How to choose the right metal for your jewellery

How to choose the right metal for your jewellery

Choosing the right metal for your jewellery comes down to both aesthetics and practicality. With so many options available, it can be tricky to know which metal suits you – and your needs – best. Here’s a guide to help. 

1. Gold 

Gold is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It comes in various colours and purities, offering a versatile range of options. 

• Yellow gold: Traditional and timeless, yellow gold is mixed with alloys like copper and zinc. Yellow gold never goes out of style. 
• White gold: This gold is mixed with metals like palladium and nickel, and often plated with rhodium for a bright white finish. This option is great if you want a silver look, with a high quality finish. 
• Rose gold: A blend of gold and copper, rose gold has a warm, pinkish hue that’s incredibly trendy, and complements all skin tones. 

A note on purity: Gold purity is measured in karats, with 24k being pure gold. However, pure gold is soft and not ideal for everyday wear. 18k and 14k are popular choices for their durability and beautiful colour. 

2. Platinum 

Platinum is a premium metal known for its durability and natural white sheen. It’s hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. However, it is also one of the most expensive metals. 

• Durability: Platinum is incredibly durable and resistant to tarnish and corrosion, making it a great option for daily-wear jewellery. 
• Weight: It’s denser and heavier than other metals, giving it a luxurious feel. This makes it the best option for wedding and engagement rings. 
• Care: While it’s resistant to damage, platinum can develop a patina over time, which some people find adds to its character. 

3. Silver 

Silver is a popular and affordable option, known for its bright and shiny appearance. The most common type used in jewellery is sterling silver. Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), and is durable and versatile. 

• Tarnishing: Silver can tarnish over time, but regular cleaning can keep it looking pristine. 
• Affordability: Silver is generally more affordable than gold and platinum, making it a great option for trend-led pieces. 

Choosing based on your lifestyle 

When choosing a metal, consider your lifestyle and how you plan to wear the jewellery. For everyday pieces, durability is key. For special occasions, you might prioritise appearance over resilience. 

• Active lifestyle: If you’re very active, metals like platinum are great due to their durability. 
• Skin sensitivity: For sensitive skin, hypoallergenic metals like platinum are the best choices. 
• Budget: If you’re budget-conscious, silver and lower karat gold offer beauty without breaking the bank. 

So which is for you? 

Choosing the right metal for your jewellery involves considering your style, lifestyle, and budget. Each metal has its unique characteristics, so think about what matters most to you and opt for silver, gold, white gold or platinum – or even mix and match metals for a unique look. Still unsure? Check out our range of jewellery here, or chat to our experts who would love to help you find the right piece.