Metal Types

There are a variety of metal choices available for jewelry. Whether you like the allure of platinum or the range of options with the classic gold, you will find a number of stylish pieces. Today, alternative metals like sterling silver, titanium, and stainless steel give you additional options in look, strength, price, etc. Check out an in depth look of different metal choices below.are a variety of metals choices available for jewelry.

Platinum

Platinum is generally 95% pure and does not tarnish or lose its rich white luster. Platinum is the heaviest of all the precious metals weighing approximately twice as much as karat gold. Its purity makes it hypoallergenic, perfect for people who are sensitive to the alloys used in gold. Platinum is also known for its strength and pliability, just one gram of platinum can be drawn into a fine wire over one mile long. While many of Schnack’s in-store pieces are found in gold, they can be remade or ordered to be platinum.

Gold

Pure 24 karat gold is rarely used in jewelry because it is too soft for frequent wear. Gold is mixed with alloys like copper, silver, nickel, and zinc to give different colors, strength, and durability. Gold's purity is measured in karats, which indicate out of 24 parts how many parts are gold. For example, 18kt gold contains 18/24 gold and 6/24 alloy, while 14kt gold contains 14/24 gold and 10/24 alloy. Gold is traditionally seen in yellow and white colors, but can also be available in rose or green on occasion. White gold will start to give off a more yellow look after some wear, which can be remedied by having your white gold piece re-rhodiumed. Majority of the in-store pieces Schnack’s carries are going to be in either white, yellow, or rose gold.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is usually 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Silver is much more plentiful than platinum or gold and is much less expensive. It takes on a much higher polish than any other metal, but it does tarnish. The tarnish can be removed, but silver requires much more care than other metals. While most of Schnack’s in-store pieces are found in gold, many can be remade or ordered in sterling silver.

Titanium

Titanium is a light, strong, and corrosion-resistant metal. Titanium is about half the weight of stainless steel but two times stronger. It is also hypo-allergenic and offers more scratch resistance than gold or silver. When ordering titanium rings, be extra sure about your ring size. The biggest drawback of titanium rings is that they cannot be sized by traditional ring sizing methods. They also can be laser engraved with special order. Majority of items in titanium (primarily mens bands) will need to be ordered through Schnack’s.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a low cost alternative to traditional metals. It is naturally hypoallergenic and will not rust or tarnish. Stainless Steel will not break or bend under normal usage and is stronger than any other alloy. Majority of items in stainless steel (primarily mens bands) will need to be ordered through Schnack’s.

Cobalt Chrome

Cobalt has a similar look to platinum, with great strength and light weight. Because of its temperature stability, cobalt alloys are often used in engine turbines and surgical implants. Majority of items in cobalt chrome (primarily mens bands) will need to be ordered through Schnack’s.

Tungsten

Tungsten is extremely scratch resistant. The weight is similar to platinum, making it a great alternative metal to a platinum band. It is often more of a gray color than white. Tungsten can be laser engraved with special order. Majority of items in tungsten (primarily mens bands) will need to be ordered through Schnack’s.