Even though yellow gold is the classic choice for engagement rings, couples today have a wide variety of metals to choose from when picking out the perfect ring. In fact, multi-tone rings are becoming increasingly popular as a unique alternative to using only one metal, and have a distinctive look all their own.

Types of Metal Used for Multi-Tone Rings

Any metal that you find in an engagement ring can typically be used as part of a multi-tone ring. Take the time to become familiar with your different options:

Usually bought in 14k or 18k versions, yellow gold is the classic metal used in engagement rings. The smaller the carat value, the less expensive it is.

White gold, a beautiful alternative to yellow gold, looks beautiful as the backdrop for a diamond or other gemstone. However, because the rhodium coating on white gold can wear away over time, white gold rings require more upkeep.

Platinum, on the other hand, is one of the most durable engagement ring metals and one of the most expensive. Even with daily wear, platinum’s sheen and brilliance will not wear away such as with white gold.

If you are looking for a more affordable metal, silver is usually quite inexpensive. However, this metal requires frequent polishing to keep its shine.

Titanium, often used in men’s engagement rings, offers a distinctive and durable look. This metal is typically used in more modern rings, and can actually be treated to appear in lovely shades of blue and purple.

Though more rare than regular yellow and white gold, colored gold offers a distinctive and beautiful look for the bride-to-be who wants something a little more unique. Colored gold can be in a variety of shades, including a pale pink (referred to as rose gold) or even shades of green.

Multi-Tone Ring Styles

When shopping for a multi-tone engagement ring, you have several designs to choose from. Many Celtic engagement rings use multiple metals, usually in the form of intricate knots or braids.

Alternatively, different metals can be used as accents in the ring, such as words, arches or other symbols. Multi-tone engagement rings often use one metal as detailing on the edges or rim of the ring to complement the overall design, as well.

Multi-tone engagement rings do not always use diamonds or other gemstones as the focal point of the ring (although they can,) but the distinctive look of muliple metals serves as the basis for the ring design itself and as such, some gems may detract from the overall design. As a general rule, the more rare the metals are, the less likely it is to use gemstones in the design.

When considering the cost of a multi-tone engagement ring, they can often be less expensive than a traditional ring depending on the metals used. If you use inexpensive metals, such as silver or yellow gold, it will be cheaper than a multi-tone ring with rarer metals and gemstones.

Multi-tone engagement rings are becoming a popular choice for the bride-to-be who desires a distinctive, beautiful ring that is a unique alternative to a classic design. With the proper care, your multi-tone engagement ring will be a beautiful symbol of a couple’s love and comittment to one another for many years to come.