Perhaps you're torn between gold and platinum, or maybe you're drawn to the idea of engagement and wedding rings that truly stand out. Whatever the reasons, consider the option of a two-metal band.

In short: A two-metal (mixed-metal) diamond ring combines two gold colors or alloys in one piece — typically 18kt white gold for the head (cool contrast around the diamond) with 18kt yellow or rose gold shanks. Goldsmiths solder the metals invisibly; the join lasts indefinitely with normal wear. Hallmark stamps confirm purity of each metal. Suits engagement rings, wedding bands, and eternity rings equally.

There was a time when it was considered a firm rule not to mix metals in jewelry choices. However, rules are made to be broken, and mixing different metals has become more popular than ever. You'll find evidence of this trend everywhere, from celebrity engagements to the catwalk, in stores, and fashion magazines.

While resistant to tarnishing or oxidizing, it may be surprisingly more prone to scratching than, for example, 14kt gold, which is mixed with a higher percentage of alloys. Nevertheless, like gold, platinum rings can be re-polished to look as good as new from time to time. Another advantage of platinum is that it develops a beautiful patina with age.

The question then arises: which metals to combine? The answer is entirely up to taste and personal choice.

The beauty of a mixed-metal band lies in its ability to open up a wealth of possibilities. From tying your engagement ring with other precious jewelry you own and enjoy wearing regularly to coordinating your ring with your wedding dress or everyday attire.

The general principle is to choose two contrasting tones; for instance, combining yellow and white golds is a very popular option. Another increasingly common look is to match rose gold with white. Essentially, though, your imagination is the limit: from combining silver, platinum, and titanium to mixed bands of white, yellow, and rose gold. Metals come in such a wide range of colors that there are two-tone rings to suit every taste and budget.

The overall effect is a timeless, eye-catching look that will draw admiring glances for many years to come.

Check out our Alessandra two-metals band engagement ring here: