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Stephen Alan's Jewellers - The Jewellery Blog
Jewellery has been cherished throughout history as a form of self-expression, adornment, and cultural significance. Behind the dazzling gemstones and intricate designs, lies the foundation of jewellery—metals.
From luxurious gold to contemporary stainless steel, different metals lend unique characteristics to jewellery pieces.
In this short blog post, we explore the main types of metals that jewellery is commonly made from, highlighting their properties and popular applications.
1. Gold
Gold has been prized for centuries, valued for its rarity and timeless beauty. It is a highly malleable and ductile metal, making it easy to work with and shape into intricate designs. Gold Jewellery is commonly available in various purity levels, measured in karats. Pure gold is 24 karats, but it is often alloyed with other metals such as silver, copper, or zinc to increase its durability. The colour of gold can range from classic yellow to white, rose, and even green, depending on the metal alloys used.
2. Silver
Silver has a long history in jewellery making, admired for its lustrous appearance and affordability. Like gold, silver is a malleable metal that can be crafted into elaborate designs. Sterling silver, the most common type of silver used in jewellery, is an alloy consisting of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper or other metals for added strength. It’s known for its bright, white appearance and versatility, making it a popular choice for various jewellery styles, from delicate earrings to statement rings.
3. Platinum
Platinum is a rare and precious metal prized for its durability, purity, and distinctive silver-white colour. It is one of the densest and heaviest metals used in jewellery, offering exceptional strength and resistance to wear. Platinum Jewellery is typically 95% pure, making it a popular choice for individuals with metal sensitivities. Its natural white hue does not fade or tarnish over time, giving platinum Jewellery a timeless allure. Due to its rarity and premium qualities, platinum is often used for engagement rings, wedding bands, and high-end luxury pieces.
4. Titanium
Titanium is a contemporary metal that has gained popularity in the jewellery industry. It's known for its exceptional strength, light weight, and hypoallergenic properties, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.
Titanium Jewellery is highly resistant to corrosion and tarnish, retaining its polished appearance with minimal maintenance. This metal is often utilized in modern and minimalist designs, particularly for men's jewellery, such as rings, bracelets, and cufflinks. The availability of various finishes, including matte, brushed, or polished, adds to the appeal of titanium Jewellery.
5. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a durable and versatile metal commonly used in jewellery due to its affordability and resistance to tarnish and corrosion. It’s an alloy consisting primarily of iron, with the addition of chromium and other metals to enhance its strength and lustre. Stainless steel jewellery offers a modern and sleek aesthetic, suitable for both casual and formal wear. It’s available in a wide range of designs, from minimalist pieces to bold statement accessories. With its affordability and durability, stainless steel Jewellery has become increasingly popular among fashion-forward individuals.
Conclusion
From the timeless elegance of gold to the contemporary allure of stainless steel, the world of jewellery encompasses a variety of metals that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Whether you prefer the prestige of platinum, or the affordability of silver, understanding the main types of metals used in jewellery allows you to make informed choices and find the perfect piece that reflects your personal style and stands the test of time.
Jewellers in Leighton Buzzard
Whether you're looking for new, preowned or bespoke jewellery, visit Stephen Alan's Jewellers in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, an independent, family owned jewellers since 1984.
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