The Extensive Guide to buying a Tantalum Wedding Ring, including Pros and Cons

Are you looking for a wedding band that is both unique and durable?

 

 

Look no further than a tantalum wedding ring! In this extensive guide to buying a Tantalum wedding Ring, we will look at how this lesser-known metal is becoming increasingly popular among couples looking for an alternative wedding band to traditional options like platinum or gold. In this comprehensive guide, I will explore the pros and cons of tantalum wedding bands, as well as everything you need to know before making your purchase. From its history to its care instructions, I've got you covered.

So let's dive in and discover why tantalum just might be your perfect wedding band match! 

So, what is Tantalum?

 

 

Tantalum is a chemical element with the symbol Ta and atomic number 73. It is a rare, hard, blue-grey, lustrous transition metal that is highly corrosion-resistant. Tantalum is found in minerals such as tantalite, columbite, and wolframite. It is used in electronic capacitors and surgical implants.

Tantalum was discovered in 1802 by Swedish chemist Anders Gustaf Ekeberg. He named it after the Greek mythological figure Tantalus, who was punished by Zeus for stealing nectar from the gods and giving it to mortals. The name tantalum comes from the Greek word ταντάλος (tantalos), which means "sufferer" or "in distress".

Tantalum has a melting point of 3017°C, a boiling point of 5458°C, and an atomic weight of 180.948 g/mol. It is found in Group 5 of the periodic table, between molybdenum and tungsten. Tantalum is chemically similar to niobium, and they are often used together in alloys.

 

What are Tantalum Wedding Bands?

 

 

When it comes to wedding bands, there are a lot of options out there. But what are tantalum wedding bands? And more importantly, should you choose one for your big day?

Tantalum is a rare metal that is most often used in the production of electronic components. It's also becoming increasingly popular in the jewellery industry due to its unique properties. Tantalum is incredibly strong and durable. It has a luxurious heft (weight) similar to platinum and is very comfortable to wear. It's also hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.

Tantalum wedding rings are a beautiful and unique option, perfect for every day wear. But they do have some drawbacks that you should be aware of before making your final decision. The cost of Tantalum wedding rings, is just below 9ct gold but higher than similar Titanium rings. This is because of the rarity of Tantalum and the difficulties in working the metal. Additionally, because it's such a rare metal, it can be difficult to find jewellers who specialize in working with it. But as you are here on Anthony Alferev, look no further. Tantalum wedding bands are definitely worth the investment if you're looking for something truly special.

 

Pros of Tantalum Wedding Bands

 

There are a few reasons why you might want to consider a tantalum wedding band over other types of rings. First, tantalum is an extremely hard metal, making it very durable. Similar to Platinum, the metal will not wear away over time, like a low caret gold ring. This can be a great option for those who work with their hands or are active in sports, as the ring will withstand a lot of wear and tear. Another important benefit of a Tantalum ring, is that it can be cut off in case of emergency, with a jeweller’s ring removal tool.
Secondly, tantalum is a hypoallergenic metal, so if you have sensitive skin or are allergic to certain metals, this could be a good option for you.
Finally, there is the stylish greyish-blue colour, I do not plate or treat my Tantalum rings, so the colour will never change. Our Tantalum has been tested by the Sheffield Assay Office and is confirmed as 99.9% pure Tantalum. This makes it more pure than platinum wedding rings!

Cons of Tantalum Wedding Bands

 

If you're considering a tantalum wedding band, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making your final decision. While tantalum bands are incredibly strong and durable, they can cost a little more than say a Titanium or Tungsten alternative. Additionally, because tantalum is a rare metal, it can be difficult to find a jeweller who specializes in working with it, should you need an alteration in the future. But I am here for that. For alterations or refinishing, please contact me to arrange any service.

For some, maybe the weight of the metal would be a draw back. At first you will feel the ring on your finger but within a couple of weeks this will stop, and it will feel very strange when you do not have the ring on.

At the moment there tends to be more Men's tantalum wedding rings than women’s tantalum wedding rings. This is because Tantalum can not currently be used to make fine jewellery, it is advised to have a wedding ring in the same metal as your engagement ring.

Finally, because tantalum is such a hard metal, it can be difficult for most jewellers to resize. Again, I have you covered. To get the fit perfect from the beginning, we offer a free Home Ring Sizing kit to all our customers. And should you require a resize further down the road, I offer a Tantalum ring resizing service. I do find that I resize a lot of Tantalum rings for customers who have purchased their Tantalum wedding ring from another jeweller who are unable to offer this!

How to Care for a Tantalum Wedding Band?

