Surgical Steel Wedding Bands

From LoveToKnow EngagementRings

Choosing surgical steel wedding bands can be an affordable, practical, and attractive option for many couples. With many ring designs available from many jewelers, there are beautiful steel rings available for any type of wedding.

Surgical vs. Stainless Steel

Surgical steel is actually a specialized type of stainless steel. There are dozens of stainless steel alloys available, and those rated “surgical steel” are easy to clean and sterilize, have exceptional strength, and strongly resist corrosion, making them perfect for surgical applications such as tools or implants.

Surgical stainless steel is an iron and carbon alloy with other metals such as chromium, nickel, and molybdenum added to the blend for better medical properties. The exact percentages of each metal in the alloy vary depending on its intended use. Chromium, for example, can range from 13 to 26 percent of the composition, and higher levels will resist corrosion and light damage such as scratches more effectively.

The most popular grade of surgical stainless steel used for jewelry is 316L steel that contains less than .03 percent carbon. This type of steel can be refinished and repaired by any jeweler, and it is popularly used for wedding bands.

Benefits of Choosing Steel Rings

Couples may choose stainless or surgical steel wedding bands for a number of reasons, such as…

  • Cost: Steel rings can cost as little as $10 for an attractive plain band to $200 or higher for wider, thicker bands set with detailed inlays or gemstones. Compared to other choices such as gold, platinum, titanium, or tungsten wedding rings, however, steel rings are much more affordable.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Steel rings are completely recyclable, and eco-conscious manufacturers may even craft rings entirely from recycled metals. Because the components of steel are readily available, environmentally destructive mining techniques are not required to make these rings.
  • Metal Sensitivity: Surgical steel rings are hypoallergenic, making them the perfect choice for anyone allergic to precious metals without needing to sacrifice wearing a lovely wedding ring.
  • Uniqueness: Steel rings, though growing in popularity, are still an unusual and distinctive choice for couples interested in unique wedding rings.

Steel Wedding Ring Designs

No matter why couples may be interested in steel wedding bands, they will find a range of beautiful options to choose from. Popular designs for steel rings include:

  • Plain bands in varying widths and shapes, including domed and flat ring designs
  • Gemstone and diamond wedding rings in scatter or channel settings
  • Textured, grooved, etched, or carved wedding bands
  • Themed rings with waves, crosses, biker designs, animals, or other symbols
  • Inlaid rings mixed with colored enamel, yellow gold, platinum, or other contrasting materials
  • Different polishes, including highly glossy finishes or a subdued matte finish
  • Body jewelry and other unique alternative wedding rings, such as belly rings or toe rings

Where to Find Surgical Steel Wedding Bands

Most chain jewelry stores do not regularly carry stainless steel wedding rings, but couples can find steel jewelry through alternative boutiques and independent crafters. Online retailers also offer a range of surgical steel designs for all style preferences and prices ranges. Popular online jewelers featuring steel rings include:

  • Elegant Jewelry: A widely varied collection of steel wedding rings, including etched and carved designs, textured rings, and diamond bands.
  • Just Men’s Rings: Several varieties of men’s wedding rings, including themed designs, inlaid rings, and various widths.
  • Huggzbears.com: Selection of popular steel ring designs, including grooved and textured rings and gold inlays.
  • Sabrina Silver: Large collection of steel wedding bands with etching, stones, and themes.
  • Silver Thailand: Small collection of surgical and stainless steel rings in textured and carved designs.

Surgical steel wedding bands are a unique and lovely option for many couples, for many reasons. No matter what a wedding ring is made of, as long as it symbolizes the commitment that two people share then it will be the most beautiful and most valuable piece of jewelry they own.

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