Choosing the Right Metal

Most fine jewelry has been traditionally made of Gold alloys, Platinum, Palladium or Silver.

The right choice depends on several factors, including price, durability, weight and color.

Click the Tiles to learn about the many choices available.

Today (2009) Platinum is more expensive, at least in US dollars, than ever in history.

Even So, platinum is often considered the best overall jewelry metal.

However, If price is paramount, white gold and Palladium 950 make more sense for many designs, particularly heavy pieces, or simple bands.

Titanium, Stainless Steel and New , more durable Silver alloys fill out the remainder of the options you can choose.

Not every item can be made in every metal; for example, Tungsten can only be made into simple shapes like bands, with no customization options.

Silver, although very inexpensive, will not usually hold up to a lifetime of wear that you should expect from an everyday piece like an engagement ring.

You can see current metal raw material prices here:

www.kitco.com