 

Tantalum is almost eternally durable and doesn't really require special care. Like all jewellery, it will scratch and develop its own natural wear pattern over time, although at a much slower rate than softer metals like silver or gold.
Taking care of tantalum is very easy though. Put your tantalum ring in a bowl of warm soapy water for a few minutes. Then remove your ring and gently brush the surfaces with a soft cloth. Taking a shower with your ring will also naturally clean it.
We recommend taking off your tantalum ring when visiting the gym, lifting heavy items or swimming in the sea (due to the possible finger size fluctuation in cool water).

When not worn, store your tantalum pieces in soft cloth bags or the original box to protect them from the elements of daily exposure. Tantalum does not tarnish, and will develop a natural wear pattern over time.
Of course, no metal is completely scratchproof, but because it’s flexible properties, marks can be easily polished off.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your tantum wedding band will stay looking beautiful for years to come. As with almost all metals that are used for jewellery, your Tantalum ring will pick up scratches from the very first day that you put it on.
Tantalum is a very strong, hard-wearing metal but it is not surface hard like Tungsten or diamond. It will develop it’s own wear pattern. These small marks can be seen as a history of your married life. Should you wish to have the ring periodically refinished to its original beauty, you can return it to Anthony Alferev for us to restore it for you.

Different Styles of Tantalum Wedding Bands

 

Titanium is one of the most popular metals for wedding bands, but tantalum is a lesser-known option that can offer an alternative look because of its colour. Here are some of the different styles of tantalum wedding bands that you may want to consider:

1. Tantalum Rings with surface finishes

 

A classic wedding ring shape but with any number of surface finishes, will really make you band stand out. Choose from: Matt finish, brushed finished, hammered finish, sand blast and many types of textured surface.

2. Tantalum Rings with Inlays

 

 

 

 

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Inlays are a popular design element for many types of jewellery, and they can also be incorporated in tantalum rings. This type of ring typically features a band of tantalum with an inlay of another material, such as Rose Gold, Carbon Fibre, or even set with diamonds. Inlays add visual interest to the ring and can create an interesting look that is perfect for couples who want something a little different.

3. Tantalum Rings with Engravings

 

Engraving is another popular way to personalise wedding rings, and it can be done on tantalum rings as well. Usually engraving will incorporate your names, dates, initials, or any other special message and symbols. This would tend to be inside the ring. Engravings add a personal touch to the ring and make it even more special. This is offered free with any Tantalum Ring purchase

At Anthony Alferev, I am excited to be releasing a new collection of rings with special designs engraved on the outside of the ring. Such as a Celtic Knot wedding ring design, claddagh, floral, Sci-Fi or any design that you can imagine!

4. Tantalum Bands with Diamonds

 

Diamonds are always a popular choice for wedding bands, and they can be added to tantalum rings as well. Tantalum bands with diamonds can be a little more expensive than other types of rings. This is due to the hardness of the metal. When setting Diamonds into Tantalum, the setting tool can only be used once before it becomes blunt. With gold or platinum, the tool can be used over and over. I can use regular or Coloured Diamonds in your Tantalum ring, please contact me for any enquiries.

Custom made rings

Contact me and we can make the ring you have designed

Why I do not make Black wedding ring in Tantalum
Black Tantalum rings are created through a propriety heating and cooling process. This creates a dark layer on the surface of the Tantalum. Darkened tantalum is pure tantalum and does not have any added coatings, however, this darkened layer will scratch off to reveal the natural colour of the Tantalum below and can not be restored. With a little time and wear, your wedding ring will look quite different from when you first put it on.

Tantalum or Titanium Wedding Bands?

 

I would think that you started looking for a Titanium wedding ring first then came across Tantalum and were drawn to its amazing colour. Both metals have their own unique pros and cons that you should take into account before making your final decision.

Tantalum is a relatively new metal that is becoming increasingly popular for wedding bands. It is extremely strong and, in most cases, can be resized in the future. Tantalum is also hypoallergenic, so it is a good choice for those with sensitive skin. It can be hard to find a Tantalum ring in a shop, making it hard to get a feel for the material before making a purchase. With Anthony Alferev, you can visit us either in our Hatton Garden (London) office or at our Studio in Colchester Essex.

Alternatively, if you live to far away to visit, we will happily send a Tantalum sample ring to you once you have made your online purchase. Should you change you mind once you have a feel for the metal, we will refund you upon receiving the sample ring back.

Titanium is another popular choice for wedding bands. It is very strong and lightweight, making it comfortable to wear. Titanium is also hypoallergenic and will not cause skin irritation. The main downside to titanium is that it can be difficult to resize, so make sure you get sized correctly before ordering your ring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tantalum wedding bands are a great option for couples looking to express their love and commitment in a unique way. They have the advantage of being strong and durable while still having an edgy, modern look. With proper care and maintenance, your tantalum wedding band will last you a lifetime and serve as a reminder of your special day for years to come!