Find the perfect ring material for your lifestyle and budget.
You’ve probably spent hours thinking about your fiance's engagement ring—the cut, the band, the diamond size, the price (queue palm sweats)—but what about your ring? Mens wedding bands can often seem like an afterthought. But not for you, my discerning, dapper, clever friend. At Manly Bands, we’re here to simplify your search and help you find the perfect ring for your style, budget, and badass personality.
Today, we’re breaking down the benefits of the different material options for mens wedding bands. From the classics like gold and titanium to out-of-this-world options like meteorites and dinosaur bones, there is something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about wedding band materials so you can weigh your options and make the best decision for your unique and awesome wedding band.
What materials are wedding bands made of?
From the ever-classic gold to heavy-weight superstars like tungsten, mens wedding bands are made with a wide range of metals and materials. To make things a little easier, we’ve sorted this plethora of options into four categories: precious metals, alternative metals, specialty materials, and unique + rare materials.
Precious Metals
For centuries, precious metals have been the go-to material choice for mens wedding bands. These timeless metals offer not only durability but also a sense of tradition and luxury that transcends generations. From the regal appeal of gold to the sleek sophistication of platinum to the simple elegance of silver, each precious metal has its own distinct characteristics that make it a classic choice for mens wedding bands.
Precious Metal Options:
Honorable Mention: Diamonds
While not a precious metal, diamonds are welcomed by their fellow ‘precious’ friends into this category based on their righteous status in the stone category, compatibility with precious metals, and growing demand in mens wedding bands (yes, you get diamonds, too, my man!). We’ll talk more about how you can add some bling to different wedding band metals and materials later in this guide.
Alternative Metals
Alternative metals offer a modern twist on the traditional 10K gold wedding band. These relative ‘newcomers’ on the scene have gained popularity in recent years, with many men choosing these metals for their durability, sleek appearance, and affordability. Plus, their unique characteristics make these rings stand out from the crowd, guaranteeing that your wedding band is as distinct and stylish as you.
Alternative Metal Options:
Specialty Materials
If you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind ring, consider browsing wedding bands made with specialty materials like wood, carbon fiber, or even elk antlers (yep, that’s a thing!) Whether you’re looking for an affordable daily driver or a super cool ring with unique inlays and patterns, the specialty materials category has you covered. Plus, all the materials listed below are hypoallergenic, so no itchy red fingers for you!
Specialty Material Options:
Unique + Rare Materials
Step back in time with these unique and rare ring materials. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a wedding band as extraordinary as the ones in this category. These otherworldly options defy convention, adding a blend of mystique and intrigue to your wedding band. From remnants of the ancient world to the depths of space, each material in this category tells a story as unique as your own. Did we mention REAL T-rex bones?!
Unique + Rare Material Options:
A Deep Dive into Wedding Bands by Material
Gold Wedding Bands: For the Refined Gent
Gold wedding bands need no introduction. These timeless bands have dominated the wedding band scene for centuries, and for good reason. Gold bands symbolize a kind of luxury and elegance that will never go out of style. Best of all, you don’t have to break the bank to get some shiny gold on your finger. At Manly Bands, we offer a wide range of classic gold bands – with and without unique inlay options — to fit every style and budget.
Quick Facts: Gold
Titanium Wedding Bands: For the Modestly Chic Modern Man
In recent years, titanium has become a go-to metal for modern mens wedding bands. Known for its lightweight feel and remarkable strength, a titanium wedding band is the perfect choice for active men looking for a minimally flashy ring. Plus, titanium’s hypoallergenic properties ensure a comfortable, itch-free wear for guys with sensitive skin. Whether you’re conquering a mountain peak or the boardroom, titanium bands can withstand the rigors of everyday life while giving you the style and badass look you crave.
Quick Facts: Titanium
Tungsten Wedding Bands: For the Manly Man
Tungsten is one of the most popular choices for modern mens wedding bands. This ‘Manly’ metal is the poster child for substantial mens wedding bands. For those who like a little more heft in their ring, tungsten is a great option. But tungsten’s weight isn’t for everyone, especially for those who spend most of the day typing. All that to say, tungsten is a bold and budget-friendly choice for men who want their wedding band to last.
Quick Facts: Tungsten
Cobalt Chrome Wedding Band: For the Baller on a Budget
If you want an elevated style without breaking the bank, cobalt chrome may be the ring for you. Compared to classics like gold or platinum, cobalt is relatively new to the wedding band scene and is quickly becoming a go-to choice for couples. Cobalt is the only metal that looks exactly like white gold. So, if you dig the look of white gold but don’t want to deal with the maintenance or price tag, cobalt chrome is a great option.
