Durability of hammered/die-struck/cast/engraved for everyday

[lkredhat]

Hi,
I'm looking for a narrow (1.5-2.5 mm) solid wedding ring to wear everyday (I'll take it off at night) but I want something a little fancier than the plain pipe band that has become uncomfortable with time.

My options: a hammered ring (14k or 18k) with a flush-set sapphire OR or a vintage style "eternity" ring (i.e. a band with a floral pattern all the way around). I can probably order a new one from a vendor on Etsy or look for an actual antique ring in good shape.

When it come to eternity rings, some are cast, some (Jabel, Belais, etc.) are die-struck, some are engraved or chased or incised or ... anyway I'm not sure if it makes a difference. Jabel has a nice video on why their die-struck rings are superior to cast rings. However, other people say that die-cut is more like machining for mass-production rings and cast rings are better made.

Any feedback? As I say, I'd like to wear this ring pretty much every day (taking off at night) so I'm willing to pay a little more for a ring that is durable.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: Durability of hammered/die-struck/cast/engraved for ever

I am pretty sure die-struck is more durable or harder than cast. 1.5mm is too thin, though. Stick with 1.8mm or larger. 2mm is a very nice width, in my opinion. I would say that you have to take care of any band with milgrain, engraving, etc as the design will wear down unless you take it off when doing work with your hands. But that is a good idea to do that with any fine jewelry anyway.

 

[Karl_K]

Re: Durability of hammered/die-struck/cast/engraved for ever

I am pretty sure die-struck is more durable or harder than cast.

Everything else being equal that is true.
What gives die-struck a bad name is mass produced pieces that have just barely enough metal there to hold together until they are sold.
However these days many of the same type of pieces are cast and even weaker as casting technology has the ability to be automated and came down in cost.

 

[lkredhat]

Re: Durability of hammered/die-struck/cast/engraved for ever

Thanks, that is useful, and provides some good guidance. I want this ring to last as well as some of the lovely vintage ones I have!