Since ancient times, the wedding ring has been the main symbol associated with marriage. Interestingly, though, it was only during the last century that the great majority of men also began wearing wedding rings. Thus, with respect to history, widespread use of men's wedding rings is a relatively new phenomenon.

Nevertheless, both men's and women's wedding rings symbolize the same time-honored qualities - such as commitment, permanence, and strength of union. Over time, of course, these highly symbolic items have developed into styles as unique as the men and women that wear them.

A closer look at the evolution of men's wedding rings...

As mentioned above, the use of wedding rings for both partners is a relatively recent innovation. According to Wikipedia, the origin of the practice is uncertain, but it was never widespread. Yet by the late 1940s, double-ring ceremonies made up for 80% of all weddings, as opposed to 15% before the Great Depression. Obviously, changing social perspectives, and perhaps some good marketing, have led to considerable change.

Until the last few decades, men's wedding rings were made mostly from the typical precious metals of the day: gold, platinum, and silver. Although many still opt for these traditional metals, there is a growing segment of wedding-bound men (no pun intended) that are choosing rings made of metals that were simply non-existent in times past. One of the foremost among these modern super-metals is Tungsten Carbide.

Convey that sense of "permanence"...

In an extraordinary process, Tungsten and Carbide powders are forged together at a serious 6,200 degrees (tungsten has the highest melting point of all metals) to form rings that are almost indestructible. Tungsten Carbide is a noticeably heavy metal-ceramic alloy and is virtually scratch-proof.

Tungsten is a naturally occurring element. It occurs in rocks and minerals combined with other chemicals, but it is not found naturally as a pure metal. Pure tungsten is a white to steel gray metal (depending on purity) that is used in pure form, or is mixed with other metals to make alloys. When left in its pure form, Tungsten is quite malleable and can easily be processed. However, when finely ground tungsten is mixed with pure carbon (yep, think charcoal), pressed, and then fired at extremely high temperatures, the Tungsten Carbide alloy is formed - and it is indeed an amazing material!

On Moh's Scale of Mineral Hardness, Tungsten Carbide scores between 8.5 and 9 (compare with gold at 2, platinum at 4, and diamond at 10). It is roughly 10 times harder than 18k gold and four times harder than titanium. Tungsten Carbide is incredibly hard to scratch! As a result, a tungsten carbide ring must be cut and polished with diamond tools. Rings made from tungsten carbide are not even sizable by ordinary jewelers' tools - the metal is simply too hard. In other words, men can work on the car, workout at the gym, do anything - and the ring will always look like the day you bought it. This is simply not true with other metals. In fact, a quality Tungsten Carbide jewelry manufacturer will offer a lifetime warranty against any visible scratches.

Many Tungsten Carbide rings of fine jewelry quality are being crafted today. Requiring a 30+ step process, the cutting and shaping of a tungsten carbide ring is similar in many ways to the cutting and polishing of a rough diamond. Tungsten carbide rings inlaid with gold, silver, platinum, or mokume gane are also offered. After skillful polishing with diamond polishing tools and wheels, a tungsten carbide ring will possess a permanent luster simply impossible to achieve with other metals... Tungsten Carbide is a perfect choice, in both function and symbolism, for today's man.

Choosing Wisely...

One important note when choosing a tungsten carbide ring: Make sure you ask your jeweler which binder was used in the manufacturing process. Many manufacturers of tungsten carbide rings use cobalt as a binder, as it is a cheaper ingredient than the alternative - nickel. Over time, cobalt reacts with the oils in our skin and will lead to a tarnished ring. The wise option is tungsten carbide produced with a nickel binder. The material will not tarnish or irritate skin. Make sure you ask this important question, and choose only a cobalt-free Tungsten Carbide ring.

Tungsten Carbide definitely appeals to men, and its popularity as the man's ring is growing. In addition to its amazing toughness, guys like the steely color, the impressively heavy weight, and the typically wider widths. Tungsten Carbide rings look and feel masculine, are crafted into many modern, cutting-edge designs, and are even affordable - the average cost is under $300.

Return to the symbolism of a wedding ring and consider the qualities of an enduring relationship... Tungsten Carbide makes a good case for metal of choice: Its fiery origins, solid weight, and enduring polish speak of commitment, security and an everlasting bond.