What Is Tungsten?

What Is Tungsten?

Tungsten is a naturally occurring metal known for its exceptional density and hardness. In fact, it is one of the hardest metals used in modern industry.

For jewelry, tungsten is typically used in the form of tungsten carbide, a compound that combines tungsten with carbon to create an extremely durable material.

Because of its strength and weight, tungsten has become a popular choice for rings, especially for those who prefer a solid and substantial feel.


Why Is Tungsten Used for Rings?

Tungsten is valued in jewelry for several reasons:

  • Extremely scratch-resistant
  • Maintains its shape over time
  • Does not bend or easily deform
  • Has a strong, solid weight
  • Offers a modern and clean appearance

Unlike softer metals, tungsten keeps its finish even with regular daily wear.


Is Tungsten Durable?

Yes, tungsten is one of the most durable materials used for rings.

Its hardness makes it highly resistant to scratches and everyday wear. It will not bend out of shape and keeps its structure even under pressure.

However, because tungsten is so hard, it does not flex. Under very strong impact, it may crack rather than bend. This is rare in normal use but important to understand.

For everyday wear, tungsten offers outstanding durability and long-lasting appearance.


Is Tungsten Waterproof?

Tungsten does not rust or tarnish under normal conditions and is resistant to moisture.

You can wear a tungsten ring during everyday activities such as hand washing without concern.

If the ring includes a PVD coating, avoiding prolonged exposure to chlorinated water or harsh chemicals will help preserve the surface finish.


Can Tungsten Rings Be Resized?

No.

Tungsten rings cannot be resized because the material is too hard to bend or adjust.

For this reason, choosing the correct size is essential. We recommend carefully measuring your ring size before ordering and consulting our Ring Size Guide if needed.


Is Tungsten Safe for the Skin?

Jewelry-grade tungsten carbide is generally well tolerated and suitable for most skin types.

It does not easily react with moisture and is unlikely to cause discoloration of the skin.

If you have a known metal allergy, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional before wearing any jewelry.


Tungsten vs Stainless Steel

Both materials are strong, but they offer different characteristics:

Tungsten

  • Heavier and denser
  • Extremely scratch-resistant
  • Does not bend
  • Cannot be resized

Stainless Steel

  • Lighter in weight
  • Strong and corrosion-resistant
  • Slightly more flexible
  • May be easier to adjust in some designs

If you prefer a substantial weight and maximum scratch resistance, tungsten is an excellent choice. If you prefer a lighter feel with slight flexibility, stainless steel may suit you better.