Quick Facts: Cobalt Chrome
Black Zirconium Wedding Bands: For the Dark and Stormy Dude
Black zirconium wedding bands offer a striking and contemporary alternative to traditional wedding bands. These mineral-rich rings start as a simple silver-gray color and are transformed into a bold charcoal-gray finish using a specialized heating process. With their sleek and modern appearance, black zirconium rings are perfect for an edgy aesthetic with a durable and highly versatile construction.
Quick Facts: Black Zirconium
Tantalum Wedding Bands: For the Rugged Everyman
Tantalum is quickly becoming our new favorite for mens wedding band materials. This natural metal offers a plethora of benefits, making it a serious contender for your wedding band search. Tantalum is known for its superior strength and durability, making it ideal for dudes who lead an active lifestyle or work with their hands. Tantalum is also highly versatile, with a wide range of inlays and design options to fit your unique style.
Quick Facts: Tantalum
Wood Wedding Bands: For the Naturalist
When looking for a wedding band that tells the story of your relationship, wood is one of the best materials for the job. We craft our wood wedding bands from a variety of responsibly sourced woods from all over the world. Each ring boasts distinct grain patterns and color variations, ensuring that no two rings are exactly the same. With an array of wood types, inlay options, and material pairing options, our wood rings are guaranteed to be as unique as your love story.
Quick Facts: Wood
Carbon Fiber Wedding Bands: For the Cool Guy
Carbon fiber wedding bands are a great option if you are looking for a lightweight, hypoallergenic ring. Their sleek design offers a contemporary twist on the traditional wedding band. Carbon fiber rings boast impressive strength-to-weight ratios, making them extremely durable yet lightweight and comfortable to wear. With their distinctive woven texture and matte black finish, carbon fiber rings are the perfect choice for someone who wants to make a bold statement without sacrificing functionality.
Quick Facts: Carbon Fiber
Antler Wedding Bands: For the Wild Heart
Nature-inspired and effortlessly rugged, an antler wedding band will surely bring out your wild side. Crafted from ethically sourced deer and elk antlers, each of our antler rings carries a unique story and natural beauty. An antler's rich hues and intricate textures create a one-of-a-kind piece. Whether you’re an avid hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the rustic charm of nature, a wedding band with an antler inlay is a timeless and adventurous choice.
Quick Facts: Antler
Silicone Wedding Bands: For the Practical Man
Versatile, practical, and effortlessly stylish, silicone rings offer a modern twist on the traditional wedding band. Unlike other materials, silicone rings are flexible and highly comfortable, moving with your finger throughout the day. Plus, they’re the most affordable option on this list, so it won’t burn a hole in your pocket to replace it if it gets scratched up or lost in the laundry. Silicone rings are a perfect stand-alone option or an affordable right-hand man if you want to extend the shine and sparkle of your other badass band.
Quick Facts: Silicone
Damascus Steel Wedding Bands: For the Inner Warrior
Exuding a sense of ancient craftsmanship and modern allure, Damascus Steel has gained quite a bit of buzz as a unique and stylish wedding band option. Originating from centuries-old sword-making techniques, Damascus Steel is renowned for its distinctive swirling patterns and unmatched strength. This historic metal pairs well with other metals and is an affordable option for men who want a truly unique ring without sacrificing style or quality.
Quick Facts: Damascus Steel
Meteorite Wedding Bands: For the Cosmic Enthusiast
A meteorite wedding band is a truly ‘out-of-this-world’ option that will no doubt be a conversation starter. Made from an authentic Gibeon meteorite, these bands are some of the most unique and downright badass wedding bands you can find on the market today. This rare and durable cosmic material has an unparalleled allure that is sure to make a stellar statement on your wedding day.
Quick Facts: Meteorite
Dinosaur Bone Wedding Bands: For the Larger than Life Legend
Like its interstellar counterpart, meteorite, our dinosaur bone wedding bands will transport you back to our prehistoric roots. These rings are crafted from 100% genuine dinosaur bone fossils (just ask Ethan, our certified dinosaur bone guy - aka a paleontologist). We ethically source these dinosaur bone fragments directly from museums to support their conservation efforts and bring a piece of history right to your finger. With unique patterns and textures reminiscent of the Jurassic era, our dinosaur bone rings offer a truly distinctive and captivating aesthetic.
Quick Facts: Dinosaur Bone
Diamond Wedding Bands: For the Modern Bourgeois Man
Elevate your wedding band game with the timeless sophistication of diamonds. While you may think diamonds are only for the ladies, we’re here to debunk that myth. Diamond inlays are increasingly becoming a popular choice for mens wedding bands, adding a touch of luxury and sparkle to any ring. These rings feature high-quality diamonds set in durable metals, creating a striking contrast between strength and elegance.
Quick Facts: Diamonds
Well, there you have it—a complete guide to the best wedding band materials for men. As you set off on your search, remember that the material you choose is not just about aesthetics but also durability, comfort, and your personal story.
We’re here 24/7 to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect ring for your unique style and budget. Just drop us a message here, and someone from our Customer Success team will be in touch.
