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Jewelry Advance :: Tungsten Necklace
Tungsten Necklace:
Before you Buy a Tungsten Metal Necklace
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If you're considering the purchase of a tungsten necklace, read on for an overview of the metal itself, along with a list of its benefits and drawbacks.
Tungsten Metal
Tungsten is a steely-gray metal known for its strength, durability and affordability. It has an incredibly high melting point, so it's often used for scientific instruments, rocketry components and heating elements. However, tungsten has recently begun to be used as a material for jewelry.
Cheaper
Tungsten is significantly cheaper than platinum or white gold. For example, a platinum necklace would cost you thousands of dollars, depending on the thickness of the chain, but a tungsten necklace would typically cost you under a hundred dollars. Of course, if you're purchasing an artisan or hand crafted piece, you may expect to pay more.
Scratch Resistant
Tungsten metal is significantly more scratch-resistant than other metals like steel or, especially, white gold. The best defense against scratches is purchasing Tungsten carbide, a blend of Tungsten and Carbon.
Hardness
Tungsten is over 10 times harder than your standard 18 karat gold and 4 times harder than typical titanium. If diamonds (the hardest substance in the world) are a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, then tungsten is between an 8 and a 9. This makes the metal very durable and resistant to heavy wear and tear.
Lightweight
Tungsten weighs less than other metals, like platinum. This gives it an easy and lightweight feel that's not cumbersome or awkward. However, if you prefer a necklace with weight and staying power, you may want to opt for another material – because it's so light, tungsten has a tendency to move around the neck.
Not a High-End Metal
Unfortunately, tungsten may be harder, lighter and easier to maintain, but it does not resemble a high-end metal. It can be polished to a high shine or left to look rugged and earthy, but it simply can't replicate the shine and appearance of metals like white gold or platinum. Instead, think of a tungsten necklace as an alternative to these metals, rather than a replacement.
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JewelryAdvance.com :: Tungsten Necklace