Precious Metals

Precious metals are gold, silver, platinum and palladium. They are also called noble metals because rarity aside, they are highly stable chemically and resist oxidation and corrosion from acids.

Gold has always been, and will always remain the metal used by jewelers. In a pure form, its color is a unique bright yellow. Gold is extremely malleable and because its pure state is too soft for practical use it is easily alloyed with other metals to increase durability.

Platinum is denser than palladium and gold. Platinum retains its exalted status due to a combination of beauty, durability and strength. Unlike other metals, platinum is a pure white metal, and is the heaviest and densest of the metals used. It will outlast gold by 40 to 50 years.

Palladium is less expensive than platinum and is hardened with ruthenium for diamond settings and white gold rings. It enhances the whiteness in white gold and is used for its strength. It is less dense than platinum or gold and can make larger jewelry less heavy. Palladium is added to gold and silver alloys to improve tarnish resistance.

Platinum and palladium are highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion in the air. Their great strength assures their reliability in holding precious stones in settings.

Silver is a soft white metals so copper is added to it to give it a suitable hardness to work with the jewelry design. Silver offers the elegance, versatility and moderate price-a great gift choice.