Choosing Your Metal
Where style meets everyday strength.
How do I choose the right metal for an engagement ring or wedding band?
The metal you choose for your engagement ring or wedding band does more than define the look—it helps shape how your ring fits into your life. Whether you’re hands-on at work, have sensitive skin, or simply love a certain finish, the right metal makes all the difference.
At Lewis Jewelers, we’ll help you find the perfect match—from timeless gold to durable modern metals. Our team will walk you through the pros, the beauty, and the practical side of each one so you feel confident in your choice for the long haul.
We work primarily in yellow and white gold, platinum, and sterling silver, but if you’re looking for something specific—especially for men’s bands—we’re happy to source other options.
Gold
A classic with endless character.
Elegant, dependable, and available in three stunning tones.
Our master jewelers have over a century of combined expertise, blending advanced technology with precision craftsmanship to get every job done right – the first time.
We also provide complimentary inspections and cleanings to help you maintain your jewelry over time—no purchase required.
What's the difference between yellow gold, white gold and rose gold?
- Yellow Gold – The traditional favorite. Its natural warmth pairs beautifully with classic and vintage settings and holds up well over time.
- White Gold – Sleek and bright, white gold is mixed with white metals and plated with rhodium for its signature bright, silvery look. Over time, it may need re-plating to maintain that finish.
- Rose Gold – Romantic and on-trend, rose gold gets its blush tone from copper alloys. It plays well with a variety of skin tones and adds a distinctive touch to any ring.
Platinum
Naturally radiant. Created to endure.
Is platinum durable for an active lifestyle? Yes! It is known for its strength and luxury. It’s heavier than gold, cool in color, and naturally hypoallergenic—making it a favorite for those with sensitive skin or who want something that lasts through every chapter of life. No re-plating needed, ever. Platinum retains its bright finish for decades of normal wear.
Palladium
Understated strength in a lightweight finish.
What is palladium? Palladium is part of the platinum family, offering the same cool tone and resilience, but with a lighter feel. It’s also naturally white and hypoallergenic, and it holds its color over time without extra care.
Sterling Silver
Affordable. Elegant. Best suited for fashion pieces.
Is sterling silver a good metal for engagement rings? Sterling silver has a beautiful luster, but it’s a softer metal that can scratch and tarnish with wear. That’s why we usually recommend it for earrings, bracelets, and pendants rather than engagement rings or wedding bands. Still, it’s a timeless choice for those looking to accessorize on a budget.
Metals for Men’s Bands
Built for real life. Designed to last.
What is the most durable alternative metal available for men’s wedding bands? We can help!
Looking for something resilient, distinctive, or low maintenance? Alternative metals are a popular choice for men’s wedding bands. While we don’t use these materials for engagement rings, we carry a great selection of styles—and we can always help you find something specific.
Bold. Resilient. Built to last.
Tungsten is one of the hardest metals available. Its weight and strength make it perfect for men who want a modern, industrial look. One thing to keep in mind: because of its hardness, tungsten rings can’t be resized.
Scratch-resistant. Skin-friendly. Surprisingly strong.
Four times harder than platinum, cobalt is durable and easy to wear—especially for active lifestyles. It’s hypoallergenic and resists wear over time. Many men opt for cobalt as an everyday band and reserve a gold or platinum ring for more formal occasions.
Strong yet lightweight. Sleek and modern.
Titanium is a go-to for men who want something comfortable, contemporary, and virtually indestructible. It’s extremely light, non-reactive, and skin-safe. Just like tungsten, it’s tough to resize, so getting the right fit from the start is essential.
Easygoing. Durable. A solid everyday choice.
Simple, sleek, and resistant to tarnish and wear, stainless steel is ideal for daily wear. Though not a traditional engagement ring metal, it’s great for bands, fashion pieces, watches, and accessories with staying power.
Need Help Deciding?
With so many great options out there, choosing the right metal can feel like a big decision. Let us help. We’ll talk through how you live, how you wear your jewelry, and what you love—and find the metal that fits all three.
Stop by our South Maple Road showroom or explore our collection online. We’re here to help when you’re ready.
Your Guide to Wedding Band Finishes
Style isn’t just about the metal—it’s in the finish.
When it comes to wedding bands, the finish you choose plays a big role in how your ring looks and feels. From smooth and highly polished to textured and rugged, each finish gives your ring a distinct personality. Jewelers have refined these finishing techniques over centuries—and today, you have more choices than ever.
At Lewis Jewelers, we’re here to guide you through what each option means, so you can find the finish that fits your lifestyle, your personal style, and your story.
What different types of finishes are there for wedding bands?
Satin Finish
Smooth with a soft glow.
A satin finish offers a more understated take on shine. It has a smooth surface like a polished ring, but without the high reflectivity. Instead, it gives off a subtle glow that’s sophisticated and modern. It’s the second most popular finish for wedding bands—and it’s easy to see why.
Matte Finish
Low-shine. High style.
If you prefer a subtle, low-key look, a matte finish might be the right fit. It has a flat, velvety texture that gives off little to no reflection. The result is a soft, contemporary style that feels refined without being flashy—perfect for those who like their ring to blend in rather than stand out.
Hammered Finish
Artisan-made. One-of-a-kind.
Want something truly unique? A hammered finish adds texture and character with a decorative treatment that is created by repeated blows of a small hammer. The results create an all-over pattern of minuscule divots that give the piece a warm glow and catch the light in interesting ways. After being hand-hammered, the ring is often given a soft satin coat for just a hint of glow. It’s a favorite for those who want a ring with handcrafted charm and a slightly rustic edge.
Polished Finish
Classic. Elegant. Eye-catching.
A polished finish is what most people picture when they think of a traditional wedding ring. It’s smooth, shiny, and highly reflective, giving your ring a sleek, timeless look that’s made to stand out. Just a heads-up: that mirror-like shine can show scratches more easily over time. If you love the look but want something more durable, consider pairing it with a strong metal like tungsten.
Brushed Finish
Textured. Stylish. Scratch-friendly.
A brushed finish takes the matte look one step further by adding texture. It’s created using a wire brush to leave fine lines on the surface of the ring, giving it a rugged, lived-in appearance. It’s a great option if you want a finish that won’t show wear as easily—and it's especially popular for men’s wedding bands.
Sandblasted Finish
Bold texture. Built to last.
Sandblasted rings have a rough, grainy texture that gives them a distinctive, rugged look. This finish is completely matte and extremely durable—ideal for people who live active lives or work with their hands. It’s a no-shine finish that’s big on strength and individuality.
