PRECIOUS METALS

WHAT ARE PRECIOUS METALS?

A metal becomes precious when the material holds economic value beyond its beauty along with other factors like scarcity, industrial use, and role throughout history. Certain precious metals are held in higher regard than others, but this hierarchy is mainly based on personal opinions fueled by aesthetic biases. Our guide by our team at BARONS Jewelers goes over some of the most popular precious metals used by jewelry designers today.

YELLOW GOLD

One of the oldest precious metals in constant use since ancient times, yellow gold has a radiant, warm glow that is appealing for jewelry. Accents with cool-toned diamonds or colorful gemstones like rubies or lapis lazuli complement the bright gold tones of this metal for contemporary or vintage-inspired looks. Pure gold is too delicate for jewelry, so 18k and 14k contain alloys of different metals to make the yellow gold more durable. These pieces of jewelry will still require routine maintenance.

WHITE GOLD

Containing white metals as the alloys mixed with pure gold and then dipped in rhodium, white gold has a silver sparkle that is adaptable to most settings of engagement rings and is preferred by many. The white sheen from the rhodium dip will need to be redone over time as the yellow tone will start to show through as you wear the item. A trusted jeweler will be able to retain its gorgeous color and beauty.

ROSE GOLD

A higher concentration of copper within gold is how rose gold gains its pink color. This precious metal looks romantically sweet with vintage-inspired designs for bridal and fashion jewelry. Mixed metal forms of white and rose gold create an excellent contrast along with more complex styling. This metal looks fantastic on all skin tones and is a perfect addition to most jewelry boxes. Although strong from the higher level of copper, these pieces should still receive continuous care to prevent dings or discoloration.

STERLING SILVER

Although the least expensive metal on our list, sterling silver is remarkable and fantastic for jewelry. Hypoallergenic, this metal is both cost-effective and great for those with skin sensitivities or allergies to certain metal alloys, nickel being the most common. Designers create gorgeous collections using sterling silver so that people of all backgrounds may still find beautiful jewelry pieces to express themselves with or give to a loved one.

PLATINUM

While platinum has a large upfront cost, it can save you in the long haul as it is the most low-maintenance precious metal commonly used for jewelry. The density of the metal affords it incredible durability and is one of the reasons why men's jewelry, especially men's wedding bands, are routinely crafted out of platinum. Platinum's bright sheen is natural along with its hypoallergenic nature as there usually are no metal alloys mixed with it.

FIND A VARIETY OF PRECIOUS METAL JEWELRY AT BARONS JEWELERS

Our selection of precious metal jewelry within our BARONS Jewelers showroom is unbelievable. We curate the best jewelry designers to fill our displays, and our talented professionals can also custom design jewelry in whatever precious metal you want. Visit our Dublin jewelry store to be blown away by the exquisite jewelry and outstanding customer service.