Silver. Gold. Silicone. One of these things is not quite like the others. Silver and gold have been part of jewelry history for a very long time. Silicone? Not so much. But that’s changed in recent years with the introduction of the silicone ring. Boasting features like comfort, safety, affordability and durability, silicone rings’ popularity has grown significantly in recent years. Read on to see why and to determine if purchasing a silicone ring is right for you.
What are Silicone Rings?
Silicone rings are a type of jewelry made from a flexible and durable rubber-like material called silicone. They are popular for their comfort and safety, and can be worn during activities where a traditional metal ring might be hazardous or easily lost. Silicone rings can be molded or cast in various shapes and colors.
Why Do People Wear Silicone Rings?
There are endless reasons one might explore adding a silicone ring to their jewelry collection. Here are a few of the most common:
- Style: Silicone rings are fashionably flexible, and can be worn with casual or formal attire, depending on the color you choose (let’s face it, bright pink can really brighten up a black tux or little black dress!). Because they are inexpensive to make, many silicone ring brands offer a wide variety of colors and styles, making it easy to find one that reflects your personality, and your wardrobe. Some even feature etching for a more upscale look!
- Comfort: Silicone rings are generally considered more comfortable to wear than metal rings. They are lightweight and flexible and won’t pinch your skin or dig into your fingers. Because of their flexible material, silicone rings also comfortably accommodate fluctuations in finger size throughout the day due to temperature changes.
- Safety: Wearing a silicone ring can reduce the risk of injuries more commonly caused by metal rings, especially in certain industries, such as manufacturing, construction and electrical work, when permitted. Wearing traditional metal rings in these industries can lead to workplace accidents like getting a finger caught in a machine, leading to a ring avulsion. A ring avulsion is a finger injury that happens when a ring you're wearing is forcefully pulled and can result in amputation. This injury can happen from falls, sports accidents, and workplace incidents.
- Durability: Silicone rings can be worn in place of more valuable rings during activities in which the opportunity to scratch or dent your ring is increased, such as lifting weights or labor- or machine-intensive jobs as mentioned before. You don’t need to worry about scuffing your jewelry when it’s made of silicone!
- Price: Their relatively low cost makes silicone rings an appealing substitute for a more valuable ring, even if it’s only for temporary wear. Some people feel better about swapping their expensive metal ring for a silicone one while participating in activities where loss or damage to jewelry could occur.
Silicone Rings are Worn Universally
Silicone rings are designed to be worn by anyone and everyone, coming in a wide range of colors and designs, from simple and classic to colorful and playful. These comfortable rings are also practical, making them perfect for active lifestyles, from working out at the gym to playing with your kids.
While anyone can wear them, there are certain hands-on professions in which wearing a silicone ring may make more sense, including athletes and fitness professionals, construction workers, electricians, mechanics, medical professionals, chefs and cooks.
Where to Buy Silicone Rings
Due to their inexpensive price point, you may want to buy one silicone ring to save money, or perhaps buy several of them in a variety of colors, giving yourself options to wear in the future to match your mood or your wardrobe. You can find silicone rings at a variety of retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Here are a few places to look:
- Online marketplaces: Websites like Amazon, Etsy and eBay offer a wide selection of silicone rings from different brands and retailers. You'll find a vast selection of styles, colors and features to choose from at competitive prices.
- Sporting goods and athletic apparel stores: Such stores often carry silicone rings, as they are a popular choice for athletes. They are comfortable, flexible and durable, making them ideal for workouts and other physical activities.
- Jewelry stores: Some traditional jewelry stores may also have a selection of silicone rings, especially those that cater to a broader clientele. You may also find silicone rings in mall kiosks.
- Big-box retailers: Some big-box retailers also sell silicone rings, making them a convenient and affordable option. They typically offer a variety of basic styles at lower price points.
What Size Silicone Ring Should You Get?
Sizing a silicone ring correctly ensures a comfortable and secure fit throughout the day. Unlike metal rings, most silicone rings don't come in half sizes, so knowing your exact finger circumference is key.
To measure, simply take a length of string and wrap it gently around the ring finger, just below the knuckle. Mark the point on the string where the ends overlap with a pen. Lay the string flat and measure the distance in millimeters. Divide the length by Pi (3.14) to obtain the appropriate ring diameter. You can either compare this information to an online sizer or take it to your favorite jeweler for help determining the best size.
The jewelry world continues to expand with new, innovative ideas. Addressing concerns of safety, durability and affordability, the silicone ring trend solves a problem and meets a specific need—translation: they’ll likely be around for a while.
If you’re considering buying a silicone ring so that your higher-value rings can remain tucked safely away during your adventures, it’s still a good idea to insure your fine jewelry. Individuals looking for jewelry insurance are often under the impression that insuring their jewelry through a homeowners insurance policy is the best option. And while homeowners insurance is an awesome policy for insuring homes, personal jewelry policies can provide affordable coverage for your jewelry without ever having to file a claim against your home. Check your rate from Jewelers Mutual by clicking the button below.
