What is a silicone ring?

Great marriages are the product of constant time, understanding, mutual respect, affection, forgiveness, and committed investments. Nevertheless, how we symbolize a couple's marriage is bound together by an entity, or rather an object that is considered to be falling short of the ‘durable’ characteristic.

Traditional wedding rings are notoriously delicate, being tremendously susceptible to dents and scratches. The tendency of diamonds or gems bursting out and being continually removed from one’s finger to execute various daily activities, only adds fuel to the fire of losing one’s rather expensive wedding band. Subsequently, to truly define what a silicone ring is and what its purpose is, besides being but a mere accessory, requires us to tell the story of AO Originals.

AO Originals’ silicone rings

AO Originals was founded four years ago. Initially, the key focus of AO Originals was traditional wedding bands, and metal jewelry in general. Even though we were doing fairly well, something began to itch- not figuratively by any means. Although the rings and necklaces were genuine gold plated, clients reported adverse responses. Allergic reactions surfaced upon wearing these gleaming metal accessories. As a result, we were questioned about the metals' prices and authenticity, and therefore if they were genuine silver or gold. It was at this point when we discovered the not-so-shiny surface of the infamous metal.

We were compelled to withdraw from the metal jewelry market, analyzing and learning more about this particular market. Our observations conclude that for millennia, the metal jewelry, particularly the traditional wedding ring, market has been running in circles. There have been barely any advancements and innovations in the traditional wedding ring market, despite the progression of technology and science. This stunned us, and I am sure you too. The development of mobile phones has developed rapidly within just a decade. The same can not be said for jewelry.

For eons, metals have been predominantly considered to be the only material utilized in jewelry making. However, only in recent years have the jewelry market become open to incorporating other materials. The few reasons that aided in this venture were the affordability, the hazardous impact of mining metals on our environment, the fragile nature of metal jewelry, and the allergy implications. To substantiate, the average price of a 14 karat gold or a white gold ring in the Netherlands in 2020 was estimated to be around €450 for a men's metal wedding band. This price appears quite steep, right? Well, the price of a ladies’ traditional wedding ring is far greater. A ladies' diamond ring will set you back around €5000. The inclusion of a women's wedding band brings the total cost of traditional wedding rings to around €6300.

In all honesty, the majority of couples, particularly young couples seeking to marry, do not possess this chunk of cash for just wedding bands. In a survey conducted by People Magazine in 2019, it was discovered that an increasing number of couples prefer to rather spend lavishly on their honeymoon and future home, rather than on wedding bands and their wedding reception. Pertaining to the hazardous impact of mining metals on our environment- heavy metals, such as stainless steel, have been demonstrated to be a substantial pollutant in both surface and groundwater. Water contamination with these components is becoming one of the most major environmental concerns due to the dangerous nature of metal properties, even at small doses.

The sad reality of mining for metal is that around 3500 dams are built each year to control mining waste, leaks, and even oozes into the earth. I am certain this creates an inkling sensation of worry for the preservation of mother nature within you. It is a known fact that your traditional wedding rings are easily susceptible to dents, scratches and even possess the potential to inflict injury; thus, being awarded its fragile but not-so-safe title. Have you looked at images of ring avulsions on google?

The increase and decrease of various temperatures may cause your finger to shrink or expand, which is why traditional wedding bands have a low comfort level. Furthermore, traditional wedding bands are highly restrictive; doing things like going to the gym or participating in sports while wearing your wedding band may be

unpleasant. A further consequential downside of traditional wedding rings is the increased risk of loss. A wedding band is extremely valuable, possessing both emotional as well as financial significance, which is why it is more important to keep it secure as opposed to wearing it every day.

Lastly, observations by GS Products UK proved the notion of metal rings regarding their high conductivity properties and high probability of allergic reactions upon skin contact. To elaborate, certain metals, such as nickel, steel, titanium, and zirconium, which are major constituents in most rings today, are causing an increase in allergic reactions. As a result, traditional wedding rings and metal jewelry, in general, are not considered hypoallergenic.

Unfortunately, Individuals who are sensitive to metal rings may have skin irritation that is unabated by anything other than ceasing use. It is for all these reasons mentioned above, that the jewelry industry is considering expanding its horizon; seeking metal alternatives that would have far fewer adverse effects on the environment, skin, and people’s wallets. Silicone currently holds this title; being affordable, durable, and gentle on mother nature and our skin.

