Damascus Wedding Bands: The Complete Guide

If you're looking for a wedding band that will hold up nicely against rough everyday wear and tear, you should consider a Damascus steel band. Durable and sturdy, these wedding bands are a great choice for anyone who often works with their hands—and they're a great alternative to the classics like platinum, gold, or silver.

"They're created from durable steel and are a very interesting option if you're looking for something different," explains celebrity jeweler, George Khalife. "They're also one of a kind and made to last. Some say they're like a fingerprint. No one ring will look the same."

Damascus rings also have an interesting history behind them. The steel used to create these types of bands dates back to the same material used to create Viking and Samurai artillery. The name originates from the swordsmiths who invented the steel in Damascus, Syria.

Ready to learn more about Damascus rings? Read on to discover the pros and cons of these bands and how to care for them.

Pros and Cons of Damascus Wedding Bands

There are a lot of things to love about Damascus wedding bands, especially if you're looking for something that will really make a statement. As mentioned before, each and every Damascus band is unique and no two have the same pattern. This is typically a big plus for someone who would like a more customized ring, rather than a standard platinum band.

Another advantage is that they're extremely strong and durable, making them ideal for anyone who can't wear delicate jewelry every day. As Khalife points out, these rings don't tarnish and can be scratch resistant. They're also resistant to rust and won't need to be replaced in a short amount of time.

Lastly, Damascus wedding bands are often sold at a lower price point compared to other metals. According to Khalife, they aren't as expensive as gold, although they're more costly than the typical stainless steel band. The jeweler also notes that while they are often worn by men, many women opt for this style of ring as well. "Many couples seek out Damascus bands because of their durability and lower price point," he says.

And while there are many pros to consider, there are still some downsides to these interesting styles. "[Damascus rings] can't be resized, which is a big [con] because our weight, and therefore our finger size, fluctuates," Khalife says. "Make sure you get the right size." A few more key points to consider are that Damascus rings aren't always easy to find in-store, and may cause allergic reactions. "These rings may contain nickel, which can cause allergies or skin irritation," Khalife says.

What to Look for in a Damascus Wedding Band

• What defining element should I pay attention to when shopping for this ring? When shopping for a Damascus wedding band, you should really pay attention to the pattern in order to find one that is as unique as possible. "That is what really sets these rings apart from any other, and makes them special to the person wearing them," Khalife notes.
  

How to Care for a Damascus Wedding Band

Luckily, Damascus steel wedding bands are relatively easy to care for. You can use gentle soap and warm water to wash away any dirt that might accumulate, rubbing it with a soft toothbrush to get rid of stubborn grime. Just be sure to keep your ring away from harsh chemicals, like bleach, which can cause damage to the ring. "Avoid saltwater and chlorine, which can cause corrosion and rust over time," Khalife adds.

Keep scrolling for a look at some Damascus wedding bands you can purchase now.