The Benefits of Titanium
Posted on Friday, 24 February 2017
THE BENEFITS OF TITANIUM
By Apolinario Villalobos
The first time I encountered the word
“titanium” was when a friend told me that he was saving money for a titanium
implant for his son whose thigh was due for an operation. His son figured in an
accident and has injured his thigh. The amount he mentioned was staggering.
When I checked on titanium, I found out
that space and aircrafts use it due to its lightness and durability. It has
also become a fad as a jewelry, but commands a high price. On the other hand,
the light gray/ blackish metal also has benefits which offset its unglamorous
color which is lacking of sparkle and sheen.
Worn as a bracelet, ring, necklace, or
wristwatch, the metal transfers the oxygen that it absorbs to the skin of the
wearer. Wearing a titanium accessory near an inflamed area also reduces its
swelling. This is the reason why many people prefer to wear jewelries made of
titanium than any other kind of metal, especially gold, to alleviate the
irritation that result from the onset of arthritis. And, as an implant, it has
better and more comfortable effect than stainless steel because it is affected
by the change in temperature.
Titanium jewelries can be purchased at
high-end jewelry shops. A watch made of titanium would cost between
Php10-15,000, a ring costs not less than Php3,000, and a bracelet is between
Php5-10,000 depending on the design.
I got my first titanium bracelet from a
junk collector in appreciation for a tarpaulin, several packs of diaper for his
baby and a thermos. He told me that he found it while rummaging in a garbage
dump and after washing the muddy bracelet, took the fancy of wearing it. I
refused to accept the gift but he insisted and to show my appreciation, I wore
it on the spot.
When I washed it at home, I read the word
etched on the lock and discovered the finely etched “Titanium”. My friend was
not aware that he gave me a “treasure” so that when I had a chance, I went back
to where he was sorting his junks and told him what I discovered. He did not
believe me while looking at the light gray/blackish jewelry and just laughed
for he thought that I was joking. Obviously, he was only familiar with silver
and stainless jewelries that glisten. Also, he told me that he has no habit of
getting back what he has given, so I just thanked him again.
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