Not all metals cause redness, rashes and skin irritation. Some options not just look great, but are also skin-friendly. In the world of fine jewelry, we call them hypoallergenic metals; here are three of them that you can consider choosing for your precious ring.
Hypoallergenic Metals: The Best Choice for Engagement and Wedding Rings
1) Platinum
Coveted by many for its elegant sheen and silvery hue, platinum is the most well-known hypoallergenic metal available today. Its durability and scratch-resistance properties also make it a great choice for those who lead an active lifestyle. We recommend opting for PT950 grade, which is 95% platinum while the remaining 5% is a combination of non-allergenic metals like palladium, iridium, and ruthenium.
Pros
- High resistance to corrosion
- Will not tarnish or oxidize
- Perfect for everyday wear
Cons
- In comparison to gold, platinum is expensive. This is because precious metals are priced by weight, and platinum happens to be much denser than gold.
2) Sterling Silver
Silver in its purest form is highly malleable. Sterling silver, on the other hand, comprises of 92.5% pure silver (hence the hallmark 925), while the rest is made up of other metals, but mostly copper. This combination enhances durability and makes it hypoallergenic as well because copper is a pure element that’s safe on skin.
Sometimes, however, nickel can be present in the combination, which may cause allergies. So make it a point to opt for sterling silver that is marked as ‘nickel-free’.
Pros
- One of the most affordable hypoallergenic metals available today
- Rhodium-plated sterling silver looks similar to white gold
- It’s a versatile option, suitable for a large variety of fine jewelry
Cons
- It’s susceptible to scratches and other damages that may occur during daily wear
- May tarnish and oxidize easily due to the presence of copper
- Metals used to create sterling silver may or may not be hypoallergenic in nature, so you will need full disclosure on the exact composition.
3) 18K Yellow Gold
While many prefer metals with a white sheen, others crave the allure of warm yellow gold, which also happens to be a hypoallergenic metal.
Like sterling silver, 18k yellow gold too is an alloy i.e., it is 18 parts pure gold and 6 parts other metals, usually 15% copper, 10% silver – both of these are skin-friendly.
Pros
- More affordable in comparison to platinum
- Durable and fit for everyday wear
- Exudes a warm, traditional vibe
Cons
- Can develop scratches and may need re-polishing
- May not be suitable for those with a more contemporary sense of style
Parting Note
The engagement ring and wedding rings are special and important pieces of jewelry that you’ll most probably end up wearing every day. Most of us tend to focus on the gemstone/s and overall design of the ring, but the metal is a very crucial detail that must be given equal consideration.
If you have particularly sensitive skin or have experienced metal allergies in the past, it would be best to avoid them and opt for the safer options mentioned above. We hope this article helps you make the best decision.
Happy Shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Unsure about your ring size?
Take a look at our ring size chart to find the perfect fit.
