To design a luxury watch or jewelry uniquely suited for you, it’s important to know the difference between traditional and alternative precious metals. Before you head to the fine jewelry store, learn more about these valuable materials and how they are used to complement gemstones:
Traditional
Gold in its purest form is too malleable to create wedding rings and custom jewelry. Jewelers use alloyed gold, measured in karats, to create beautiful, valuable pieces that will not easily lose their shape.
Silver is rapidly becoming one of the most popular precious metals used in jewelry. Like gold, it has to be alloyed to retain a solid shape. Unlike gold, though, it can be tarnished. A new alloy called Platfina is more resistant to tarnish.
Platinum, a white metal, has only been used to make jewelry since the 1800s. As the strongest of all the precious metals used for jewelry, platinum is durable and heavy, which protects it from damage. Many diamond jewelers suggest platinum for engagement rings because it draws more attention to the stone’s sparkle.
Alternative
As one of the lightest metals used for jewelry, titanium is also hypoallergenic. It is durable and can be polished to have an incredible shine. Titanium is often used in necklaces and bracelets.
Stainless steel is incredibly easy to maintain and is resistant to tarnish. When polished, it has a strong reflection that makes it an ideal metal for jewelry.
Tungsten carbide is able to resist scratches better than any other precious metal. It is dark grey, very strong, and often used in jewelry for men, including wedding bands.
At Zadok Jewelers, we have been working with all these precious metals for three generations. Come in today to browse our jewelry selection or call (713) 960-8950.
