As tungsten carbide grows in popularity, so too do the number of styles, finishes, and colors. Black Tungsten, Gold Tungsten, even Blue Tungsten are being used in jewelry. I myself did not offer these options for a very long time. However, customers have voted with their inquiries, and I now have a few options to choose from. Despite their increasing popularity, I do not believe color-coated tungsten carbide rings are presented with appropriate disclaimers.

Tungsten carbide, straight out of the mold in which it is created, is a dark, dull grey. If the material in your ring is any other color, it is because it is being coated with a substance to give it that color. This coating absolutely does not possess the hardness of tungsten carbide. Though durable (it certainly isn’t going to wash off in any conditions), it is vulnerable to wear though the simple, normal activities rings are subjected to during wear: turning door handles, holding railings, manual labor. The color will wear off. It cannot be restored. It is only a matter of time.

The coated tungsten I use in my shop is the most durable you will find anywhere. That said, the color on that ring is going to scratch and wear off eventually. How long that will take depends entirely on what kinds of adventures your hands get into.