What is the Difference Between Tungsten and Tungsten Carbide?

The main difference between tungsten and tungsten carbide lies in their composition and properties. Here are the key differences:

1. Composition: Tungsten is an element on the periodic table (element 74) and is known for its dark-grey color, high density, and hardness. Tungsten carbide, on the other hand, is an alloy of tungsten and other elements, predominantly carbon, but also nickel, tantalum, niobium, titanium, and chromium.
2. Strength and Hardness: Tungsten carbide is generally stronger and harder than pure tungsten. It exhibits exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and strength, making it suitable for various industrial applications, including cutting tools, abrasives, and jewelry. Tungsten carbide has an even greater elastic modulus than tungsten, which contributes to its impressive rigidity.
3. Uses: Tungsten is often utilized in electrical and high-temperature applications due to its unique properties. Tungsten carbide is more widely used in industrial applications and is also a popular material for rings, especially for wedding bands, due to its hardness, scratch resistance, and dark-grey color.

In summary, tungsten is an element, while tungsten carbide is an alloy made from tungsten and other elements. Tungsten carbide is generally stronger and harder than pure tungsten and is more widely used in various applications, including jewelry and industrial tools.

Comparative Table: Tungsten vs Tungsten Carbide

Tungsten and tungsten carbide are often used interchangeably in the context of jewelry, such as rings. However, there are differences between the two materials. Here is a table comparing the properties of tungsten and tungsten carbide:

Tungsten is a chemical element with the symbol W and atomic number 74. It is known for its dark-grey color, high density, and hardness. However, tungsten is difficult to work with in its elemental state.

Tungsten carbide, on the other hand, is an alloy created by combining tungsten with other substances, predominantly carbon, but also nickel, tantalum, niobium, titanium, and chromium. This alloy exhibits exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and strength, making it suitable for various industrial applications, including cutting tools, abrasives, and jewelry. Tungsten carbide is extremely scratch-resistant, with a rating of Mohs 8 to 9, and is considered the hardest metal for use in jewelry.

In the context of jewelry, tungsten carbide rings are highly durable and resistant to scratches, but they cannot be resized and must be changed if the ring becomes too tight or too loose. It is common for jewelers to use the terms "tungsten" and "tungsten carbide" interchangeably, but in reality, the rings they sell are made of tungsten carbide, not pure tungsten.