For many, the choice of metal in a wedding ring is more down to color than anything else. The advances of metallurgy now allow metal to be formed into almost any shape and color, so this is less of an issue. In traditional designs, like Celtic wedding rings for example, the choices tend to be more traditional.
With modern jewelry, the pieces are taken for what they are. Unless the material used is pertinent to the design, or intention it’s unimportant. Some metals lend themselves to be shaped in particular ways more than others. As some jewelry pieces are molded, others shaped, the choice of metal available will be down to its properties.
For example, we know gold is a soft, malleable metal that can be shaped into almost anything. Palladium or titanium is a harder metal and is more suitable for simple shapes and designs. Depending on the shape and complexity of the design, some options won’t be available as it simply isn’t possible to make them with any degree of success.
Yellow gold is the traditional choice for Celtic wedding rings. It’s soft, malleable and is easy to mold into shape. It’s also relatively straightforward to implement the complex Celtic designs onto it. Aside the practical aspects of the metal, it’s also what Celtic jewelry was traditionally made of.
Silver is also a traditional material that the Celtic tribes used in great quantity. It isn’t so popular now as it tarnishes and scratches quickly. However, it is an unmistakable color, and is available if you really want it. Often, modern silver rings come with an rhodium coating to protect them from damage.
White gold is a relative newcomer to the fold. It’s a combination of gold and other metals to produce a “white” alloy. This metal is ideal for jewelry as it polishes up well and is the ideal setting for precious stones. White gold is becoming increasingly popular for Celtic Wedding Rings as it’s still relatively soft, but can be strengthened to survive the wear and tear of our daily lives.
Platinum is another newcomer to the scene. It is a very hard metal, and quite rare. That makes it expensive, which is off-putting for some. That said, if looked after properly a platinum ring will last much longer than a lifetime. Due to the strength of the material, it’s quite limited in what can be done with it. It’s generally used for simpler or plain wedding ring designs.
Palladium is ideal for those who would love platinum but find it too restrictive or expensive. It’s less prone to damage than gold or silver, but less expensive than platinum, even though it looks just like it.
The choice of metal in Celtic wedding rings depends entirely on what kind of design you want, the color choice and the budget. Those who value the spirituality will often choose the traditional gold or silver, whereas those who are more interested in longevity and value will pick the newer metals.
Tags: Celtic Wedding Rings