Metal Types
Precious Metals Guide
At Hannoush Jewelers, we understand that choosing the perfect piece of jewelry can be an overwhelming task. To help you make the best decision, we've created this comprehensive guide to educate you on the most popular precious metals used in fine jewelry: 14-karat yellow and white gold, 18-karat yellow and white gold, platinum, palladium, and sterling silver.
- 14-Karat Yellow Gold:
14-karat yellow gold is a classic choice for fine jewelry, offering a timeless appeal and warm, golden hue. Composed of 58.3% pure gold and alloyed with other metals such as copper and silver, this blend provides durability and resistance to wear, making it ideal for everyday use.
- 14-Karat White Gold:
White gold is created by alloying pure gold with metals such as palladium, silver, and nickel, resulting in a beautiful silvery-white hue. 14-karat white gold contains 58.3% pure gold and is a popular choice for those who prefer a cooler-toned metal. To enhance its appearance, white gold is often plated with rhodium, a precious metal that adds a bright, reflective finish.
- 18-Karat Yellow Gold:
With a higher percentage of pure gold (75%), 18-karat yellow gold offers a richer, more vibrant golden color compared to 14-karat gold. Its increased gold content makes it slightly softer and more susceptible to scratches, but it remains a popular choice for luxurious and elegant jewelry pieces.
- 18-Karat White Gold:
Similar to 14-karat white gold, 18-karat white gold contains 75% pure gold and is alloyed with metals such as palladium, silver, and nickel. Its higher gold content gives it a slightly warmer tone compared to 14-karat white gold, and it's often chosen for its luxurious feel and stunning appearance.
- Platinum:
Platinum is a rare and prestigious metal, known for its durability, strength, and silvery-white sheen. Hypoallergenic and resistant to tarnishing, platinum is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies to certain metals. With a purity of 95%, platinum's rarity and high quality make it a sought-after metal for fine jewelry.
- Palladium:
A member of the platinum group of metals, palladium shares many of the same desirable qualities, such as its hypoallergenic nature, durability, and resistance to tarnishing. Slightly lighter than platinum, palladium has a similar silvery-white appearance and is a more affordable alternative to platinum.
- Sterling Silver:
Sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, is a popular and budget-friendly choice for jewelry. Known for its bright, reflective finish, sterling silver requires regular polishing to maintain its shine and prevent tarnishing. Although less durable than other precious metals, it remains a beloved option for its affordability and versatile style.
At Hannoush Jewelers, our knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you choose the perfect precious metal for your unique jewelry piece. Visit us today to explore our stunning collection and discover the beauty of these exceptional metals