Many factors go into choosing a metal for your jewelry. These include personal color preference, skin tone, strength of the piece, and even whether you have any allergies or sensitivities to metal.
Most jewelry metals are alloys, which means they’re mixed with other metals to increase their strength. Almost all metals are tarnish-resistant, but some are more durable than others.
Gold
Throughout history, gold has been valued as a precious metal for currency, jewelry, and medical treatment. It is the only element that naturally occurs in an accessible form, as nuggets or grains, in rocks and veins, or as part of some minerals such as electrum, gold tellurium, and pyrite (gold sulfide).
The properties of gold are believed to have a soothing, balancing, and purifying effect. It promotes mental stability and clarity and helps the body absorb nutrients and eliminate toxins. Gold also helps to open and activate the third eye and crown chakras and has been used for centuries to attract honor, wealth, and happiness.
The rarity of gold is owed to the immense amount of energy needed for its formation, which only occurs in stars that explode in supernovae or incredibly dense ones that come together at monstrous speeds. That makes it one of the most expensive elements on Earth.
Platinum
When it comes to precious metals, there are many considerations when deciding which metal to use in your jewelry. Some of these include personal preference, skin tone, metal sensitivities, and durability of the piece.
Platinum is one of the rarest metals in the world and is often considered more valuable than gold or silver. Its white, silvery appearance resembles silver and works beautifully with diamonds and gemstones. The metal is also resistant to scratching and other wear. Platinum is an excellent option for those with allergies or sensitive skin because it is non-reactive.
Similar to gold, platinum is a durable metal that can withstand the test of time. Unlike white gold, it does not yellow over time and requires less maintenance than other precious metals. Additionally, platinum does not oxidize and will not tarnish or fade. Its strong resistance to stress and heat makes it an ideal choice for pendants for chains that will be worn frequently.
Silver
Silver is the second most common metal in jewelry but is much more affordable than gold. It also has many benefits, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear.
Silver’s antimicrobial properties can help protect against colds, flu, and other infections. It can even heal minor cuts and wounds. It also helps prevent fungi and other parasites from growing on the skin.
Another benefit of silver is that it’s hypoallergenic, making it a good option for people allergic to nickel. It can also help protect against contact dermatitis, which can occur when someone comes into direct contact with nickel-containing metal.
Some research shows that wearing silver can help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. However, it’s important to note that silver is not a cure for these conditions and should only be worn as a supplement to other treatments. Silver may also help relieve the symptoms of asthma and arthritis.
Titanium
Titanium is a highly durable metal with excellent cold-forming properties, resistance to corrosion, and welding capability. It is used in the automotive, chemical processing, aerospace, and medical industries. It is also commonly found in knife sets, kitchenware, and surgical instruments. It is more vital than stainless steel but lighter in weight.
It is a hypoallergenic metal that does not irritate the skin. It is scratch-resistant, lustrous, and resists tarnish. It does not bend or stretch out of shape, making it an ideal material for body jewelry.
Titanium is a paramagnetic metal, which is weakly magnetic compared to other ferromagnetic metals. It makes titanium an excellent choice for people sensitive to nickel, present in most other standard body jewelry materials. Titanium is also odorless and does not rust or oxidize. It is a durable and affordable alternative to precious metals like gold and silver.
