A guide to
THE JEWELRY METAL GUIDE
Color is only
the beginning.
The metal you choose affects how your jewelry looks, how long it lasts and how much care it needs. This guide compares gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum and sterling silver so you can pick the right one for your engagement ring, wedding band or everyday jewelry.
GOLD, EXPLAINED
What does
the karat mean?
Pure gold is 24 karat (24K), and it is too soft for most jewelry, so it
is mixed with other metals (alloys) for strength.
24K: 100 percent gold. Very soft. 18K: 75 percent gold, rich color. 14K: about 58 percent gold, a popular balance of durability and value. 10K: about 42 percent gold, the most durable and the most affordable.
Look for markings such as 14K or 585 (14K), 18K or 750 (18K).
THE DETAILS
Three colors.
Your signature.
Yellow, white and rose gold each bring a different character to a piece.
Yellow gold
Classic and warm. It is gold mixed with metals such as silver and copper. Easy
to maintain and it does not need plating.
White gold
Gold mixed with white metals such as palladium or silver (and, in some alloys,
nickel), usually finished with a bright white rhodium plating. The plating wears over time, and the jeweler can re-plate it to restore the bright white finish. If you have a nickel sensitivity, ask for a nickel-free alloy.
Rose gold
Gold mixed with copper for a warm pink color. Copper also makes rose gold
durable. The color does not fade, and it flatters many skin tones.
PLATINUM & STERLING SILVER
Naturally white.
Distinctly different.
Compare the materials below, then confirm the specific alloy of any piece you are considering.
Platinum
A naturally white, dense metal. Jewelry is usually about 95 percent pure platinum
(marked Pt950 or PLAT). It is hypoallergenic and strong, and it holds diamonds securely. Scratches shift the metal rather than remove it, so it develops a soft finish called a patina that can be polished. It is heavier than gold; pricing depends on the piece and current metal markets.
Sterling silver
Sterling silver is 92.5 percent silver. It is bright and affordable, but it is softer
than gold and tarnishes, so it suits earrings, pendants and fashion pieces better than daily-wear rings. Polish it regularly.
AT A GLANCE
Compare jewelry metals
A practical overview. Exact pricing depends on the piece and current metal markets.
| Metal | Color | Durability & upkeep | Price & uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow Gold | Warm yellow | Good durability, low upkeep | Moderate relative price level. Classic and heirloom jewelry. |
| White Gold | Bright white | Good durability; periodic rhodium replating may be needed | Moderate relative price level. A bright white look. |
| Rose Gold | Pink | Very good durability and low upkeep | Moderate relative price level. A warm, distinctive color. |
| Platinum | Naturally white | Excellent durability with occasional polishing | Pricing varies. Engagement rings and sensitive skin. |
| Sterling Silver | Bright white | Fair durability and regular polishing | Lower relative price level. Fashion and gift jewelry. |
Ask about the specific alloy, finish and maintenance needs of the jewelry you choose.
THE DETAILS
Choose for
your everyday.
Skin tone: Yellow and rose gold tend to flatter warm tones, and white gold and platinum flatter cool tones. Try them on to see.
Lifestyle: Platinum and 14K gold hold up to daily wear.
Sensitivity: Choose platinum or nickel-free gold.
Matching: Keep your engagement ring and wedding band the same metal so they wear evenly.
Budget: 14K gold and white gold give a great look at a moderate price.
Is 14K or 18K gold better?
14K is stronger and more affordable, and 18K has a richer color but is softer.
Does white gold turn yellow?
White gold is naturally slightly warm, and the rhodium plating wears down over time. Re-plating restores the white finish.
Is platinum worth the price?
Many couples feel it is, for its durability and natural white color. We can show you the difference in person.
SAND & STONE · YOUR YUMA JEWELER
Find your
signature finish.
Visit Sand & Stone Jewelers in Yuma.