Metals For Fine Jewelry
Different Metals For Different Jewelry
Crafting Jewelry is a form a metalworking. Here you can learn about the metals are used in fine jewelry.
Metals For Jewelry We Like The Most & Why
| Feature | Platinum | 14 Karat Yellow Gold | 18 Karat Yellow Gold | 14 Karat White Gold | 14 Karat Rose Gold |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Most malleable (will bend and flex) but does not wear down | A bit malleable and will wear down | Somewhat malleable and will wear down quicker | A bit malleable and will wear down | A bit malleable and will wear down |
Platinum is the most durable precious metal, making it ideal for everyday wear. 14K gold offers a good balance of durability and purity, while 18K gold is softer but more pure. | |||||
| Color | White/Silver - but matte | Rich Yellow - Can Be Polished | Deep Yellow | White/Silver With Yellow Hues | Pink/Rose |
Each metal has its unique color characteristics. Platinum maintains its white color naturally, while white gold is rhodium plated to achieve its white appearance. Rose gold gets its color from copper alloy. | |||||
| Maintenance | Low | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
White gold requires periodic rhodium plating to maintain its white appearance. Platinum and yellow/rose gold require minimal maintenance but benefit from regular cleaning. | |||||
| Price Point | Highest | Moderate | Higher | Moderate | Moderate |
Platinum is typically the most expensive option due to its density and purity. 18K gold is more expensive than 14K due to higher gold content. White and rose gold variations are priced similarly to their yellow counterparts. | |||||
| Allergies | Hypoallergenic | Rare | Rare | Possible | Rare |
Platinum is naturally hypoallergenic. Gold allergies are rare but possible, especially with white gold which contains nickel. Rose gold's copper content can cause reactions in some individuals. | |||||
| Trademark | PT, PLAT, PT950, PT900 | 14K, 14KT, 585 | 18K, 18KT, 18K, 750 | 14K, 14KT, 585 | 14K, 14KT, 585 |
Each metal has its ideal applications. Platinum's durability makes it perfect for engagement rings, while 14K gold offers versatility for everyday wear. 18K gold is often chosen for special pieces, and white/rose gold are popular for contemporary designs. | |||||
Other Metals We Work With On A More Limited Basis
- 22 or 24 Karat Gold
- I love jewelry made in high karat gold. It looks stunning and rich; however, do not wear it everyday.
- Silver
- Can be more affordable than gold but is not as durable. Also, a bit more limited because it is so malleable and requires high heat to work on.
- 18 Karat White Gold
- I am not a fan. If you want white gold, go with 14 karat. If you want a white metal, go with platinum. The yellow shows through a bit more meaning the metal to look good you need to keep it plated.
- 10 Karat White or Yellow Gold
- We can always cast a piece in 10 karat gold but more frequently use 14 karat gold. Sometimes for a more affordable price point or really heavy signet rings, we will use 10 karat gold.
- 18 Karat Rose Gold
- It is just too soft. If you want rose gold, go with 14 karat.
- Tungsten
- We have sold tungsten rings in past but currently do not. They shatter at inopportune times.
- Colbalt
- A great alternative to the traditional precious metals for jewelry. We cannot repair or work on a colbalt ring but do sell them.
- 18 Karat Green Gold
- We have used it as an accent metal in some of our jewelry. The main issue is that it does not look green enough.
- Palladium
- Palladium was an alternative to plainum but is not more expensive in addition to being more difficult to work on because it is brittle.
Have More Questions About Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds?
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At Dolgins Jewelry, we look forward to working with you. A call is great, but a text is best. Talk to you soon.