Learn About Metals

Search by Precious Metals

Yellow Gold

Yellow Gold is the original gold standard for fine jewelry. Naturally warm and radiant, yellow gold is created by alloying pure gold with small amounts of copper and zinc for strength and durability. The result is a metal with timeless appeal and a rich, unmistakable color that never goes out of style. The higher the karat, the purer and richer the gold color, but also the softer the metal.

Yellow gold offers the classic “gold” look that’s instantly recognizable and never goes out of style—making it a favorite for both vintage and modern jewelry designs. Its warm hue complements all skin tones and pairs beautifully with diamonds, garnets, sapphires, and most other gemstones. Yellow gold is available in multiple karats—most commonly 10k, 14k, and 18k—allowing you to choose the perfect balance of purity, durability, and price for your needs. It’s also easy to resize and repair, which makes it an excellent choice for heirloom pieces or everyday jewelry that’s meant to last for generations.

Color Range:

Pale Yellow Warm Gold Rich Yellow Deep Gold Antique Gold

Purchase Considerations

  • Higher karat = more pure, but softer and more expensive; lower karat = more durable and affordable
  • Look for proper stamps (10k, 14k, 18k) and buy from reputable sources to avoid gold-plated or counterfeit pieces
  • Yellow gold is easy to maintain—simply polish to restore its natural shine

History & Lore:

  • Yellow gold has symbolized wealth, love, and prestige for over 5,000 years—favored by ancient Egyptians, royalty, and modern couples alike
  • Often gifted to celebrate milestone anniversaries and major achievements

White Gold

White Gold is a contemporary favorite that combines the beauty of gold with the cool, sophisticated look of platinum or silver. It is created by alloying pure gold with at least one white metal—typically nickel, palladium, or manganese—which lightens the yellow tone and adds strength. Most white gold jewelry is finished with a rhodium plating for an ultra-bright, mirror-like shine and additional durability.

White gold offers an elegant, modern appearance that’s perfect for anyone who prefers a sleek, silvery look over traditional yellow gold. It has become the most popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands, especially when paired with diamonds, thanks to its neutral tone that won’t alter the perceived color of any gemstone. White gold pairs seamlessly with colored stones as well, making it a versatile option for all types of jewelry. It’s often chosen as a more affordable alternative to platinum, providing a similar aesthetic at a lower price point. Most white gold jewelry is available in 14k and 18k; 14k is especially prized for its enhanced durability, making it ideal for everyday wear.

History & Lore

Developed in the 1920s as an affordable alternative to platinum during Art Deco’s white-on-white craze White gold’s popularity surged as platinum was reserved for military use during World War II Symbolizes modern love and sophistication in today’s fine jewelry market

History & Lore

Developed in the 1920s as an affordable alternative to platinum during Art Deco’s white-on-white craze

White gold’s popularity surged as platinum was reserved for military use during World War II

Symbolizes modern love and sophistication in today’s fine jewelry market

Purchase Considerations

  • Ask about rhodium plating—replating every 1–3 years restores brightness and protection
  • Rhodium plating adds extra scratch resistance but can wear off over time, revealing a slightly warmer undertone—replating is easy and routine
  • Nickel alloys can cause allergic reactions; ask for palladium-based or “nickel-free” white gold if you have sensitive skin

Rose Gold

Rose gold is a romantic and warm-toned metal alloy made by combining pure gold with copper. The higher the copper content, the deeper the rose hue. Cherished for its vintage appeal and flattering warmth on all skin tones, rose gold has become one of the most sought-after metals in fine jewelry today.

Color Range:

Blush Pink Soft Rose Warm Copper Deep Rose Champagne

Origins:

Rose gold originated in 19th-century Russia, where jeweler Carl Fabergé popularized it — earning it the early name "Russian Gold." Today it is crafted worldwide using pure gold alloyed with copper and sometimes silver.

When to Give:

  • Valentine's Day gifts
  • Engagement & anniversary rings
  • Birthday gifts for romantic occasions
  • Milestone celebrations
  • Mother's Day jewelry

Platinum

Platinum is one of the rarest and most prestigious metals on earth. Naturally white and incredibly dense, it is hypoallergenic, tarnish-resistant, and holds gemstones more securely than any other metal. Platinum jewelry is 95% pure, making it the finest and most enduring metal available for fine jewelry — a true symbol of lasting love and luxury.

Color Range:

Pure White Cool Silver-White Bright Lustrous White Icy White Natural White

Origins:

Primarily mined in South Africa, which produces over 70% of the world's platinum supply. Russia, Zimbabwe, and Canada are also significant sources. Platinum is 30 times rarer than gold and must be processed in enormous quantities to yield even a small amount of pure metal.

