Choosing the Right Jewelry Metal | Fink's Jewelers

26 May.,2025

 

Choosing the Right Jewelry Metal | Fink's Jewelers

There is a lot to consider when purchasing a piece of jewelry. Whether it is a gift for a loved one, a unique piece for yourself, or a ring to pop the question with, a lot of thought goes into each decision.

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One choice you must make when buying jewelry concerns the material used to make the piece. Jewelry is often made with one or more metals, and learning about all your options will help you make the best decision for your special piece.

5 Popular Metal Options for Your Jewelry

There are many metals used for jewelry. Consider the elements of your piece — gemstones, how often it will be worn, and what kind of jewelry it is — as you decide on the right metal for your jewelry. Selecting a metal for diamond earrings may differ from picking the perfect engagement ring metal. 

Do your research and consider your own style. Each metal type has pros and cons, but take the time to find the right jewelry metal for you, and you will forget about the rest. 

1. Valuable Platinum Jewelry

Platinum is one of the most popular metals when purchasing or designing jewelry. Platinum jewelry is often more expensive than other options because of the popularity and scarcity of the metal. While platinum does not tarnish, it will take on a natural patina that can be left for a vintage-inspired look or buffed away.

Platinum jewelry is beautiful and strong, making it both a practical and symbolic choice for engagement rings. An engagement ring with a platinum setting and diamonds is sure to shine. Diamonds are reflective stones and, when combined with a sparkling platinum jewelry setting, they can often look bigger than they are.

The primary downside to platinum jewelry is the price. There are less expensive options that look similar to platinum, but many people believe platinum is a worthwhile investment for its durability and brilliance.

2. Versatile Gold Jewelry

Gold is a popular and versatile metal that has been used in jewelry for centuries. It has been a symbol of nobility and wealth for over 6,000 years, and gold jewelry is the perfect gift to show you love someone.

Because gold is very soft, it is often mixed with other metals to give it strength and a defining color. The purity of the gold is measured in karats. Gold can be mixed with multiple different metals, including nickel, silver, and copper, and each metal gives gold a different hue. That is why gold jewelry is not just yellow —multiple gold alloys have individual looks.

There are three primary gold varieties that are currently popular in jewelry. White gold, yellow gold, and rose gold are all related but are refined differently, giving each a distinct color. Many pieces of gold jewelry can be customized with any of these golds, allowing you to choose your favorite.  

Yellow Gold Jewelry

Yellow gold is the most traditional gold available. When someone says “gold” without another qualifier, they are typically speaking about yellow gold. There are many reasons you should consider yellow gold, the first being yellow gold jewelry is as beautiful as it is classic.

Yellow gold jewelry typically combines pure gold with silver, copper, and zinc to strengthen the metal while keeping the yellow hue. Of all the gold varieties, yellow gold is the easiest to maintain and the most hypoallergenic.

Because it is one of the most recognizable and familiar jewelry metals, yellow gold often pairs well with other metals. Whether within the same jewelry or across different pieces, yellow gold matches well with platinum or white gold. A beautiful set of gold and diamond earrings would be the perfect addition to any jewelry box. 

White Gold Jewelry

White gold jewelry was developed as an alternative to platinum when that metal was being used for war efforts in World War II. A less expensive but still elegant choice, many people select white gold over platinum when looking at engagement rings and other meaningful jewelry.

Like all gold used in jewelry making, white gold is an alloy that mixes pure gold with other metals. White gold is usually made with naturally white metals like nickel, silver, or palladium. This helps strengthen the metal while giving it that silvery hue.

White gold jewelry is popular in everything from the ever-important diamond bridal set to simple earrings. These pieces have an air of sophistication while remaining more affordable than platinum. This classic look isn’t going away, and we’re thankful for the option of white gold jewelry.

Rose Gold Jewelry

Rose gold, another alloy of gold, has grown in popularity in recent years. Rose gold is made with copper, which gives it a pink hue. It was first used in the early 19th century by Carl Faberge in his Faberge Eggs but gained popularity in the United States during the s.

Rose gold is often seen as elegant and feminine. It has a romantic feel, with the warm rose gold color hinting toward hearts and flowers. Rose gold often looks best with soft pastels and neutrals.

Pair rose gold with a colored gemstone, like in a morganite and diamond necklace, for a striking piece of jewelry that will catch the eye. There is nothing wrong with having a bit of color in your jewelry, and rose gold is one way to achieve it.

3. Timeless Silver Jewelry

Silver is a natural precious metal that, like gold, is often mixed with other metals to strengthen it. Silver jewelry does not scratch easily, but it will tarnish over time and needs to be polished to keep its bright surface.

Most silver jewelry is considered sterling silver, which is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. Other silver jewelry may be silver plated, which means the silver is just a coating on top of a cheaper base metal. This plating is typically thin and wears off over time.

Sterling silver jewelry is timeless and will always be in style. Dressed up or dressed down, sterling silver can complement almost any outfit. Pick up a silver chain necklace as a staple for your wardrobe for years to come.

4. Stainless Steel Jewelry

Stainless steel is known for its incredible durability. And as its name implies, it is less likely to corrode or tarnish than sterling silver jewelry. It’s a great choice for everyday jewelry pieces.

Watches are often made with stainless steel. Unlike leather or fabric, a stainless steel watch band will not fade or wear out over time. Even after years of use, a stainless steel watch will be functional and beautiful.

Stainless steel jewelry is sometimes more masculine, like a steel chain necklace, but the metal is often used in pieces for both men and women. A stainless steel ladies’ watch can be the perfect timepiece to bring your outfit together. When reaching for a piece that you don’t have to worry about getting messed up, stainless steel is the way to go.

5. Alternative Metals for Jewelry

Of course, there are dozens of metals used in jewelry making. Depending on the metal and how the jewelry is constructed, many alternative metals cannot be sized or repaired, but they are often strong enough to avoid damage.

Alternative metals are seen in many different applications. One popular place to find alternative metals is when shopping for modern men’s wedding bands. Popular alternative metals for these wedding bands include:

  • Tungsten
  • Titanium
  • Cobalt
  • Zirconium

These alternative metals provide a unique look for a special groom on his wedding day. Be sure to find the right size before purchasing, and feel confident as she slips your striking ring onto your finger as she says her vows.

What About Mixed-Metal Jewelry Designs?

Of course, you don’t have to choose just one metal for your jewelry. Mixed-metal pieces are a popular way to get a new look with two or more metals. For example, a white gold and yellow gold signet ring is a stunning piece with two complementary metals and diamonds to make it all shine bright. As an added plus, you can wear two-toned jewelry pieces with anything since they usually pair well with both gold and silver.

Other Considerations for Choosing the Right Jewelry Metal

Having more knowledge of the primary metals used while making jewelry is a wonderful start to choosing the best setting for your piece. There are a few other things to consider beyond the basics. While all are not applicable in every situation, it is good to examine each consideration when making your decision.

Sentimental Meaning Behind Jewelry Metals

When choosing a metal for a new piece of jewelry, consider if the jewelry has a specific sentimental meaning. Many anniversaries traditionally have a specific gift associated with them, and metals often make an appearance on that list, including:

  • 6th anniversary: Iron
  • 7th anniversary: Copper
  • 8th anniversary: Bronze
  • 10th anniversary: Tin
  • 11th anniversary: Steel
  • 25th anniversary: Silver
  • 50th anniversary: Gold

While many people get creative with these traditional suggestions, several metals easily translate to jewelry. Silver jewelry and gold jewelry are special gifts for a 25th and 50th anniversary.

Some more modern anniversary lists place silver at the 16th anniversary, bronze at the 19th anniversary, and platinum at the 20th anniversary. Whichever list you are working with, a unique piece of jewelry or anniversary band while you reminisce about the past and dream about the future is perfect for a milestone anniversary. 

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Be Aware of Metal Allergies

It is essential to take allergies into account when shopping for jewelry. Some people have bad reactions to different metals, and it would be a shame to gift someone a piece they cannot comfortably wear.

According to dermatologists, a jewelry allergy resembles a poison ivy outbreak with redness, bumps, and irritation. You can typically tell if you are allergic to your jewelry if a rash appears around the jewelry, especially in piercings where the jewelry goes through the skin.

Nickel is the most common jewelry allergy, so doctors recommend avoiding jewelry with nickel in it. This includes pieces labeled “gold plated,” as the gold can wear off and expose a more troubling metal underneath. In general, platinum jewelry and sterling silver jewelry are safe options for people with sensitive skin. With gold jewelry, the higher the purity — 24k being the best option — the less likely it is to cause a reaction.

What Looks Best with Your Skin Tone?

While you may love the look of a specific metal, it is possible to find one that suits your skin tone better than the rest. Like any clothing, makeup, or accessory, specific metallic hues can look great against your skin while other colors clash or wash you out.

Experts have found that certain skin tones look best with specific metals. Consider their opinion and try on some pieces to see if you agree:

  • Fair skin with red undertones looks good with silver jewelry
  • Fair skin with pale undertones looks good with 9kt or 14kt yellow or white gold jewelry
  • Olive skin looks good in almost any metal
  • Dark skin looks good in gold jewelry
  • Skin with yellow undertones looks good in gold jewelry or rose gold jewelry

Many pieces come in your choice of metal, like an engagement ring with several setting options, giving you the flexibility to find the most flattering jewelry for you. Fortunately, these are suggestions; at the end of the day, what is most important is how your jewelry makes you feel.

The Upkeep of Your Metal Jewelry

Some metals need more care than others. Silver, for example, will tarnish if it is not stored and polished correctly. White gold jewelry often has rhodium plating to combat a yellowish tint of the gold and to provide a bright finish, and this rhodium plating has to be re-plated when it is worn down and dull.

Platinum is incredibly durable, and platinum jewelry requires very little maintenance. It does not tarnish and does not require rhodium plating. This is one reason many people favor platinum jewelry, especially for important pieces that will endure a lot of wear, like engagement rings.

Proper jewelry care may include bringing your jewelry to a professional jeweler for repairs, cleaning, and upkeep on a regular basis. Some metals will need professional upkeep more often. Consider the price of this maintenance when choosing a metal for your jewelry.

How to Choose Earrings for a Gift - Mountz Jewelers

How to Choose Earrings for a Gift: Your Earring Gift Guide

Earrings make a stunning and memorable gift. A thoughtfully chosen pair of earrings speaks from the heart and can make your loved one feel truly appreciated.

If you choose the right earrings to suit the recipient's style, they'll look forward to wearing your token of affection for years to come.

Are Earrings a Good Present?

Earrings make an excellent gift for any occasion, whether you attend a graduation celebration or your best friend's birthday party. Earrings also make a great gift for a newly blossoming relationship because they represent love and loyalty without the commitment of an engagement ring.

Overall, earrings make a meaningful gift the recipient will never forget, and you'll have plenty of jaw-dropping options regardless of your budget.

What Kind of EarringsShould You Buyas a Gift?

Earrings come in many shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular earring styles you can choose from include:

  • Studs: Studs are a popular earring choice for men, women and children. Studs are highly versatile and flattering to any face shape. Astud earring usually features a gemstone or ornament fixed to a post. The post passes through the pierced earand a fastener on the other side holds it in place. Stud earrings are small and easy to pair with everything from an evening gown to a T-shirt and jeans.
  • Hoops: Hoop earrings have a circular shape. Somehoop earrings pass through the ear piercing to complete a full circle, while others have a semi-circle design and pass through the ear with a post –– similar to stud earrings. Hoop earrings can be made of gold or sterling silverand decorated with diamonds, gemstones, pearls or dangling charms. They come in a range of sizes to suit any style from big and bold hoops to small and dainty hoops.
  • Drop:Drop earrings feature gemstones, metal designs, beads, pearls or other forms of ornamentation that drop down from a hoop, post or wire.Drop earrings can be simple and delicate or bold and colorful. They are available in a variety of lengths from short to shoulder-grazing.
  • Chandelier:Chandelier earrings are a type of drop earring that usually consist of ornate tiers.Chandelier earrings make a statement and add drama and elegance to an outfit.

What Color Earrings Should You Purchase?

What kind of earrings to buy for a present can depend on your recipient's favorite colors and style preferences. If they prefer just metals, gold or silver hoops with some detail might work. You can find hoops adorned with colorful gemstones if you know they'd love hoops with some color.

Consider the following factors when choosing the color of an earring present:

  • Birthstone: An easy way to select an earring color is to choose earrings that feature therecipient's birthstone. For example, if your girlfriend was born in July, you might give herruby earrings. Birthstone earrings are a great way to celebrate a birthday.
  • Skin undertone:You can choose earring colors that complement your loved one's skin tone. For example, if your someone special has warm, yellow or peach skin undertones, chosegold earrings for a stunning look. If they have pink or blue undertones,sterling silver orwhite gold earrings fit beautifully.
  • Favorite color:Is your loved one devoted to a particular color? If they adore purple, for example, you might look for a pair of spellbindingamethyst earrings.
  • Eye color:Earrings can make someone's eye color pop by adding contrast or highlighting eye color undertones. For example, you might choose light green earrings to bring out the undertones in hazel eyes or yellow and gold earrings to bring out the lighter undertones in brown eyes.

If you're still not sure which color earrings to get, you can't go wrong with a pair of diamond earrings. Diamonds make everyone look and feel like a million bucks.

Tips for Choosing Earrings as a Gift

The best earrings for a gift are those that show you put thought into the purchase. Thoughtfulness means considering what your recipient enjoys wearing and basing your purchase on their preferences.

To determine the best earrings for your loved one, consider the following factors:

  • Face shape: First, think of the recipient's face shape. Considering their face shapehelps you choose an earring type that naturally complements them. In general, if they have a round face shape, avoid hoops or circular earrings and choose shapes that elongate the face. If they have a square face, round hoop earrings can soften the jawline. Stud earrings suit any face shape.
  • What they already wear:What type of earrings does your loved one already wear? This observation can be a clue to their style and what they feel comfortable wearing. If they wear a gold wedding band or engagement ring,they might love a pair of gold earrings. If they wear lots of blue, topaz earrings might complement their wardrobe.
  • Lifestyle:Consider what your loved one does every day, as this can affect the earring choice. For instance, if your loved one works with people as a nurse or teacher, you might choose simple, snag-free stud earrings. If they are a creative type who loves to let their individuality shine,choose earrings that reflect their artistic side.
  • Purpose:Do youwant to buy earrings that your loved one can wear with everyday attire, or do you want to give them a glamorous gift reserved for special occasions? Stick with versatile earrings like diamond studs or hoops if you want to give them something they can wear with any outfit. If you want to increase the glam factor, consider chandelier or drop earrings with lots of sparkle.
  • Interests:You can also choose earrings that reflect your loved one's unique personality and interests — consider earrings shaped like their favorite animal or hobby.
  • Age: Shimmering 1 CT diamond dangle earrings might be perfect for your wife, while studs or themed earrings might be a better fit for your young niece. The age of the recipient and the purpose can factor into your decision.

Earring Gift Ideas for Kids

Giving a child earrings for a present is something they can cherish for many years. It may be their first pair of earrings or a gift to commemorate a milestone or birthday. The best earrings to give a child are comfortable to wear, small and fit securely with a screw-on back. A screw-back earring has a threaded post and allows the fastener to twist into place. A covered screw-back covers the post to keep the end of the post from poking through.

It's also important to choose a metal that does not contain nickel to avoid allergic reactions. Your best bet is to go with stainless steel earrings. Platinum, titanium and 14K gold are other safe metal choices for kids who may be sensitive to metals. Lastly, aim to go with earrings that have a snag-free smooth surface. Here are some ideas:

  • Diamond studs: Diamond studs are a classic choice that a child can cherish for a lifetime. Diamond studs are suitable for boys or girls.
  • Birthstone earrings: Birthstone earrings are a popular choice for toddlers and older children. A simple pair of birthstone earrings offer a splash of color and sparkle,coordinate with any outfit and can be worn and enjoyed for many years.
  • Huggie hoops:Huggie hoops are designed to sit close to the earlobe and clasp shut to form a continuous hoop so that a back is not required. Simple gold or sterling silver hoops look adorable on a child, but you can also choose gemstone studded hoops for extra shine, or hoops decorated with flowers, butterflies or hearts.
  • Character earrings: Children love characters from their favorite books, movies and cartoons. You can choose earrings shaped like popular characters to make your little one excited to wear their new jewelry. For example, you might chooseMinnie Mouse studs for a Disney fan or Superman studs for the little superhero in your life.
  • Coordinated earrings: One way to celebrate your bond with your child is to buy them earrings that match your special jewelry pieces. Aim to choose earrings that are similar in color and shape to your everyday jewelry pieces, but smaller and simpler.

What Earrings Are a Great Present for a Girl?

Little girlslove being given a jewelry box with a special present inside. You can make a child feel like a princess by choosing an adorable pair of quality earrings. When choosing earrings for a girl, consider her style and shapes she likes. Here are a few earring gift ideas, especially for girls:

  • Pearls: Pearl earrings lend a timeless look, and your little one can wearpearl earrings for special occasions or with casual clothing.
  • Small dangle earrings:Consider choosing a pair of small dangle earrings featuring cute shapes likeunicorns, flowers orcupcakes.
  • Simple studs: You can find a range of dainty stud earrings for girls. Stud earrings for girls may be a metal embedded with a gemstone or decorated with an enamel design. You might choose stud earrings shaped like cats, teddy bears, butterflies, bows, crowns or whatever shape the child loves.

Earring Gift Ideas for Teens

Teenagers are independent and have their own fashion preferences. To buy earrings for a teenager, notice what they wear to gain a sense of their style. If they have a classic, casual style, stick with simple earrings like a pair of hoops. Do they like to keep up with trends? Choose earrings that are versatile but eye-catching, like diamond studs. They can wear timeless diamond studs with anything, including the latest fashions.

Like young children, teens typically have active lifestyles, and they may be more prone to losing earrings that do not have backs. Try to choose earrings that are comfortable to wear and feature secure backs. Here are a few earring ideas for teens:

  • Personalized earrings: Many teens want to express themselves and celebrate their passions. Consider what makes the teen in your life extra special, and what's important to them. For example, does your teen love animals and dream of becoming a veterinarian? Show your support and admiration with a pair of adorable sterling silverDog Fever studs.
  • Versatile hoops: The typical teenager experiments with different fashions until they find a style that feels authentic. Hoop earrings are versatile, timeless and look great with any style. You can choose larger hoops if that style fits your teen's personality. If they have a subtle style, stick with small hoops.
  • Heart-shaped earrings: A pair of heart-shaped earrings will remind the teen in your life that they are cherished and adored as they make it through their teen years and transition into adulthood. Heart-shapedhoops, for example, offer a fun and stylish way to say, "I love you."
  • Climbers: Climbers are a popular earring style perfect for a teen who wants jewelry that can be both elegant and casual. Climber earrings go into the ear like a stud and climb up the ear with the design. Consider climber earrings like theIppolita Cherish Collection earrings, which are bold and stylish.
  • Diamond studs: Diamond stud earrings make a meaningful gift a teen will appreciate for many years. Teens can wear diamond studs for special occasions like prom and graduation, or to feel spectacular when they go out with friends.
  • Simple drop earrings: A pair of simple drop earrings, like theselong drop earrings by John Hardy, add a touch of elegance to a T-shirt and jeans. Drop earrings can also act as a confidence booster for a first date or other special occasions.

Best Earrings for an Adult

Choosing earrings for an adult may seem easier than shopping for younger recipients. Unlike kids and teens, most adults have established their style and dress consistently. For example, you probably won't see your girlfriend wear large statement earrings if she's always worn small stud earrings.

Here are some ideas to spark inspiration whether you're shopping for your wife, girlfriend or special man in your life.

Earring Gift Ideas for Women

When it comes to choosing earrings for the lady in your life, it's most important to choose earrings she'll be comfortable wearing. Before you go earring shopping, gain a sense of your loved one's style and whether she prefers bold jewelry or subtle jewelry. Consider her lifestyle and the type of jewelry she can comfortably wear every day. Think about your relationship and the message you wish to convey.

If your relationship is young, you might want to stick with simple earrings that are beautiful and show you care but are not too extreme. Hoops or heart-shaped studs make excellent choices. If you're ready to show a greater level of commitment, consider diamond earrings.

Earrings are great gifts for the women in your life:

  • Diamond earrings: Diamond earrings make any woman feel adored and appreciated. You'll find many different styles of diamond earrings to choose from to suit your loved one's fashion taste. For example, if your girlfriend or wife prefers smaller pieces, consider high-sparkle studs like earrings from theGemstone Rhythm of Love Collection. Is her style elegant and a little edgy? She might lovecurved diamond earrings orunique diamond swirl earrings.
  • Eye-catching drop earrings: Is your loved one preparing for a special occasion and wanting to dress glamorously?Now might be the perfect time to surprise her with a pair of show-stoppingchandelier earrings or stunningcultured pearl drop earrings.
  • Gemstone earrings:You can choosecolored gemstone earrings to bring out your loved one's eye color, celebrate her birth month or convey a special meaning. For example, red has long been the symbol of love and passion while green symbolizes growth –– perfect for a growing relationship.
  • Pearl earrings: According to the International Gem Society, pearls have beenvalued for thousands of years. Pearls are elegant and resemble the beauty of the moon, and pearl earrings are highly versatile and look gorgeous with casual or formal attire. You might choosepearl earrings for your mother to symbolize how much you value her wisdom and guidance.
  • Simple hoops:A pair of versatile hoops make a wonderful gift for a woman. Choose her favorite metal, whether that be gold or silver, and she can wear her hoop earrings every day with any outfit.

Earring Gift Ideas for Men

If you're buying earrings for men, you have many options. The key to choosing an earring gift for the special man in your life is to keep it small and simple. Just like women, men cherish jewelry gifts. If you pick something based on his preferences, he will likely feel comfortable wearing your gift every day. Here are some ideas:

  • Hoops:Hoops are an excellent starting point for choosing earrings for a man. Hoop earrings look great on men, are versatile and give you a chance to choose his favorite metal.Choose small and subtle hoops.
  • Studs:Studs are another go-to earring choice for men. Studs are low-key but still make a sophisticated fashion statement.Go with simple sterling silver ball earrings or treat your loved one to diamond studs if he likes a little bling.
  • Novelty earrings: If your loved one has a casual, edgy style, surprise him with fun and stylish novelty studs in different shapes — like skulls or dragons.

Find the Right Earrings at Mountz Jewelers

A beautiful pair of earrings makes an excellent gift for that someone special in your life. You'll show your love and affection when you hand the recipient a box containing thoughtfully chosen earrings.

At Mountz Jewelers, we're ready to make your shopping experience as stress-free as possible. With a passion for fine jewelry and customer service, we can help you choose earrings that express your love and match your loved one's style. To find a timeless pair of earrings your loved one will cherish, visit us at one of our Central Pennsylvania locations or shop our online store today! You can also contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our trained specialists for your child or loved one to have their ears pierced at your preferred location.

Are you interested in learning more about Custom Stainless Steel Earrings? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!