When we look at gay male engagement rings that speak to more individual emotions and expressions, the field of choices are widening because of the newer markets that busted onto the scene after the Supreme Court edict and voter opinion polls on same-sex marriage emerged.
All past tense now, however; there are betrothals to be made and ring makers actually have some catch-up to do in terms of targeting the LGBT market.
So, without belaboring the pursuit of the perfect man’s engagement ring, let’s looks at some options.
So, where do we start?
First, know that not all that expressions of love are made of gold. Want to express a unique love starting from the very base of a ring? Want to give your man something that can’t be regarded as a “ho-hum, I’ve-seen-this-before” emblem of so many promises? Then let’s explore the different composites for gay male engagement rings as well as the pros and cons that accompany them, shall we?
Tungsten
Want a metal that can withstand the most raging fire in your partner’s heart? It just so happens that tungsten’s melting point of 3410 degrees Celsius tips the top of the scale as rings go. If you still need to temper your love’s flame a bit—say in your favorite restaurant or night spot—just tell him the ring is made from a chemical element with an atomic number of 74. This should sound cold enough to dowse the fire and save it for a more private surrounding.
Tungsten pros—highly resistant to abrasions; harder than gold or silver tenfold and almost as much compared to platinum; twice as hard as steel; color options include gray, black and white; easily customized for fit; hypoallergenic; right price for younger couples.
Tungsten cons—forget resizing; not entirely fracture resistant; if you manage to scratch it, it cannot be re-polished.
Want another fun fact before putting your money on Tungsten? Also, know that black and white tungsten is not quite as abrasion resistant as gray due to the white or black coating.
Cobalt
Need a little more magnetism when you pop the question? Try this hard, silvery white, magnetic metal—atomic No. 27 now that we started the brainiac talk. Who knows? A display of some scientific knowledge might add to your magnetism. An alloy of copper and nickel ore, cobalt emanates a bluish color in its natural state (think of lolling with your love beneath a cobalt sky).
Cobalt pros: Shatterproof; higher scratch resistance than precious metal; can be polished if scarred; emulates the more expensive gold or platinum; can be easily tailored to fit; hypoallergenic; easy on budget.
Cobalt cons: Cannot be resized.
Titanium
Stronger than your man’s abs of steel? Well…yes, technically! This handsome metal is made of the earth’s crust—element No. 22—and gains its deft strength and resilience from ilmenite and rutile. (Try those two on your scientifically endowed mate or just look them up yourself.) Titanium is actually used to lend the whiteness to paper and paint, among other products. It’s a great way to express the brightness of your love for your partner.
Titanium Pros: Again, it won’t break your bank; stronger than steel; lightest of all the choices; can be polished if marred; customizable for fit; hypoallergenic.
Titanium Cons: Cannot be resized.
Silver
Yes, we’re daring to go there! Known as a cheap alternative to many, silver can still muster a spot in today’s romance. Immemorial and once considered more valuable than gold, a pure sterling silver (the hardest type of this relatively soft metal) can actually be presented in a matte finish or an illustrious, shiny coat. However, beware - sterling silver must contain 92.5 percent pure silver to be worthy of a man’s engagement ring.
Before wandering down this route though, consider the cons. In short, be certain beyond a shadow of doubt that it is the specific expression that will thrill your mate.
Silver pros: Holds a nostalgic, romantic value historically (the ancients associated it with the moon—rhymes with swoon); alternate finishes (matte or shiny); can be combined with copper to reinforce its strength; most affordable (so beware when presenting it).
Silver cons: Very soft; scratches easily (even tissue paper can scratch it); tarnishes easily (must be put away at times).
Another “Out-of-the-Box” Option
Also born of the earth, ceramic serves a particular niche when it comes to gay male engagement rings. Remember something about God transforming a clump of clay?
Made of clay but hardened by sheer heat, ceramic possesses many qualities of some metals. It is hard to scratch; it is light, just like titanium; its tone is consistent; it can be tailored to ultimate comfort in fit; it is not a deal breaker for your pocketbook.
And if your significant other gravitates toward pink hues, give this option a try. It can be coated in black or white as well.
As with most alternatives, however, ceramic cannot be resized, and it can be broken.
Don’t Forge Accents
Unlike with alcoholic beverages, mixing metals is totally acceptable! Remember that some of these options can be augmented by each other. Ceramic and silver can be combined with another element, such as the tougher titanium. Consider entering diamonds into the equation if you feel your mate may be circumspect about you buying a more affordable composite than gold. Mix and match at your leisure to suit your lover’s unique taste.
Whichever way you choose to pop the question or show your sincerity, be certain you know what you are buying! And be aware that unlike gold, an alternative material can break, perhaps breaking a heart at the same time.
But who ever said love was not without its peaks and valleys? Embrace choosing the perfect metal for your “oh-so-(almost)-perfect” mate. Because let’s face it, he’s going to leave a dirty dish in the sink from time to time!
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