In the world of jewellery we work with many different metals, and each of these metals have different strengths and weaknesses. So how do you pick the right metal for your needs? I鈥檓 going to break down the most popular metals used in jewellery and give you the information you need to know.
Platinum & Palladium
At the top end of the price scale we have Platinum, silver in colour and the most durable and rare of the metals used in jewellery. It requires the least maintenance when being compared to White Gold as it is a naturally white metal, therefore does not need rhodium plating.
In the same family as Platinum we have Palladium. Also silver in colour, it is slightly darker than Platinum. Palladium is a great option, as it requires little maintenance, yet does not have the price tag of Platinum. It is usually priced around the same as 18ct gold.
Gold
There are lots of variables when it comes to gold: Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, 9ct, 10ct, 14ct, 18ct & 22ct. What determines the carats of the gold is its purity; pure gold is 24ct and from there it is measured by percentage of gold to other alloys. 24ct is impractical to wear, as it is too soft, therefore it is mixed with other alloys such as copper and silver to make it more durable; the colour of the alloy will also determine the colour of the gold.
The most common carats used in Australia being 9ct and 18ct. 18ct is 75% pure gold, this is the reason you will also see it stamped 750. 9ct is 38% pure gold and you will often see this stamped 375.
So why buy 18ct over 9ct? Because of the purity of the gold, yes 9ct is cheaper but that is because it contains less gold per gram. People will often tell you 9ct is harder and wears better but this is not true. The 18ct alloy wears better than the 9ct alloy as it contains more pure gold.
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver is one of the many forms of silver, but is the most popular form used in jewellery. It is a great option for costume jewellery due its natural bright white colour and it鈥檚 less expensive than gold. You may notice your silver jewellery turning a dull gray colour. This it called oxidisation and happens when chemicals in the environment react with the silver to cause it to naturally oxidise. This can be easily fixed by bringing it to us for a clean and polish and we can have it looking good as new again.
Custom Designs
If you鈥檇 like more information, or need help on choosing the right metal for you, pop in and see us at Clayfield Jewellery. We鈥檇 be happy to show you our range in store, or help you create your own custom designed piece of jewellery.
Visit our boutique jewellery store in North Brisbane, or enquire online today.
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