Everything You Should Know About the Metals Used in Diamond Engagement Rings

1. May 31, 2017 Everything You Should Know About the Metals Used in Diamond Engagement Rings When the time comes to propose to your significant other, the first major decision you’ll need to make is which engagement ring to buy. You may be tempted to head to your nearest jewelry store chain with the other 47% of men who do so but, the truth is, the options on offer are going to be limited and of very similar design. Page | 1

2. One design feature that helps a ring to stand out is the metal you choose. Common choices for diamond engagement rings include platinum and 18 karat white, yellow or rose gold, but which should you select? If history, practicality and aesthetics all matter to you, this guide will help you come to an informed decision. Yellow Gold Gold is naturally yellow, so this color is often the most pure. That’s likely why this metal was the first used historically in engagement rings, as it was found in its natural form. Thought to date back to the middle ages, gold rings are now combined with other alloys to keep them strong and durable. Pure yellow gold is soft, so a 24 karat option is not often advisable. 18 karat gold is preferred, as the color will continue to be a vibrant hue of yellow. White Gold and Rose Gold Both white gold and rose gold are alloys of yellow gold. The natural metal is mixed with other ingredients to change the color and properties. White gold is created when rhodium is added into the mix. This element helps keep the ring resistant to corrosion, and is what causes the silver color. Rose gold is a copper and gold alloy, and the pink undertones become deeper the more copper that’s added to the mix. These alloys are often chosen due to their respective meanings: traditionally, rose gold stands for love, white gold represents friendship, and yellow gold means fidelity. The varying hues of gold are a popular choice for diamond engagement rings, as they’re widely available and therefore more affordable compared to other choices. That’s great news if you’d like your budget to focus on the diamonds, rather than the metal itself. Page | 2

3. Platinum Another silver-white metal, platinum is known for its great strength and purity. It’s very dense, which makes it stronger than many metal choices. Unlike white gold bands, the light color won’t fade over time. Plus, it won’t cast a tint on the center stone of a ring as it’s pure in color. If your fiancée has sensitive skin, platinum is a sensible choice as it’s a hypoallergenic metal and won’t irritate on the finger. If you’d prefer to see the metal options in person,it’s best to make an appointment with a trusted jewelry designer. You’ll be able to see each material up close, and make a decision that properly reflects the personality and style of your bride to be. About Mark Patterson Fine Jewelry: If you’re hoping to purchase an engagement ring that’s classy and beautiful, visit us at Mark Patterson Fine Jewelry for a wide array of rings suitable as the focal point of your proposal. We’ve been designing stunning, handcrafted rings and jewelry pieces for over 30 years, so we know we can fulfill your engagement dreams. Sources: Engagement Ring Metal Glossary, TheKnot.com The History of the Diamond as an Engagement Ring, AmericanGemSociety.org Page | 3