A Complete Precious Metals Guide
At Beverley Hills Jewellers, we understand the value and allure of precious metals. This complete guide to wedding ring metals provides a wealth of information and invaluable insights on yellow gold, rose gold, white gold and platinum. Learn about the properties, uses, history and investment potential of these ring materials and discover why they are a cherished cornerstone of the jewellery industry.
Platinum
Platinum is the most durable and practical of wedding ring metals. The naturally white metal is denser and more durable than other precious metals like gold and silver, making it an excellent choice for jewellery and other high-end applications. Here's a closer look at platinum, including its properties, uses, history, and investment potential.
Uses: Platinum is primarily used in the production of jewellery, particularly engagement rings and wedding rings. It is often used in settings for diamonds and other precious gemstones due to its strength and resistance to tarnish.
Properties: Platinum is one of the most heat-resistant metals on earth. It is also highly resistant to corrosion. Platinum is a dense metal and is significantly heavier than other wedding ring materials such as gold or silver.
History: Platinum was first discovered by Spanish explorers in the late 16th century, but it was not until the 18th century that it was recognised as a distinct metal. Platinum became popular in jewellery-making during the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s.
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold is a classic and timeless metal that has been used in jewellery making for centuries. It is an alloy made by mixing pure gold with other metals, such as copper and zinc, and is known for its warm, rich colour.
Uses: Yellow gold is one of the most popular wedding ring metals. It complements a wide range of gemstones, including diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. It is commonly used in both women’s wedding rings and men’s wedding rings.
Properties: Yellow gold is a soft and malleable metal, making it easy for craftsmen to shape and make jewellery with. The purity of the different types of gold is measured in carats, with 24 carat gold being the purest form of the metal. However, 24 carat gold is too soft for most jewellery applications, so it is often mixed with other metals to increase its strength and durability. The most common alloys used for yellow gold are 9 carat and 18 carat, which contain 37.5% and 75% gold, respectively.
History: Gold has been valued and used for ornamental purposes since ancient times. Yellow gold became particularly popular from the Victorian era onwards.
Rose Gold
Rose gold is a beautiful and unique metal that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is an alloy made by mixing pure gold with copper, which gives it its distinctive rosy-pink colour.
Uses: Rose gold is a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery pieces. Its unique colour complements a wide range of skin tones, and it pairs beautifully with diamonds, coloured gemstones, and pearls.
Properties: Rose gold is durable and versatile wedding ring metal. Rose gold is less susceptible to tarnishing and corrosion than other metals, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear.
History: Rose gold first became popular in Russia, where it was used in the creation of exquisite Fabergé eggs. In the United States, rose gold gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, when it was commonly used in Art Deco and Art Nouveau jewellery designs.
White Gold
White gold is a popular alternative to traditional yellow gold for wedding ring metals. It is an alloy made by mixing pure gold with other metals such as nickel, palladium or silver, which gives it a silvery-white appearance.
Uses: White gold’s silvery-white appearance complements a wide range of gemstones, particularly diamonds. White gold is also often used in the manufacturing of luxury watches, particularly those with a modern and minimalist design.
Properties: White gold is a durable and strong metal that is perfect for jewellery making. White gold is typically coated with rhodium, a rare and valuable metal that enhances its shine and lustre, making it more durable and resistant to scratches.
History: White gold dates back to the early 20th century when it was first introduced as a more affordable and versatile alternative to platinum. It gained popularity during the Art Deco era, when it was commonly used in geometric and abstract jewellery designs.
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Book an appointment and start working with our expert gemmologists and jewellers for a tailored in-store experience to discover or design the jewellery of your dreams. You discuss your preferred wedding ring metals and precious stones.
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Book an appointment and start working with our expert gemmologists and jewellers for a tailored in-store experience to discover or design the jewellery of your dreams.