When to Give:

  • Engagement rings for the ultimate luxury
  • 20th and 25th wedding anniversaries
  • Once-in-a-lifetime celebration pieces
  • A symbol of eternal, unbreakable commitment

Palladium

Palladium is a rare and naturally white precious metal belonging to the platinum group. Lighter than platinum yet equally strong and durable, it is 100% hypoallergenic and never tarnishes or fades. Palladium offers the elegant appearance and prestige of platinum at a more accessible price point — making it an exceptional choice for those who demand quality without compromise.

Color Range:

Silvery White Cool White Soft Platinum-White Bright White Natural White

Origins:

Palladium was discovered in 1803 by English chemist William Hyde Wollaston. It is primarily mined in Russia and South Africa, with additional sources in Canada, the United States, and Zimbabwe. It is one of the six rare platinum group metals and is found in very limited quantities worldwide.

When to Give:

  • Engagement and wedding bands
  • Gifts for those with sensitive skin or metal allergies
  • Modern and minimalist jewelry lovers
  • Anniversary and milestone celebrations
  • A sophisticated alternative to platinum or white gold

Silver

Silver is a timeless and versatile precious metal composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy — usually copper — for added strength and durability. Its brilliant, reflective surface and accessible price point make it one of the most beloved metals for everyday fine jewelry. Always look for the 925 hallmark as your guarantee of authentic sterling silver quality.

Color Range:

Bright Silver Polished White Matte Silver Oxidized Antique Brushed Grey

Origins:

Silver has been treasured by civilizations for over 6,000 years. Today it is mined globally, with the largest sources found in Mexico, Peru, China, Russia, and Australia. Mexico alone accounts for nearly 25% of the world's silver production.

When to Give:

  • Everyday jewelry and casual gifting
  • 25th wedding anniversary (Silver Anniversary)
  • Birthday and holiday gifts
  • First jewelry gifts for young ones
  • Bohemian and fashion-forward jewelry lovers

Cobalt

Cobalt is a modern and innovative metal that has quickly gained popularity in contemporary fine jewelry. Extraordinarily hard and scratch-resistant, cobalt is naturally white with a bright, lustrous shine that closely resembles white gold and platinum — but at a fraction of the cost. It is hypoallergenic, lightweight, and virtually maintenance-free, making it an ideal choice for those with an active lifestyle.

Color Range:

Bright White Cool Silver-White Polished Chrome Matte White Satin White

Origins:

Cobalt is mined primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which holds the world's largest reserves. Additional sources include Russia, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines. It has been used in industrial applications for centuries and entered the fine jewelry market in the early 2000s.

When to Give:

  • Wedding bands for active lifestyles
  • Gifts for those who prefer low-maintenance jewelry
  • Modern and contemporary jewelry lovers
  • Men's jewelry and accessories
  • Durable everyday wear pieces

Tungsten

Tungsten is the hardest metal used in fine jewelry today — virtually scratch-proof and incredibly durable. Its naturally dark, gunmetal tone and substantial weight give it a bold, masculine presence unlike any other metal. Tungsten carbide jewelry is crafted by combining tungsten with carbon, creating one of the most wear-resistant materials on earth. It is the perfect choice for those who want a piece that truly lasts forever.

Color Range:

Gunmetal Grey Dark Silver Matte Black Polished Charcoal Brushed Steel

Origins:

Tungsten was discovered in 1783 by Spanish chemists Juan and Fausto Elhuyar. It is mined primarily in China, which produces over 80% of the world's supply. Additional sources include Russia, Canada, Bolivia, and Austria. The name "Tungsten" comes from the Swedish words meaning "heavy stone."

When to Give:

  • Wedding bands for men
  • Gifts for those with a bold, modern style
  • Active individuals who work with their hands
  • Someone who prefers weight and substance in jewelry
  • A symbol of unbreakable strength and commitment

Titanium

Titanium is the ultimate combination of strength and lightness. Remarkably strong yet incredibly lightweight, it is the most biocompatible metal used in fine jewelry — making it 100% hypoallergenic and perfect for even the most sensitive skin. Its natural silver-grey tone offers a sleek, contemporary look, and it can be anodized to produce a stunning range of unique colors not possible with any other metal. Titanium is virtually corrosion-proof and built to last a lifetime.

Color Range:

Silver Grey Matte Black Deep Blue Natural Grey Brushed Steel

Origins:

Titanium was discovered in 1791 by English clergyman William Gregor. It is the ninth most abundant element on earth and is mined primarily in Australia, South Africa, Canada, India, and Norway. Originally used in aerospace and medical industries, titanium entered the fine jewelry market in the late 20th century.

When to Give:

  • Wedding bands for active lifestyles
  • Gifts for those with severe metal allergies
  • Sports and outdoor enthusiasts
  • Someone who prefers ultra-lightweight jewelry
  • Modern, minimalist, and industrial style lovers
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