these rings in a jewelry store a couple of years ago as a replacement for my 18 yo wedding ring. It was $400 so I passed. Not sure why the ones on Ebay are so cheap but I'm thinking of getting one, hell at that price I can get one for every finger......but I won't.

[Amorok]

My wedding band is titanium, it's durable as hell. Plus, titanium has antibacterial properties. It's an awesome ring and it cost next to nothing.

[Trip]

It's all about the platinum bitches

[the chi]

Jewelry stores are beyond overpriced. The original I got the hubby was $450, but the replacement I got on ebay is identical for the $50. It was only more than $30 because its laser etched or however they do it.

[Phenix_Rider]

You can find good ones off EBay for $50 bucks. They are virtually indestructible, but they can be shattered and sawn through (eventually).

My hubby's first ring I got him was stolen, so the replacements I buy in multiples on Ebay so he's got a spare when he misplaces the one he wears all the time.

Shattered?? I take it it's powdered metal then? I'd never heard of tungsten rings. Tungsten is the filament in a lightbulb :lol: And a lot of drillbits are "carbide." I've seen them snap or chip, but they're hardened.

[jtemple]

I bought my tungsten carbide ring in 2005 and it still looks brand new.

[the chi]

Shattered?? I take it it's powdered metal then? I'd never heard of tungsten rings. Tungsten is the filament in a lightbulb :lol: And a lot of drillbits are "carbide." I've seen them snap or chip, but they're hardened.


When they break, supposedly they shatter into a million pieces. Rarely happens from what I understand tho, you have to hit it just right. There is no resizing or cutting. Same material they make the saw blades out of, the rings are made of Tungsten Carbide, not just the Tungsten. They did tell us when we bought it we might be able to shatter it with a hammer, but I havent tested that yet. :wink:

[Phenix_Rider]

When they break, supposedly they shatter into a million pieces. Rarely happens from what I understand tho, you have to hit it just right. There is no resizing or cutting. Same material they make the saw blades out of, the rings are made of Tungsten Carbide, not just the Tungsten. They did tell us when we bought it we might be able to shatter it with a hammer, but I havent tested that yet. :wink:

Just make sure he doesn't do it while it's on his hand... Or that you don't... :tremble:

I wonder if the difference is the cobalt binder?

Yup. Looks like they are powdered metal/crystalline too. Not hammered (like wedding rings) or (cast- like school/trophy rings). Wild how many different colors there are, and the various metal inlays are cool.


What's the difference between Tungsten Rings and Tungsten Carbide Rings?

Some of our competitors sell Tungsten rings that do not include Carbide. (Some of the retailers still call them Tungsten Carbide however, so be careful.) A Tungsten only ring is basically a steel ring. It is very hard, but NOT scratch proof.

A Tungsten Carbide ring can only be scratched by a diamond or a product containing the mineral corundum.

If you are shopping for a tungsten ring, or mens wedding band, you are better off with one of our Tungsten Carbide Rings and it's lifetime warranty.

Should I be concerned with Cobalt in my Ring?

Absolutely YES!Many Tungsten and tungsten carbide rings have Cobalt in them. The alloy containing Cobalt is easier to procure and rings containing Cobalt are being commonly sold. However, rings containing Cobalt will develop a negative react to your skin. After a short time period the ring will develop oxidation spots that cannot be removed or polished out. This is due to the Cobalt reacting to the human body. You can easily prevent this from happening by purchasing one of our Cobalt free tungsten carbide rings.

How to Care for your new Tungsten Ring

Your new tungsten ring should last for a lifetime and always look great! There are a just a few points to keep in mind to ensure your ring stays in it's pristine condition for years to come.

DO NOT drop your ring on a hard surface or purposely hit it with hard metal tool, such as a hammer.
DO NOT clean your tungsten ring in a jewelers ultrasonic cleaner, or with a steam cleaner or ionic cleaner.
DO NOT clean your tungsten ring with any chemicals as this can cause spotting.
DO only clean your tungsten ring with a mild soap and water. This will remove dirt, grime, lotions and keep your ring sparkly clean!

