Tungsten
What is Tungsten
Tungsten is a chemical element with the symbol W and atomic number 74. It is a hard, dense, and rare metal known for its high melting point, strength, and durability. Tungsten has the highest melting point of all metals at 3,422 degrees Celsius (6,192 degrees Fahrenheit). It is also known as wolfram, derived from the mineral wolframite, which is the primary ore used to produce tungsten.
Tungsten has a wide variety of applications in alloys, such as incandescent light bulb filaments, X-ray tubes, electrodes in gas tungsten arc welding, superalloys, and radiation shielding. It's also used in military applications as penetrating projectiles. Tungsten compounds are often used as industrial catalysts and, interestingly, it is the only metal in the third transition series that is known to occur in biological molecules, albeit in small amounts.
The immensely powerful explosions of massive stars are believed to be the origin of tungsten, as they rocket the newly-formed element across the universe at speeds of up to 30,000 km/s - that's 10% the speed of light!
This incredible force of energy scatters tungsten far and wide, resulting in roughly 1.5 parts per million in theEarth's crust, or about 1.5 grams per ton of rock.
Tungsten, a lustrous and silvery-white grey metal, is known for its remarkable properties that make it an ideal choice for various applications. As one of the hardest known substances in the world, a few of the extremeley imporessive properties of tungsten include the highest melting point of all metals, excellent corrosion resistance, and impressive tensile strength at high temperatures. These unique characteristics have led to its widespread use in various industries, including the jewelry industry.
Tungsten's History and Milestones
Tungsten is a metal that has played a significant role throughout history, from its discovery to its various applications. Its unique properties and abundance make it an essential element in many industries.
Our exploration of the history of tungsten takes us back to ancient China, through the Middle Ages, and into the late 18th century when the tungsten element was first discovered. In 1781, Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele found an unknown mineral while analyzing a sample of heavy black ore. However, it wasn't until 1783 that another Swedish chemist, Torbern Bergman, identified this new mineral as distinct from any known substance at the time. This discovery led to the recognition of tungsten as a separate element.Pure Tungsten vs. Tungsten Carbide
It's also important to understand the difference between pure tungsten and tungsten carbide. Pure tungsten is a silver-white metal that is very hard, but also brittle. Because of this, pure tungsten is not typically used in quality ring making. Pure tungsten rings are made from only tungsten, whereas tungsten carbide rings are made from a combination of tungsten and carbon. This difference in composition makes tungsten carbide rings much stronger and more durable than pure tungsten rings.
Men's Tungsten Wedding Bands are created from an incredibly durable alloy of 80% Tungsten and 20% Carbon alloyed with other metals. Tungsten carbide rings more scratch-resistant than pure tungsten, making them perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle or work in a hands-on environment. In terms of appearance, we offer a couple different colors of tungsten carbide rings; one being a classic gray and also a lustrous white, both of which will permanently hold a polish. Tungsten is exceptionally strong, hypoallergenic, highly scratch-resistant, and tarnish-resistant with a substantial feel in weight.
The Facts on Tungsten
- Tungsten carbide, a compound of tungsten and carbon, is one of the hardest known substances, second only to diamonds.
- The natural gunmetal gray color of tungsten can be plated in black, white, or gold, allowing for versatile and stylish jewelry options.
- Despite its strength, tungsten carbide rings can be removed in emergency situations by jewelers or medical professionals.
- Tungsten has been used for over 350 years, with its first known use being a unique peach-colored pigment in Chinese porcelain.
- Rings made of tungsten can be engraved using laser engraving tools, allowing for personalized and intricate designs on the durable metal.
Tungsten's Benefits
| The Benefits of Tungsten | The Disadvantages of Tungsten |
|---|---|
| Tungsten is the most scratch-resistant metal known to man, ensuring that your ring will maintain its polished appearance for years to come. | Due to tungsten's hardness, tungsten carbide jewelry can be brittle and may crack or shatter if subjected to significant force |
| Tungsten rings are incredibly strong and resistant to wear, making them ideal for everyday use. | Tungsten rings cannot be resized as your finger changes over time, which may require purchasing a new ring if your size changes |
| Tungsten rings are more affordable than gold or platinum, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. | Tungsten does not hold its cash value like gold, making a ring made from tungsten difficult to pawn or resell. |
| Tungsten rings are available in various styles, colors, and inlays, allowing for a personalized and unique look. | Tungsten is denser and heavier than other metals, which may be uncomfortable for some individuals who prefer lightweight jewelry. |
Tungsten Ring Care and Maintenance
Regular cleaning is crucial to maintaining the luster of your tungsten ring. To clean your ring, follow these simple steps:
Cleaning Your Tungsten Ring
- Mix a cleaning solution: Combine one cup of warm water with three drops of mild dishwashing liquid in a small bowl. Avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, or bleach, as they can damage the ring's finish.
- Remove and inspect your ring: Before cleaning, remove your ring and inspect it for any dirt or debris.
- Soak the ring in the cleaning solution: Place your tungsten ring in the soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or grime.
- Gently scrub the ring: Use a soft cloth or toothbrush to gently scrub the ring, paying special attention to any hard-to-reach areas, such as gemstones or ridges.
- Rinse and dry the ring: After cleaning, rinse your ring thoroughly with warm water and pat it dry with a clean cloth.