These discoveries urged AO Originals to oppose the common notion that metals are predominantly utilized in jewelry making; thus, enabling us to create our very own line of functional jewelry made from silicone. Our objective is to create functional jewelry that also possesses an attributed fashion statement. Modern, unique, and innovative. Everything we look for in accessories. Henceforth, at AO Originals we developed silicone wedding bands and jewelry boasting a multitude of perks. These perks include zero allergic skin reactions, no greening or blackening of jewelry, ring avulsion avoidance, the epitome of flexibility and comfortability (even on days where your fingers are a bit more swollen than usual), temperature, and water-resistant.

Additionally, our silicone rings are antifungal and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin. It is also safe to say that AO Originals’ silicone rings will not succumb to dents or scratches; even if it does succumb to snapping in the long run, we offer a lifetime guarantee. Hence, making it a stunning, cost-effective option. Furthermore, our silicone rings are heat-resistant and durable, since they

cannot be affected by heat, and numerous chemicals cannot infiltrate or damage them; they are also non-conductive, which eliminates the high probability of shock and burning during the conduct of electricity. An undeniable list of benefits, don’t you agree?

The ‘silicone’ in silicone rings

'Here's the scientific side behind it,' as they say in the popular shampoo commercials. Silicones are polymers, that are otherwise huge molecules made up of numerous subunits that are duplicated. Silica is used to create these polymers. Silicon and oxygen atoms interchange in a chain that is typically coupled with carbon and hydrogen. At this point, you may be wondering what is silicon then, and if it is inherently the same as silicone. To establish the distinction between silicon and silicone: silicon is a chemical element that is mostly obtained from the earth’s soil, whilst silicone is a rubber that is largely obtained from silicon.

Silicon is extremely brittle and rigid in its pure state. Also, silicon has a grey or blue metallic luster and embodies a somewhat translucent solid. Silicon is most commonly found as silica, a silicon oxide that is also the key element of sand. Essentially, silicone is mostly silicon, although it also contains carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Silicone is a man-made polymer possessing the visco-elasticity property, which signifies it is indeed viscous and flexible at the same time. Due to its numerous helpful qualities, silicone rubber is employed in a wide range of sectors.

These qualities include thermal stability (silicone is heat resistant across a multitude of temperature variants, retaining its commendable features at temperatures ranging from a low -60°C and up to a whopping +200°C); minor toxicity, minimum chemical affectibility; water, ultraviolet, and ozone resistance. Another great perk of silicone is that it is completely safe to produce and it does not endorse the production of microbiological organisms.

Silicone products have been ingrained in our daily lives as a result of their capabilities. Every day, we come into contact with silicone rubber, which is used in a wide range of sectors. From the silicone adhesive sealant around your bathtub to its

application in the process of generating the electricity that lights your home. Also, medical-grade silicone is deployed in several medical uses as well as in personal care items. Did you know that dishwasher-safe muffin trays and other nonstick cookware, pot handles, oven mitts, cutlery such as forks and spoons, along with freezers, fridges, and oven extrusions are all made of food-grade silicone? Yes! This just goes to show how trusted and safe the use of silicone is. This is exactly why we are diverting our attention from rings made of metal and focusing it on silicone. Not as just a complete replacement for metal rings, but as a functional alternative too.

What are AO Originals silicone rings?

Our elevated, medical-grade silicone rings are made to blend effortlessly into your life, even if you're challenging yourself at the gym with a heavy dumbell, cooking to the desires of your tummy, playing with the little ones, or dodging the hazards of wearing a traditional wedding ring on call or the job. AO Originals silicone rings are available in a variety of shiny hues to complement your style or every event. The medical-grade silicone is meticulously manufactured to precise proportions, ensuring a gentle, flattering look and also a versatile and ventilated feel.

Perks for opting for a silicone ring

As previously discussed, Although resilient silicone bands are an inexpensive fashion item, amongst the most compelling arguments for moving from traditional wedding rings to silicone rings for both men and women is their safety. Metal rings getting caught on numerous objects can inflict grave injuries such as ring avulsion. Hence, be cautious all workers who wear metal rings and work with their hands.

Transitioning to a silicone ring eliminates the likelihood of accidents and injuries while still allowing your hand to feel fully accessorized during the day. Wearing one of our silicone rings is a fantastic choice for fitness enthusiasts because it eliminates the need to remove your ring for workout sessions or the possibility of losing it. Our rings are designed to withstand even the most rigorous workout sessions, with highly designed size and shape. It's also impossible to overlook the fact that silicone

wedding rings are exceptionally well-fitting and comfy. Due to its lightweight characteristic, it is easy to forget you are even wearing a ring.

“With a quest to make fitness, and all daily activities accessible and functional to every individual, our silicone wedding rings align with our company values and objectives.”

Shop here for the trendiest and most vibrant silicone bands on the continent.