Emergency Removal of Tungsten Rings

Materials, like tungsten carbide or ceramic, can only be removed by cracking them into pieces with standard vice grip–style locking pliers. Standard ring cutters will not work.
Place vice grip–style locking pliers over ring and adjust the jaws to clamp lightly. Release and adjust tightener one-third turn and then clamp again. Repeat until a crack is heard, and then continue clamping in different positions until the hard material breaks away. Take care not to slide or rotate the cracked ring on the finger. If the ring contains an inlay of gold, the exposed gold can then be cut or clipped in the usual fashion.
Click here for our wide selection of unique tungsten rings

http://www.titanium-jewelry.com/about-tungsten.html

[MissHell]

Thanks for all the feedback! :dthumb:

[Flexin]

I love my Tungsten wedding ring. I think it was about $300. I got it because it looked better then any other ring in the stores. I wasn't sure about getting it because of the issue of getting it off. After thinking about it I liked it too much not to get it. I didn't wear it while doing construction and I don't wear it to to fire school. I have had it about 1.5 years and it looks brand new.

James

[Sixxxxer]

I just bought a Tungsten Ring for like 200 At a Jewler, The only thing I DONT like is it cant be sized...I'm a "10" but its not a "perfect" fit

I'm the same as most men, Its gonna be odd to wear it 24/7 But eventually Like anything I'll get used to it.

I like the Look, I'm not a Gold Kinda Guy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v227/Braindamaged0386/DSC_2153.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v227/Braindamaged0386/DSC_2157.jpg

[marko138]

I hate the look of gold. No fucking way I'd wear a gold ring. I like mine.


Sixxxx...took me a couple weeks to get used to the ring. Now it feels weird if I take it off.

[Gas Man]

They can't be sized and they really cant be cut off.

[tommymac]

They can't be sized and they really cant be cut off.

just waiting to see one we need to cut off in the ER, we will have to call ESU for that one since they have the hardcore cutting tools.

Our ring cutter isnt much more than a cheap glorified dremmel and not even a good one.

[jtemple]

You're right, they can't be resized. However, I can exchange mine for a brand new ring any time, for $35. It kind of makes me wonder what they do with the one I returned.

They also can't do 1/4 sizes, like they can do with gold (they just stretch the gold). If 8 1/2 is too small and 9 is too big, forget it.

[Phenix_Rider]

just waiting to see one we need to cut off in the ER, we will have to call ESU for that one since they have the hardcore cutting tools.

Our ring cutter isnt much more than a cheap glorified dremmel and not even a good one.

Got Vice Grips?
Apparently, you just crimp the ring a few times and it cracks into small pieces.

[tommymac]

Got Vice Grips?
Apparently, you just crimp the ring a few times and it cracks into small pieces.

easier said then done when its still attatched to said finger.

[Cutty72]

Ring on chain around neck. done.
I don't wear rings.

[pdog]

My tungsten wedding ring is $45 on ebay. You really don't need to resize it when you can just buy another size for that price. I have summer and winter rings, due to seasonal "finger bloat". :D

[jtemple]

My tungsten wedding ring is $45 on ebay. You really don't need to resize it when you can just buy another size for that price. I have summer and winter rings, due to seasonal "finger bloat". :DMine was more than a gold band (nearly $500). I don't know if there's a quality difference. Mine is made by a company called Triton. I bought it at a local jeweler. Here is Triton's website: http://www.titanium-jewelry.com/triton.html

[derf]

Sixxxx...took me a couple weeks to get used to the ring. Now it feels weird if I take it off.


I wore my ring for 2 weeks then it came off, been off ever since.

I'm always scared of rings getting crushed on my finger, seen it happen a few times, those same people cant count past 9 any more.

[Gas Man]

But how well can a tungsten ring be crushed? We established they are hard to cut.

[marko138]

I wore my ring for 2 weeks then it came off, been off ever since.

I'm always scared of rings getting crushed on my finger, seen it happen a few times, those same people cant count past 9 any more.

I'm not really worried about that. I take pictures for a living. :lol:

[jtemple]

I'm not really worried about that. I take pictures for a living. :lol:I write software. The only thing I do where I could see the ring becoming an issue is ride. I suppose if I was that worried about it, I could leave my ring at home when I ride.

[the chi]

But how well can a tungsten ring be crushed? We established they are hard to cut.

They cant be crushed...see Phoenix's earlier post. When being "cut" or if you manage to destroy it, it shatters. No crushing. If it shatters on your hand from something falling on it, your hand is going the way of the ring.

[marko138]

They cant be crushed...see Phoenix's earlier post. When being "cut" or if you manage to destroy it, it shatters. No crushing. If it shatters on your hand from something falling on it, your hand is going the way of the ring.
Yeah I didn't understand the whole crush deal. What are you gonna do...put a pair of vice gribs on the ring and when it crushes, destroy the dudes finger?

[the chi]

From what I understand, its a pretty delicate process but it can be done.

Moral of story: If you're hands are swollen or you are doing something that may have adverse side effects and could make it necessary to cut it off, dont wear it.

[Amber Lamps]

Yeah I didn't understand the whole crush deal. What are you gonna do...put a pair of vice gribs on the ring and when it crushes, destroy the dudes finger?

It's not a big deal. As stated, you put the grips on and adjust them by 1/3 of a turn until it cracks. That's only a few millimeters at a time, no danger.

[marko138]

AFAIK you can't cut off titanium either. So, if I'm in an emergency situation I'll just be the sweet dude on the block with 9 fingers.

[the chi]

Come up with some killer stories to tell the children...:lol:

[marko138]

Come up with some killer stories to tell the children...:lol:
The kids will know I'm not to be fucked with if I'm missing a finger. I can shake my 4 fingered fist at them!

[Phenix_Rider]

Yeah I didn't understand the whole crush deal. What are you gonna do...put a pair of vice gribs on the ring and when it crushes, destroy the dudes finger?

I took it to mean you squeeze the other direction. Not around the whole finger, just the narrow dimension of the ring. It's crystalline, so it will still break that way. Actually, I bet it would be easier, since you don't have the circular shape redistributing all the force.

[Amber Lamps]

I took it to mean you squeeze the other direction. Not around the whole finger, just the narrow dimension of the ring. It's crystalline, so it will still break that way. Actually, I bet it would be easier, since you don't have the circular shape redistributing all the force.

Hmmm.... I don't know. I have two and they haven't broke. I wore them everyday working for Overhead Door, no issues.:idk:

[marko138]

I really would not be concerned with a ring breaking, but thats just me.

[Gas Man]

The kids will know I'm not to be fucked with if I'm missing a finger. I can shake my 4 fingered fist at them!
Plus you'd have a permenant "shocker" wave!

[thunderex]

I have a tungsten wedding ring and it's great. It never gets scratched and I actually get compliments on it fairly often because it's always shiny. Mine has a band of silver in the middle of it which is the only part that shows any wear but it's not scratched enough to just seem like it's supposed to be matte compared to the tungsten part. Like others have said, even though it can't be sized, they're inexpensive enough that it doesn't really matter. I don't believe they're as difficult to remove from a swollen finger as a Titanium ring is. My brother is an ER doc and he advised against me getting a Ti ring because I do a lot of work around the house and he's had to deal with Ti rings in the ER before. I believe Tungsten is "easier" to get off of a swollen finger.

[marko138]

Plus you'd have a permenant "shocker" wave!
Damn right, sucka.

[karl_1052]

just waiting to see one we need to cut off in the ER, we will have to call ESU for that one since they have the hardcore cutting tools.

Our ring cutter isnt much more than a cheap glorified dremmel and not even a good one.

Do baby-daddies get rings these days?:?: