The Ultimate Engagement Ring Metals Guide
There are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect engagement ring. While the type of setting and size of the gemstone are seen as the most significant factors, the type of metals featured in the ring should also be carefully considered. Although many people don’t give precious metals a second thought, each one has unique properties that contribute to an engagement ring’s overall look, durability, and price point. Here’s a quick guide to engagement ring metals to help you get started.
Platinum
With its beautiful silver color and gorgeous metallic sheen, platinum is one of the most sought-after metals when it comes to creating fine jewelry. The reason that this precious metal is so popular is not simply due to aesthetics. Platinum is an incredibly dense metal, meaning that it is exceptionally durable. Because it naturally resists corrosion, it is an ideal metal for creating the bands and prongs of engagement rings.
The purity and durability of this metal comes at a price, however. Its natural density and strength makes it much more difficult to mold, which increases the labor costs that go into the creation of all platinum jewelry. Platinum is also much rarer than gold, which drives the price up further. Despite its high price tag, platinum is a beautiful, hypoallergenic metal that resists wear, retains its beautiful sheen, and is certain to last forever.
Gold
Pure gold is a naturally soft material that is far too malleable to be worn as jewelry. For that reason, gold is often mixed with other metals to create a more durable alloy. The percentage of gold present in an alloy is indicated by the karat system. The higher the number of karats, the more actual gold is present within that alloy. Here are some of the most common gold alloys used in engagement rings:
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold has an unmistakable look that contrasts beautifully with the clear sparkle of diamonds. This metal maintains a beautiful golden luster and has long been a popular choice when it comes to engagement rings. Used to create engagement rings throughout the 20th century, you can find rings from nearly any era that feature a traditional yellow gold band.
18-karat gold, which is comprised of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals, is the most popular material used when it comes to creating bridal jewelry. With that said, 9-karat gold and 22-karat gold can also be found.
White Gold
White gold is another silver-hued metal that is incredibly popular when it comes to creating engagement rings. This metal has the same elegant finish as platinum but is much more affordable. It was first used to make engagement rings in the 1920s and has remained a popular option well into the present day.
Because gold has a naturally warm appearance, several steps are required to create the signature silver finish of white gold. First, the gold is mixed with a nickel, palladium, or silver to lighten its look. Then, this alloy is plated with rhodium to give it a silvery finish. Although durable, the rhodium used to plate a ring can start to deteriorate after frequent wear. Luckily, a jeweler can easily re-plate the piece to return it back to its original color.
Rose Gold
Rose Gold is another gold alloy. In this case, copper is the metal mixed with gold, which results in this metal’s beautiful pink hue. 18 Karat rose gold, which is comprised of 75% gold and 25% copper, is the most precious type of rose gold. With that said, 9 Karat rose gold is also popular, because it features less gold and is therefore more affordable.
Rose gold was a prevalent metal in engagement rings during the Victorian Era. Its rich, rosy hue is warm, beautiful, and gives every ring and eye-catching tone. Although it fell out of favor during most of the 20th century, in the last decade it has gone through a resurgence in popularity. People are once again captivated by its elegant, feminine look, making it a great choice for anyone who wants an engagement ring with a modern look but historical roots!
Find The Perfect Ring!
Each metal has its own unique properties, making it easy to find a ring that matches the look and price point you are searching for. Browse the full Victor Barboné collection to find the perfect engagement ring today!
