Cobalt rings making waves in the market for several reasons. There is the simplicity of it, the fact that it is durable and retains its luster. Let’s look at what more there is to know about cobalt to help you make the right call for you moving forward.
Questions and answer about cobalt rings- If you want to read 21 tungsten ring related questions, read here. Here is a post on stainless steel rings Q&A.
What is cobalt rings made of?
Cobalt is a pure metal, just the same way that silver, tungsten, and platinum are pure elements. On the Periodic table, it is referred to as a transitional metal. That said, you will find that in-ring making cobalt is alloyed with other metals such as chromium to increase its durability.
It also makes it better for more extended wear. Other metal it gets alloyed with is tungsten, and small amounts of iron, manganese, carbon, silicon, and molybdenum.
Are cobalt chrome rings safe?
Overall, cobalt chrome rings are safe. The chrome in the ring is meant to strengthen the metal. They are also safe to wear for several reasons that we shall discuss further, especially for people who have allergies to some of the metals used in the market.
Are cobalt rings hypoallergenic?
Generally, in the jewelry industry, you will find that cobalt rings get alloyed with chromium, tungsten, and small amounts of iron, manganese, carbon, silicon, and molybdenum. However, you will find that some jewelers are using nickel to strengthen the properties of cobalt.
Nickel is a commonly known allergen where the skin gets red and develops rashes. Therefore, before making the purchase, ensure that you confirm with the vendor if it does or doesn’t have nickel.
Overall, cobalt rings that are without nickel are hypoallergenic. Cobalt chrome is also getting used to making hip and knee replacements because of their bio-compatible nature and resistance to wear. Given that it is safe to wear on the inside of your body, then it is safe on the outside too.
Are cobalt rings durable?
The other reason chrome gets used is that it gives a ring the closest look to white gold. For the untrained eye, cobalt chrome and white gold look like the same. When it comes to the gleaming of the ring, most people liken these rings to rhodium-plated white gold. It is also durable compared to the others as it can maintain the white sheen for a long time.
Even as we mention that it is durable, the issue with cobalt is that it cannot be shaped into intricate shapes and styles. That means that the cobalt rings that you purchase will be somewhat plain. However, for a bit more, you can get in engraved with your name or that of your loved one. For that reason, men tend to gravitate toward cobalt than women’s rings.
Will cobalt rings scratch?
All rings do scratch, and cobalt is no exception, especially where diamonds are concerned. The difference it has over other rings, such as titanium, is that it has higher scratch resistance. That is meant to say that it does have extremely high resistance to scratching and thus will keep its luster even under the daily wear and tear that we take our rings through.
Will cobalt rings shatter?
Cobalt does not shatter under pressure. ( here are 2 types of the ring will shatter under pressure.) What they do instead is that they bend. Do note that for that to happen, you will have to apply a lot of stress. When that happens, you can always take it to the jeweler to see if they can put the ring back together. That will, however, depend on how the cut has gotten made.
Are cobalt rings resizable?
Yes, you can resize cobalt, which is unlike other metals such as titanium or tungsten. Therefore, when your finger gets too large or small for the ring, you can take it to the jeweler for them to resize it. You can do the same if you want to hand it down to someone in the family if the ring has sentimental value.
Are cobalt rings expensive?
Cobalt rings are not as expensive when compared to precious metals. They are, however, slightly more expensive than titanium or tungsten. That is not uncommon, primarily because of the popularity cobalt rings have gained over the years. They are also affordable, and a good alternative for the couple is just starting in life. In the long run, it is also cheaper when you look at the somewhat minimal maintenance that you have to take the ring through to keep it looking new.
Are cobalt rings good?
Given the properties that cobalt chrome has, you’re expected to have the ring for a long time, and it remains in relatively good condition. Given that it is scratch resistance, you can wear it around your daily duties and not have to worry about it losing its luster. If happens, you can always get a polish cloth to get the shine back or take it to the jeweler.
Are cobalt rings heavy?
Cobalt rings are not heavy, and that is what people appreciate about them. It is lighter compared to platinum. Overall they are comfortable to wear for both males and females. You can wear it round the clock and not feel the weight of it. Not everyone likes the heaviness of a ring when they are going about their day.
Can cobalt rings be cut off your finger?
In the event of an emergency, the medics should be able to use a bolt cutter or something similar to cut the cobalt from your finger. It shouldn’t be a point of concern when it comes to whether or not they can be cut off the ring during an emergency. You can also cut it at home, either by yourself or with some help, should you injure your finger, and it swells, restricting the blood flow.
What is the difference between cobalt and tungsten rings?
The difference between cobalt and tungsten to the eye is the appearance. Cobalt chrome is white gray while tungsten is medium gray. Also, when it comes to density, you’ll find that tungsten is almost twice as dense as cobalt chrome. That said, tungsten is not resizable the same way cobalt chrome is, but it beats the latter when it comes to durability and being scratch-proof.
Which is better titanium or cobalt rings?
When it comes to being better, the difference between titanium and cobalt is personal. However, if you’re looking to have your ring resized, then cobalt is a good bet. That also said, cobalt chrome is whiter than titanium and looks much closer to chrome. What will eventually help you make the decision is what looks pleasant to your eye.
Are cobalt rings conductive?
Cobalt is naturally magnetic, which is not something that you find a lot in other metals. That said, you will find that the cobalt chrome alloy that gets used is not at all magnetic. Also, metals other than gold tend to be low conductors of electricity. If you’re an electrician, you’re safe to wear it.
Will cobalt rings turn finger green?
No, that is because cobalt rings are hypoallergenic. If your finger does turn green, then that is an indicator that it contains nickel or copper, both of which are culprits when it comes to making the finger green.
Conclusion
There is a lot to like about cobalt. We hope that the information here has enabled you to make the right call if you wish to get this metal. The similarities to others also make it clear what to choose. Overall, they do make a good alternative if you want something cheaper that will also last you a long time without having to worry about taking too much care of it.
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Tiger is a fashion&jewelry lover. He is also a fashion jewelry manufacturer that help thousands of small business to grow and also do business with some big fashion jewelry brands. He is a truly metal expert and he will share some information you are looking for.