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For people in certain professions, like mechanics and electricians, wearing a metal ring on their finger can be dangerous and cause potential injury.
Not only is there the risk of the metal crushing into the finger in case of heavy impact but also of electrical conductivity.
Unfortunately, all metals have some level of conductivity, with certain metals being more conductive than others.
Both gold and copper are highly conductive.
Metals like copper, silver, gold, nickel and zinc have high conductivity while others like tungsten, titanium and stainless steel have low conductivity. Finding a metal that isn’t conductive at all is impossible.
Which brings us to alternative materials that can be fashioned into a wedding band but don’t pose the risks associated with conductive metals.
While these materials are known to be non-conductive, always double check with the individual seller or designer before you purchase as the design could include conductive materials.
Non-Conductive Materials for Wedding Bands
Ceramic Wedding Bands
Ceramic rings are becoming very popular because of the many advantages they offer. They’re non-conductive, comfortable to wear and affordable to purchase. You can purchase a beautifully made ceramic wedding band for around $100 with high-end ones costing around $150.
While it might seem that ceramic is fragile and easily broken, in reality, these rings are extremely durable and tough. They’re harder and less brittle than tungsten (the hardest metal used in jewelry) and can resist impact better than stainless steel.
Ceramic wedding bands are also heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures. They require minimal maintenance as they don’t get scratched, tarnished or corroded.
These rings are in style, fashion forward, highly practical and affordable. They also come in many design options but are typically black.
However, ceramic is often paired with other metals like tungsten or titanium and used in inlays. Look for a ring made only of ceramic for non-conductivity.
Silicone Wedding Bands
Practical his and her silicone wedding bands. See them here.
Silicone is probably the best option for a non-conductive safe ring to wear. It’s safe to wear silicone wedding bands in almost any profession, as silicone rings are flexible, comfortable and have a little give.
Silicone rings are made of silicon rubber, a type of polymer that contains other non-conductive elements like carbon, oxygen and hydrogen in its composition. These rings are hypoallergenic and cause no allergic reactions when you wear them (unless you have a silicone allergy which is extremely rare).
They’re highly durable and can take extreme pressure and exposure without getting damaged. Over time silicone wedding bands will require replacing but because they’re very affordable, it doesn’t cost too much to do this. A typical silicone wedding ring costs around $30.
Rings made from silicone can also be cut in emergencies and come in a range of designs for men and women. They can be made to imitate the look of platinum or gold as you can see in this example.
Resin Wedding Bands
Black and gold resin wedding bands. Find them here.
Resin is a unique material for wedding rings. It’s very workable and gives the designer endless ways to get creative with the rings – incorporating various patterns, textures and colors. Often resin is combined with other metals but opt for a pure resin ring for non-conductivity.
Resin rings are very durable as long as the material used to make them is high-quality and resists yellowing when exposed to sunlight. These rings are easy to maintain and very affordable. On average, you can find beautiful resin rings for around $30.
Most resin rings are designed for women, incorporating bright colors and floral elements. But there are also masculine designs available in neutral colors.
While resin isn’t as durable an option as ceramic rings, it’s durable enough to wear for a long time.
Wood Wedding Rings
Bentwood wedding ring. Find it here.
Wood wedding rings are a unique option that are perfect for people looking for a safe, non-conductive and comfortable wedding ring. Although they may seem fragile, wooden rings are highly durable and can last a very long time with reasonable care. Most wood rings are coated with sealants that keep the ring from water damage, and some hardwood varieties are very durable and can withstand a fair amount of exposure.
Certain wood types are also very symbolic, adding an extra layer of meaning to your ring. For example, oak wood symbolizes courage and strength and maple wood is the traveler’s wood representing optimism, promise and offering. There are also ‘birth woods’ corresponding to the different months of the year.
Most wood used to create wooden wedding rings are sustainably sourced, but always check with the seller to make sure you’re getting an environmentally friendly ring. Wood rings range in price, depending on the quality of workmanship and materials used. Typically, you can find an excellent wooden wedding ring for around $100.
Bone or Antler Wedding Rings
Wedding ring made from naturally shed deer antler. Find it here.
This is one of the more unique options on this list and one that most people wouldn’t even think about. Deer antlers and bone are two unique materials that can be used to create non-conductive wedding rings as long as the design doesn’t contain any metal.
Most deer antler rings are made using shed antlers, meaning that they’re ethically sourced and sustainable. The trouble with these materials is that designs are limited and finding solid rings made of these materials can be a challenge.
Like any other material used for wedding rings, these have to be given reasonable care to ensure they last a long time. Check with the retailer as to the care instructions as this can vary from seller to seller depending on the ring design and the materials used.
Antler or bone rings are ideal for people who love hunting, the outdoors, nature or just anything unique.
Wrapping Up…
So there you have it, 5 non-conductive materials for your wedding rings. As always, double check with the retailer about the specific ring design and ask them about the conductivity of the piece as this can vary depending on the materials used.
For more design options, consider a combination like ceramic with wood inlay or wood and resin rings.
