Regarding titanium
Titanium: A Metal with Infinite Possibilities
Learn about the history, characteristics, and comparisons with other metals.
We hope this makes titanium a little more familiar to you.
Titanium
*A general term for metals other than non-ferrous metals such as copper, zinc, and aluminum, which are widely used, and precious metals, which are used in small quantities but are extremely expensive.
【Making gold grow fat】An auspicious metal
While there is no specific kanji in Japanese, in Chinese, it is written as "鈦" (meaning "gold" on the left radical and "fat" on the right).
It is said to be auspicious because it translates to "making money grow fat."
Origin and Birth of Titanium's Name
Origin of the name: "Titans" from Greek mythology
Discovered in the 1790s by German scientist Klaproth.
It was named "Titanium" after the giant "Titans", the first children of Earth in Greek mythology.
Birth as a metal and "Pure Titanium"
It was extremely difficult to extract as a metal from ore, and its practical application is relatively recent, in 1946.
What is pure titanium?
High-purity titanium with impurities removed as much as possible.
At Leger, we use JIS standard (Japanese Industrial Standards) Grade 2 pure titanium (purity 99.4% or higher), which is a highly safe grade also used for medical purposes.
Characteristics of Titanium
A metal with excellent strength, lightness, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance.
Approximately 1/4 the weight of gold/platinum. Ideal for those who dislike heavy accessories.
Less likely to discolor or rust in hot springs or the sea. Easy to care for even when sweating.
Metal ions are less likely to leach out, so it can be used with confidence by those with metal allergies.
Comparison of Titanium with other Metals
| Comparison Item | Titanium | Platinum | Gold (K18) | Silver (SV925) | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ◎ Light | △ Heavy | △ Heavy | ◯ Normal | ◯ Normal |
| Allergy | ◎ Safe | △ Beware of alloys | △ Beware of alloys | △ Caution | △ Caution |
| Discoloration/Rust | ◎ None | ◎ None | ◯ Almost none | × Tarnishes | ◯ Rust-resistant |
| Strength | ◎ Strong | △ Soft | △ Soft | △ Soft | ◎ Strong |
| Hot Springs/Sea | ◎ OK | ◯ OK | △ Depends on components | × Discolors | ◯ OK |
Titanium in Everyday Life
Due to its excellent properties, it is widely used from advanced technology to daily necessities.