Jewelry Metals
We’ve got the perfect metal match!
There are many options available in precious and non-precious metals. Making that decision has everything to do with your lifestyle and what you love. When deciding on what metal is right for you, there are other things to consider. For example, if your skin is very sensitive, platinum might be the perfect choice since it’s hypoallergenic. Yellow gold is natural gold, whereas white gold will eventually need re-plating. Read about your options and what might be right for you!
Gold
Gold is without a doubt timeless, and is the go-to choice for everyday adornment. There are various grades of gold purity from 10K, 14K, 18K, and 24K (considered pure gold). As an example,18K gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals. As the karat weight decreases, the gold becomes more resilient but less vividly yellow. Lower karat weights are often plated to enhance their color, and this plating may require occasional maintenance. It is by far the most popular metal in the U.S., with a rich and enduring history among all precious metals.
Yellow gold is a classic choice with its rich, warm tone. It has a natural resistance to rust, tarnish, and corrosion, making it ideal for everyday wear.
White gold has become increasingly popular over the years. It is made with similar properties to yellow gold but mixed with different metals to give it a white color – typically with rhodium (a rare member of the platinum family). Rhodium plating will wear and eventually need re-plating.
Rose gold is made with similar properties but is mixed more heavily with copper to give it that rose color. Rose gold engagement ring styles mixed with white gold are very popular in several new settings.
Platinum
Platinum is one of the most popular metals for engagement rings and wedding bands. It’s naturally white and will never fade or change color. It is also durable (for anyone active) and hypoallergenic. Platinum will last forever and is the ultimate symbol of everlasting love.
Sterling Silver
Not usually used for engagement ring settings, sterling silver is primarily used for fashion jewelry and accessories. It is a very soft metal and tends to tarnish. We don’t recommend this metal for holding a precious diamond or colored gemstone for your engagement ring. However, it is a very affordable alternative to white gold or platinum in the world of fashion jewelry.
There are alternatives.
There are times we receive requests for an alternative metal wedding band to wear every day especially if you are active and sports-minded. Alternative metals are less expensive and make the perfect option to use as a backup band. Here are a few of the most popular alternative metals:
- Tungsten Carbide: Tungsten carbide is unique and typically bold in design. It is a forged metal that will last a lifetime. It is created from an alloy of 80% tungsten and 20% carbon alloy with other metals.
- Cobalt: Cobalt is four times harder than platinum, while at the same time, far less dense. Because of its natural hardness, it resists scratches, chips, and corrosion. Cobalt is also hypoallergenic, so it’s a great choice for men with sensitive skin and an active lifestyle. We’ve noticed many men choose platinum and have a second cobalt band for their wardrobe. Why not?
- Titanium: Titanium is extremely lightweight, yet strong, and has a silvery-white metal color. It is 45% lighter in weight than platinum. It is also hypoallergenic and commonly used in men’s fashion jewelry.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a metal that is easy to clean, highly durable, and very resistant to scratches and corrosion. It has a beautiful silvery-white color and retains its shine and color. It is most commonly used in men’s jewelry and watches.
At Corinne Jewelers, we’re here to help you choose the perfect metal for your jewelry—one that fits your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless appeal of gold or the modern edge of alternative metals, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Stop by our store or schedule an appointment today. Let’s find your perfect metal match together!
