When shopping for a tungsten diamond ring, one of the most common questions is: "Will it scratch over time?" Tungsten carbide is praised for its incredible strength, while diamonds are the hardest natural material on Earth. But does that mean your tungsten diamond ring is completely immune to scratches?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore:
✔️ How scratch-resistant tungsten really is
✔️ Whether diamonds can get scratched
✔️ What can damage your ring and how to prevent it
✔️ Tips for keeping your ring looking flawless
Let’s separate fact from fiction when it comes to tungsten diamond ring durability!
How Scratch-Resistant Is Tungsten?
🔹 What Makes Tungsten So Strong?
Tungsten carbide is an alloy made by combining tungsten metal with carbon atoms, creating one of the hardest materials used in jewelry. It ranks 9 on the Mohs hardness scale—just below diamonds, which are ranked 10.
This makes tungsten far more scratch-resistant than traditional metals like:
- Gold – Scratches easily due to its softness.
- Platinum – More durable than gold but still prone to scratches.
- Titanium – Strong but not as resistant to scratches as tungsten.
💡 Key takeaway: Tungsten is one of the hardest jewelry metals, making it highly scratch-resistant and perfect for daily wear.
🔹 Can Tungsten Rings Get Scratched?
While tungsten rings are incredibly durable, they are not 100% scratch-proof.
✅ What WON’T scratch tungsten?
- Keys, coins, and pocket items
- Everyday surfaces like wood, plastic, or glass
- Normal wear and tear
❌ What CAN scratch tungsten?
- Diamonds – Since diamonds rank higher on the Mohs scale, they can scratch tungsten.
- Sandpaper – Some sandpapers contain diamond particles, which can wear down the surface.
- Industrial tools & abrasives – Grinding wheels or diamond-tipped tools can damage tungsten.
💡 Myth Busted: Tungsten is scratch-resistant, NOT scratch-proof. While everyday wear won’t affect it, contact with harder materials like diamonds can leave marks.
Can Diamonds in Tungsten Rings Get Scratched?
💎 Are Diamonds Scratch-Proof?
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance and rank 10 on the Mohs scale. This means that diamonds can only be scratched by another diamond.
✅ What WON’T scratch a diamond?
- Metals like tungsten, titanium, or gold
- Common objects like keys, glass, or steel
❌ What CAN scratch a diamond?
- Another diamond – Storing multiple diamond rings together can lead to scratches.
- Hard impact – A diamond can chip or crack if struck at the right angle.
- Rough cleaning methods – Using abrasive brushes or strong chemicals can damage the setting around the diamond.
💡 Key Takeaway: Diamonds won’t scratch easily, but they can chip if hit with enough force.
How to Protect Your Tungsten Diamond Ring
Even though tungsten and diamonds are highly durable, a little care goes a long way.
🛡 Preventing Scratches & Damage
✔ Store it separately – Diamonds can scratch tungsten, so keep your ring in a soft pouch or jewelry box away from other jewelry.
✔ Remove before heavy work – While tungsten is tough, a hard impact (like dropping it on tile or concrete) can cause it to crack.
✔ Avoid rough surfaces – Even though tungsten is scratch-resistant, abrasives like sandpaper can still damage it.
✔ Keep away from other diamonds – Store your ring separately to prevent diamond-on-diamond scratches.
Cleaning & Maintaining a Tungsten Diamond Ring
🧼 How to Clean a Tungsten Ring
Tungsten rings are low-maintenance, but keeping them clean ensures they always look their best.
✅ Recommended Cleaning Method:
- Mix mild soap with warm water.
- Use a soft cloth or toothbrush to gently clean the ring.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth.
❌ Avoid:
- Harsh chemicals like chlorine or bleach – Can weaken the ring over time.
- Ultrasonic cleaners – Vibrations may loosen the diamond setting.
- Abrasive materials – Scouring pads or rough brushes can dull the finish.
💎 How to Clean the Diamond
- Soak the ring in lukewarm water with mild dish soap.
- Gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Dry with a lint-free cloth to prevent streaks.
💡 Pro Tip: Have your ring professionally cleaned once a year to maintain its shine.
Final Thoughts: Should You Worry About Scratches?
So, do tungsten diamond rings scratch? The answer is not easily—but they’re not indestructible.
✔ When Tungsten Diamond Rings Are a Great Choice:
✅ You want a ring that stays scratch-free in everyday wear.
✅ You prefer a strong, weighty ring over a lightweight one.
✅ You want an affordable yet luxurious alternative to gold or platinum.
❌ When You Might Consider Another Metal:
🚫 If you need a ring that can be resized later.
🚫 If you frequently work with diamond-tipped tools or abrasives.
With proper care, a tungsten diamond ring will maintain its sleek look for years.
💎 Where to Find the Best Tungsten Diamond Rings
Now that you know the truth about durability, it’s time to find a stunning tungsten diamond ring that matches your style.
✨ Check out Orivon Jewelers for premium-quality tungsten diamond rings designed to last.
For more insights on why tungsten rings are so popular, visit this detailed guide.
Looking for even more information on tungsten diamond rings? Browse the latest collection and expert advice at Orivon Jewelers.