When it comes to precious metals, it seems like most of us have a color preference -- either yellow or white. That sounds like a narrow choice, but it isn't really, because there are lots of different jewelry metals available, especially in the white category.
Gold jewelry never goes out of style. Gold can be worked into nearly any shape, from tiny strands that do not break easily to very thin sheets. One ounce of gold can even be hammered into an ultra thin sheet that's ten feet square. Gold can be manipulated nearly any way a jewelry artisan desires, but the purity of gold in our jewelry differs, and it's important to understand the differences before you buy.
Have you ever been confused by the terms white gold, green gold, and rose gold? All real gold is yellow, isn't it, so how do other colors fit in -- are they imitations? The short answer is
no, they are alloys, new metals that are created by combining two or more different metals. Here's how it's done.
Platinum's natural white luster provides a rich backdrop for diamonds, but it's a metal that's just as elegant when used all by itself to create a piece of jewelry, either as a simple polished item or in a design with engraved motifs. There are lots of reasons to choose platinum for your fine jewelry.
Silver has been used to make jewelry since ancient times, but the exploration of continents in the western hemisphere uncovered more productive silver mines than Europeans had ever seen. More silver has been mined and used since the late 1700's than in all prior centuries combined. Sterling silver is a popular form of the metal that's both beautiful and affordable. Learn a few sterling silver basics before you buy jewelry.
Has gold and other jewelry ever left greenish or black marks on your skin? It's happened to most of us, and even though some people are allergic to certain materials, most staining isn't caused by an allergy -- it's a reaction between our skin and the metals used in jewelry. Learn which metals to watch out for.
Only certain types of metals are recommended for new body piercings. The metals you wear should not react with body tissues -- some precious metals and metals that are used for surgical implants are two good choices. Here's a rundown of the good and the bad.
