When you’re looking for your next new piece of jewelry, one important decision is selecting the right jewelry metal for you. Aside from creating a specific aesthetic and appearance, your jewelry metal can also affect the durability and cost of your jewelry. In this article, we’ll explore how to choose the right jewelry metal for you based on all the pros and cons of different options. Let’s dive in!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Jewelry Metal
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right jewelry metal for you:
- Personal Style: Your personal style and taste should be a major factor in your decision. Do you prefer the classic look of gold or the modern look of silver? Would you prefer something more unique, like rose gold or platinum? Consider the color, texture, and design of your jewelry and how it fits with your personal style.
- Skin Sensitivity: Some people are allergic to certain metals. If you have sensitive skin, you should avoid metals like nickel or brass that may cause a reaction. Visit your doctor to get metal allergy tested, and look for hypoallergenic metal options such as platinum, titanium, or 14K gold.
- Durability: The durability of the metal is also an important factor. If you plan to wear your jewelry every day, you want it to last. Metals like platinum, titanium, and 14K or 18K gold are specifically known for their durability. They’re also less likely to tarnish, dent, or scratch over time.
- Cost: The cost of the metal is also a consideration. Precious metals like platinum and gold can be more expensive, while silver and stainless steel are more affordable. You should consider the cost of maintenance and repair over time, as some metals, like vermeil, may require more care than others.
- Occasion: Consider the occasion for which you will be wearing the jewelry. For example, if you’re picking out an engagement ring you’ll likely want to choose a durable metal that you’ll want to wear every day. If you’re shopping for fine jewelry that you might only wear once or twice a year, you might be willing to splurge on rarer metals.
- Compatibility: Consider the compatibility of the metal with other jewelry and accessories you own. If you already have a lot of gold jewelry, you may want to choose a metal that complements it, like rose gold or white gold. If you prefer to mix metals, choose a metal that is versatile and goes well with different colors and styles.
Pros and Cons of Different Jewelry Metals
Gold, vermeil, and silver are three popular choices for jewelry, but there are significant differences between them that may factor into your decision about which to choose. Here is a look at the differences between gold, vermeil, and silver:
Gold
Gold is a precious metal that has been used in jewelry making for centuries. It’s a popular option for jewelry due to its rarity, durability, and beautiful color. The purity of gold is measured with karats; 24K is the purest form of gold.
- Pros: Gold is durable, doesn’t tend to tarnish, and has a beautiful luster that can complement any skin tone.
- Cons: Gold can be expensive, especially at higher purities like 24K, but it’s often considered an investment because it retains its value over time.
Vermeil
Vermeil is a type of plated metal that is made by electroplating a layer of gold onto a sterling silver base. To qualify as vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick and must be made of gold that is at least 10 karats.
- Pros: Vermeil offers the look of gold at a more affordable price point. It’s also more durable than traditional gold plating (which can be thinner than 2.5 microns), as the thicker layer of gold helps to protect the silver base from tarnishing.
- Cons: Vermeil is not as durable as solid gold and may eventually wear off over time with regular use. It can also be prone to scratches and dents.
Silver
Silver is a very versatile type of metal. Silver’s purity is indicated with the stamp SS (for “sterling silver”) or 925, which is the most pure silver available, and the most common type used for jewelry.
- Pros: Silver is a more affordable option than gold, making it more accessible for people on a budget. It is also a highly malleable metal, making it easier for jewelry designers to work with. That leads to a wider variety of designs and shapes in silver jewelry.
- Cons: Silver can be prone to tarnishing and may require regular polishing to maintain its luster. It is also a softer metal than gold, so it’s even more susceptible to scratches and dents.