⚖️ Gold vs. Silver vs. Alloys: A Comparison in Jewelry
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This comparison helps to understand the properties of these fundamental materials.
1. Gold
Gold is the precious metal par excellence in jewelry, known for its beauty, malleability, and inalterability.
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Characteristics |
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Composition and Purity |
Pure gold is 24 karats (24K) , but it is too soft for jewelry. It is alloyed with other metals (copper, silver, zinc) to increase its hardness and change its color. The karat indicates the percentage of gold: 18K is 75% gold, 14K is about 58.3% gold, etc. |
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Value |
Maximum. The value is high and tied to the international market price. Gold jewelry retains its value over time. |
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Oxidation/Wear |
No Tarnishing. Pure gold does not tarnish, rust, or blacken. However, lower alloys (e.g., 14K or 9K) may tarnish slightly due to the high percentage of alloying metals. |
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Allergies |
Hypoallergenic. Pure gold is hypoallergenic. Allergic reactions almost always occur due to the alloying metals used (especially nickel ). 18K gold is generally very safe. |
2. Silver
Silver is a more common precious metal, prized for its bright white color and more affordable price.
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Characteristics |
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Composition and Purity |
Pure silver is too soft. It is almost always used as 925 Sterling Silver , which means it is composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper). |
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Value |
Medium-Low. It is significantly less expensive than gold, making it popular for fashion jewelry. |
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Oxidation/Wear |
Yes (Tarnishing). Silver tarnishes (tarnishes) easily when exposed to air, moisture, and sulfur compounds (found in air, cosmetics, and sweat). To prevent this, it is often rhodium-plated . |
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Allergies |
Low Risk. Silver itself is generally well tolerated. The potential for allergies arises from the alloying metals, but is less common than with low-karat gold. |
3. Base Metal Alloys
This term refers to non-precious (or not primarily precious) materials such as brass, copper, zinc, or stainless steel, often used as a base for gilding or plating, or for inexpensive fashion jewelry.
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Characteristics |
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Composition and Purity |
They are combinations of common metals (e.g. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc; Stainless Steel is iron, chromium, nickel and others). |
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Value |
Minimal. The value is entirely linked to the design and workmanship of the jewel, not the intrinsic value of the material. |
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Oxidation/Wear |
Variable. Brass and copper tend to oxidize (green or dark), while stainless steel is highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion. |
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Allergies |
Higher risk. Cheap alloys often contain nickel , which is the main cause of contact skin allergies (dermatitis). It is essential for jewelry that comes into direct contact with the skin to be "nickel-free" . |
❗️ Focus: Allergies and Nickel (Nickel)
The most important distinction in terms of health is the presence of Nickel .
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Nickel is a common alloying metal used to harden gold, silver, and base alloys.
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It is the most common cause of jewelry allergies, causing redness, itching, and irritation.
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Material |
Nickel Risk |
Customer Recommendation |
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18K/24K Gold |
Very low (or none in 24K). |
Generally safe and ideal for sensitive skin. |
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925 silver |
Very low. |
Very well tolerated by most people. |
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Basic Alloys |
High! |
Check the "Nickel Free" label before purchasing, especially for earrings and rings. |
In summary, gold leads the way in value and corrosion resistance, silver is a lustrous and less expensive alternative, and alloys offer economical options but require attention to nickel content and oxidation (tarnishing).