Tungsten rings replace platinum for wedding band of choice
According to EarthTimes.org, the high increase in cost of platinum has created a greater demand for tungsten rings and palladium rings. While they both possess the high quality appeal of titanium and platinum, the precious metals are cheaper. Palladium is a part of the Platinum Group Metals and is similar in chemical make up to platinum.
The cost of palladium is only 29% of the cost of platinum. One troy ounce of 0.9999 platinum sells for about $1,636 on the commodities market as opposed to the $470 of palladium for the same amount. An Ardent wedding band made of platinum, for example, retails for about $2,885 on Titanium-Jewelry.com, whereas the same ring in palladium costs $695.
As the appearance and applications of palladium is similar to that of platinum, it can function as an alternative. Palladium, like platinum, is a rare metal with a lighter white luster and hypoallergenic properties, which has seen its demand in use of jewelry increase in recent years, along with tungsten. In fact, the demand for palladium and tungsten has replaced white gold and alloyed metals as the popular alternative to platinum.
Unlike white gold, palladium needs no rhodium coating or refinishing, but maintains its brilliance over time. Both tungsten and palladium rings have become a favourite for wedding bands.
Tungsten Rings can be purchased locally in SA via WantItAll.
