Gold and Silver

• The most common engagement ring bands today are made from gold and silver. There may be variations in the type, such as white gold. The appeal of gold and silver bands is their rarity and status. Gold and silver are finite materials and are relatively small in quantity on Earth. They are made from compounds of other elements found throughout the universe. While gold and silver can be produced in a lab, it may be more romantic to think that the band is essentially made of star dust.
  
  

Wood

• Wood can be cut and manipulated into a ring and worn to signify engagement. While wooden bands are less common, they would be well suited for nature lovers or those wishing to do something non-traditional. Wooden rings can be roughly cut or cut very precisely for a smooth finish. Wood can be inlaid with gemstones or used in combination with metal to connect a gem. Wood rings, while typically finished with a protective seal, should not be continually immersed in water. Wearers should remove wooden engagement bands while swimming or showering to protect the integrity of the wood.
  
  

Iron

• Iron is an interesting element. Any element before iron in the periodic table can be fused together to create energy. Any element after iron can be used in fission to create energy. Iron, however, cannot be used in fusion or fission. It is stable. This can be a beautiful symbol of the rock-solid stability of a relationship. And yet, though iron is stable, it can be manipulated to create intricate detailing in the band. Iron-cutting tools can create texture, shapes or patterns in the ring for an individual look.
  
  

Shell and Bone

• For a truly unique ring, purchase a band made from shell or bone. In 2010, a man from Britain gave his girlfriend an engagement ring made from his own shin bone, which had been amputated after an accident. According to Australia's 9 News, "She was overjoyed to have [a ring] that was part of him." For less adventurous couples, rings can be crafted from old ivory or animal bone. Shells from a romantic vacation can be used to create the band or be chopped and inlaid as part of the band. Rings made from shell or bone should be handled by professional ring makers, as both materials are very difficult to manipulate.