Metals used in promise couple rings play a major role in their durability. The popular precious metals do not have the same durability, so choosing one type of metal over another may make it more suitable for an active wearer. Most modern couples jewlery are made of gold, platinum or palladium.

 Gold (Mohs Scale Hardness 2.5-3 out of 10) has a yellowish tone. Gold is available in different forms and purities such as 12k karat, 14k karat, 18k k, 20k k, and 24k k. 24 karat pure gold is 100% gold and unaltered. The karat measurements are used to determine the fineness or metal alloy. For example, how many parts out of 24 karats is gold. As an example, 18 karats is 75% gold and 12 karats is 50%. Engagement rings are usually made from 18k gold. Any higher alloy fineness will make the ring more malleable and susceptible to damage, such as nicks or dents.

 Not all gold matching chains for couples has a yellow tone. It is actually made of gold alloys. Rose gold is made of copper and gold. White gold is gold mixed with silver, platinum or other metals.

 The fact that platinum is more durable (hardness Mohs 4 to 4.5 on a scale of 10) than gold has a great deal to do with the alloying with gold in order to make white gold. It is an expensive choice, as the volume of platinum mined per year is approximately 25 times higher than that of gold. Platinum is not available in a variety of tones. It tends to be a silver-tone metal.

 The most durable precious metal is palladium. It has a Mohs scale of 4.75 out 10. It is less dense than platinum. This makes it a more affordable choice for engagement rings. The metal is naturally shiny and lustrous, with a silvery white hue that doesn't fade over time. White gold alloys require surface rhodium plating to keep them shiny, but palladium can shine on its own.

 Cutting Stones: The best engagement rings for active lifestyles

 As the most visible component of an engagement, the shape, size and type(s) of stones will impact the overall durability of a design. If you are designing your gemstone engagement ring yourself, then the cut should be as symmetrical as possible. This minimizes the chance of a chipped stone or bent prong ring. In the same way as ring heights, the flusher the face of the stone is the less likely the ring to "stubb" if in contact with something. For active lifestyles, engagement rings with square brilliant cuts work better than those with stepped or sharp points.

 The provenance of a stone should be considered when choosing an engagement band. Nexus Diamonds (tm) are a great alternative to mined stones. They have the strength and hardness necessary to cut through glass, but at an affordable price. The stone is not only an ethical option, but it's perfect for active lifestyle wearers.

 Choose Your Ring Setting

 It's now time to select your custom engagement rings setting. It's all about style when it comes to choosing the perfect setting. Try something subtler like solitaires, bezels, or accented styles if your partner prefers simplicity. If your partner likes a little bling but doesn't want to overdo it, choose a vintage or classic three-stone setting. For those who like it loud and bright, you can choose from a halo setting, an accented one, or a glam style.

 Add a Wedding Band To The Mix

 Design your wedding band at the time you design your engagement ring. It can save you time and money. Some jewelers even offer special offers on price. If you're wondering how to engrave rings, your jeweler may be able give you some specific suggestions for your wedding bands or engagement rings.

 If you want to design a personalized wedding band or a customized engagement ring, you have many options available to you.