Thorsten Tungsten

What is Tungsten Carbide?

• What is commonly referred to as tungsten in jewelry is actually tungsten carbide, a compound of the metal tungsten and carbon.


• Tungsten carbide is one of the hardest materials in existence, measuring around a 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness (a diamond rates a 10).


• Tungsten carbide’s hardness makes it very scratch-resistant, and tungsten carbide rings easily maintain their “just purchased” appearance with little to no maintenance.


• Tungsten carbide rings have a distinctly weighty feel that offers an alternative to some of the more lightweight contemporary materials.


• Tungsten carbide rings are not entirely crack-resistant, and can be cracked if struck against a hard enough surface. They can also break if hit against a hard surface or dropped on a hard surface.


• Tungsten rings are not resizable due to their hardness, but are low enough in price that they can be inexpensively replaced.


• Contrary to popular belief, tungsten carbide rings can be removed in case of emergency by cracking them with vise grip pliers or a similar tool.