What are metals?

In jewelry making, metals play a crucial role in defining both the aesthetic and structural qualities of pieces. Precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum are cherished for their rarity and enduring beauty. On the other hand, base metals such as iron, copper, nickel, aluminum, and zinc are commonly used for their strength and affordability. Understanding the characteristics of different metals is essential for selecting the perfect piece of jewelry that not only complements your style but also meets your durability and value expectations.

Gold vs. Silver vs. Platinum

discover the distinctions among these precious metals, including purity, color, and price. Explore the composition, appearance, durability, and cleaning & care requirements for each metal, along with considerations for skin sensitivity. Choose the perfect metal for your exquisite Heerok jewelry.

White Gold

structure: White gold comprises 75% pure gold and 25% alloys, often including nickel. Its distinctive white hue is achieved through rhodium plating.

Durability: White gold exhibits remarkable durability. However, to preserve its lustrous appearance, 18K white gold requires periodic re-rhodium plating, contingent on usage.

Cleaning & Care: Maintain white gold's brilliance by cleaning it with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals. Ensure thorough drying after cleaning.

Skin Sensitivity: Individuals with nickel allergies should exercise caution with white gold jewelry due to the presence of nickel in its alloy.
Shop White Gold Ring

Yellow Gold

structure: Yellow gold, typically 18K, contains 75% gold mixed with 25% copper and zinc alloys. Meanwhile, 24K yellow gold is unalloyed and consists of 100% pure gold.

Durability: 18K yellow gold offers enhanced durability due to its alloy composition. However, like all gold jewelry, it should be removed during activities where it might face pressure or impact.

Cleaning & Care: Yellow gold's natural color requires minimal maintenance, remaining consistent over time. To clean, use warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals.

Skin Sensitivity: Skin reactions to the alloys in 18K yellow gold, such as copper and zinc, are rare.
Shop Yellow Gold Ring

Rose Gold

structure: Rose gold, typically 14K, consists of approximately 40% copper, imparting its distinctive pink hue.

Durability: Rose gold jewelry shares similar durability considerations with other precious metals, requiring removal during activities that may subject it to pressure or impact.

Cleaning & Care: Unlike plated metals, rose gold's color is inherent to its alloy, eliminating the need for re-plating. Clean with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals.

Skin Sensitivity: While skin reactions to copper are rare, individuals with sensitivities should exercise caution with rose gold jewelry.
Shop Rose Gold Ring

Silver

structure: Sterling silver jewelry typically consists of 92.5% pure silver, alloyed with 7.5% other metals like copper or zinc for added strength and durability.

Durability: While silver is durable, it is softer than metals like gold or platinum, making it prone to scratches and dents with regular wear.

Cleaning & Care: Silver jewelry may tarnish over time due to exposure to air and humidity. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap can help maintain its shine. For tougher tarnish, consider using a silver cleaning solution or seeking professional cleaning services.

Skin Sensitivity: Heerok offers silver jewelry alloyed with copper and zinc instead of nickel, ensuring compatibility with sensitive skin types.
Shop Silver Ring

Platinum

structure: Platinum is crafted from 95% pure platinum and 5% alloys, typically ruthenium or iridium. Renowned for its rarity, platinum boasts a higher price point compared to other precious metals.

Durability: Known for its exceptional density and resilience, platinum maintains its pristine appearance throughout a lifetime of wear. It develops a soft patina over time, enhancing its character.

Cleaning & Care: While resilient, platinum may bend under extreme pressure, so it's advisable to remove platinum jewelry during strenuous activities. Professional refurbishment services can restore its luster. Cleaning entails gentle methods using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.

Skin Sensitivity: Hypoallergenic by nature, platinum is a suitable choice for individuals with metal sensitivities, ensuring comfort and peace of mind.
Shop Platinum Ring

Beauty of Engagement Ring

Explore our exquisite, lab-grown diamond engagement rings.
Shop Engagement Rings

Caring For Your Jewellery

Caring for your jewelry is essential to maintain its beauty and longevity. Avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals like chlorine or cleaning products, as they can damage gold and platinum. Remove your jewelry before using chemicals and store them separately to prevent scratches and abrasions. To clean your jewelry, use a solution of warm water and detergent-free soap with a soft-bristled brush, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Store your jewelry in soft cloth bags or the original box when not worn to protect them from dust and scratches. Regular cleaning and proper storage will help preserve the lustre and brilliance of your precious pieces for years to come.
MORE ABOUT CARING JWELLERY GUIDE

Metal Guide FAQs

What is the most valuable metal?

Platinum is often considered the most valuable metal due to its rarity, purity, and durability, making it an excellent choice for fine jewelry.

Platinum and white gold are popular choices for engagement rings due to their durability and timeless elegance, complementing the brilliance of diamonds.

Platinum is typically the most expensive metal due to its scarcity and high purity.

Rose gold gets its pink hue from the presence of copper in the alloy, which creates a warm and romantic tone.

24k gold is too soft for jewelry, as it is pure gold. Alloyed gold like 18k or 14k is more suitable for jewelry due to its durability.

Platinum, white gold, and yellow gold are all excellent choices for jewelry, depending on personal preference and budget.

Platinum is the strongest metal commonly used in jewelry, known for its durability and resistance to wear.

The difference lies in their gold content; 10k gold contains 41.7% pure gold, 14k gold contains 58.3%, and 18k gold contains 75%.

Platinum is often considered the highest quality metal for its purity, durability, and hypoallergenic properties.

Platinum, gold, and sterling silver are generally safe for most skin types, but those with metal allergies may prefer platinum or hypoallergenic alloys.