Durability of materials
Compare the Durability of our different materials
1. Silver: Sterling silver is affordable and attractive but is relatively soft, which makes it prone to scratches and dents. However, its susceptibility to bending depends largely on the weight and design of the ring. Heavier, solid sterling silver rings will generally be less prone to bending than lightweight ones, but with time and rough treatment, even these may deform. Sterling silver is highly unlikely to shatter when dropped.
2. Gold: The durability of gold depends on its carat, with higher carats indicating purer, softer gold that is more prone to scratches and bending. However, like silver, the weight of the ring also plays a significant role. Heavier gold rings resist deformation better than lightweight ones. Despite their weight, gold rings can still be prone to scratches, especially with everyday wear. Gold typically does not shatter when dropped.
3. Platinum: This dense and robust metal resists wear, tear, and deformation better than gold or silver. It can, however, get scratched or dented with enough force. Platinum is highly unlikely to break or shatter when dropped, even from significant heights.
4. Palladium: Palladium offers a lighter alternative to platinum with comparable scratch resistance and wear durability. It is also highly unlikely to break or shatter upon dropping.
5. Titanium: Titanium is extremely strong and lightweight, making it highly resistant to deformation. Its strength means it remains intact and does not shatter when dropped from a significant height. However, it can be challenging to repair if scratched.
6. Tungsten Carbide: Tungsten carbide is one of the hardest materials used in jewellery, offering excellent scratch resistance. However, its hardness also comes with brittleness, and it can shatter or crack if dropped onto a hard surface from a height.
7. Damascus Steel: Damascus steel is known for its unique, wavy, or striped patterns. While quite durable, it is susceptible to rust if not cared for properly. It is unlikely to shatter when dropped, but it might dent or scratch.
8. Zirconium: This corrosion-resistant and durable metal is more scratch-resistant than precious metals like gold and silver. It is also highly unlikely to shatter or break when dropped from a height.
9. Zirconia Ceramic: Extremely hard and durable, zirconia ceramic is highly resistant to scratches. However, its hardness can make it brittle, and it might crack or shatter if dropped from a significant height onto a hard surface.
10. Tantalum: Tantalum is dense and hard, providing excellent resistance to wear and tear and scratches. The likelihood of breaking or shattering when dropped is minimal.
11. Cobalt: Cobalt is similar to tungsten carbide in terms of durability but less brittle. It has high resistance to scratches and wear, and the likelihood of it shattering or breaking when dropped is extremely low.
12. Meteorite: Made from iron-nickel alloys, meteorite rings are quite durable and less likely to shatter upon impact. However, they can scratch or dent. Each ring made from meteorite has unique patterns and aesthetics.
Each material offers a unique balance of aesthetic and physical properties. Lifestyle and the personal preferences of the wearer are key considerations when selecting the best material.
| Material | Scratch Resistance | Durability | Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver | 3 | 4 | 6 |
| Gold | 3 | 5 | 7 |
| Platinum | 6 | 8 | 10 |
| Palladium | 6 | 7 | 10 |
| Titanium | 6 | 8 | 10 |
| Tungsten Carbide | 10 | 7 | 9 |
| Damascus Steel | 6 | 6 | 7 |
| Zirconium | 8 | 8 | 9 |
| Zirconia Ceramic | 9 | 7 | 10 |
| Tantalum | 8 | 9 | 9 |
| Cobalt | 9 | 9 | 8 |
| Meteorite | 6 | 7 | 7 |