Metal Types:
There are many different metal types that are used to make jewelry, and we've listed some popular metal types below.
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.
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.
Rose Gold stands out for its romantic pinkish hue, created by alloying pure gold with a higher percentage of copper. Sometimes called “pink gold” or “red gold,” it was first popularized in Russia in the 19th century—hence the nickname “Russian Gold.” Today, rose gold is beloved for its vintage-meets-modern vibe and ability to flatter a wide range of skin tones.
Rose gold’s warm, blush color brings a touch of romance to any piece and remains a trendy yet timeless choice in fine jewelry. It looks stunning with both vintage and contemporary designs and is especially popular for stacking rings or mixed-metal looks. The subtle pink tone pairs beautifully with colored gemstones and diamonds—morganite, opal, and aquamarine are especially striking in rose gold settings. As rose gold continues to rise in popularity for engagement rings and fashion jewelry, it’s a favorite for those who want something a little different yet enduringly stylish.
Platinum is the ultimate luxury metal, prized for its naturally bright white color, impressive strength, and rarity. Used in jewelry for over a century, platinum is about 30 times rarer than gold and is celebrated for its purity, density, and resistance to tarnish or corrosion—even at high temperatures. Its naturally white hue means it won’t cast any unwanted tint on diamonds or colored gemstones, keeping them looking their absolute best.
Platinum offers a classic, premium look with a subtle grayish-white sheen that never requires rhodium plating to maintain its natural brilliance. As the heaviest of the precious metals, platinum jewelry has a substantial, luxurious feel that’s immediately noticeable when worn. It’s especially popular for engagement and wedding rings because of its exceptional durability and its ability to hold gemstones securely for a lifetime. Platinum’s naturally white tone pairs beautifully with diamonds, sapphires, and virtually any colored gem, making it a favorite among those seeking timeless elegance. Thanks to its purity, platinum is also an ideal choice for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies, as it is naturally hypoallergenic and nickel-free.
Palladium is a rare, silvery-white precious metal from the platinum group, prized for its natural brightness, light weight, and modern elegance. Palladium shares many qualities with platinum but is even lighter and often more affordable. Its naturally white color means it never needs rhodium plating and won’t cast color onto gemstones, making it a sophisticated choice for anyone seeking a clean, pure look.
Palladium offers a bright, reflective white metal finish with a subtle, contemporary luster that stands out in any jewelry collection. Exceptionally lightweight, it’s comfortable even in larger rings and bands, while its resistance to tarnishing and yellowing ensures it maintains its clean color for decades. Palladium is a popular hypoallergenic, nickel-free choice for people with sensitive skin, and is often used as an alloy in premium white gold jewelry. Its fresh white tone pairs beautifully with diamonds, colored stones, and all types of modern jewelry designs, making it a smart pick for anyone who wants understated luxury without extra maintenance.
Silver is a classic precious metal prized for its brilliant shine, versatility, and affordability. Used in jewelry, art, and currency for thousands of years, silver is extremely malleable—meaning it can be shaped into intricate designs—and remains a popular choice for both everyday and luxury jewelry. Most fine jewelry today uses sterling silver (92.5% pure silver, alloyed with copper for strength).
Silver offers a bright, reflective finish that beautifully highlights gemstones of every color. Its versatility shines in both bold, artistic creations and classic, timeless styles, while its easy pairing with casual or formal looks makes it one of the most wearable metals. Compared to gold and platinum, silver is highly affordable and accessible, making it a favorite for fashion-forward shoppers, meaningful gifts, and anyone building a jewelry collection on a budget.
Cobalt is a tough, silver-grey metal known for its impressive strength, brightness, and modern appeal. In jewelry, cobalt is usually alloyed with chromium and other metals to create bands that are highly scratch-resistant and retain a permanent polish. Cobalt rings are especially popular for men’s wedding bands thanks to their durability, affordable price, and cool, contemporary look. In certain light, cobalt can show a subtle blue undertone, a nod to the famous pigment that bears its name.
Cobalt jewelry features a bright, silvery finish that resists fading and tarnishing, offering a lasting shine with minimal maintenance. Its rugged durability makes it ideal for those with active lifestyles, and its affordability provides a smart alternative to platinum or white gold. Cobalt bands are often designed with comfort-fit shapes, making them easy to wear every day, and their clean, modern appearance looks great in industrial, minimalist, or contemporary jewelry styles. Popular with those seeking a stylish, low-maintenance wedding band, cobalt is a top choice for anyone wanting modern strength and shine without the premium price tag.
Tungsten is famous for its incredible strength, density, and bold, gunmetal-gray shine. In jewelry, it’s most often found as tungsten carbide—a compound even harder than steel, renowned for its durability and permanence. Tungsten rings have a substantial, weighty feel and are nearly impossible to scratch, making them a top choice for those who want a low-maintenance, ultra-tough band with a modern, industrial edge.
Tungsten jewelry is known for its signature dark, steely gray appearance, available in a range of polished, brushed, or matte finishes. It's the perfect metal for those seeking a masculine, contemporary, or non-traditional wedding band, and can be inlaid with precious metals, wood, or stones for a custom look. Tungsten bands hold their polish and shine for decades with little to no maintenance, and their substantial weight makes them feel luxurious and significant on the hand.
Titanium is celebrated for its extraordinary strength-to-weight ratio—strong as steel, but about 45% lighter. Its natural silver-gray color, durability, and resistance to corrosion make it a top pick for contemporary jewelry. Hypoallergenic and comfortable, titanium rings and jewelry are an ideal choice for those who want modern style with maximum wearability and zero fuss.
Titanium jewelry stands out for its sleek, modern metallic finish, which can be brushed, polished, or even anodized in a variety of striking colors. Extremely lightweight, titanium makes even large rings or bracelets feel comfortable enough for everyday wear. It’s popular for both men’s and women’s bands—especially among those with active lifestyles or metal allergies—and is often chosen for its understated, industrial vibe and contemporary appeal.