With a quick overview of each metal you can determine which is suitable for you.
Yellow Gold:
This is the most common type of gold used in diamond jewelry. It is usually alloyed with copper and silver to strengthen it. The gold content will dictate how yellow the piece is. Generally, 18k gold has a deeper yellow than 9k and so on.
White Gold:
White gold has become quite fashionable in recent years. It has the same properties as yellow gold but is mixed with different alloys that give it its white color. It is plated with an even whiter metal called rhodium to enhance its appearance. General wear, polishing or buffing will eventually result in the rhodium plating wearing off. This is normal for white gold. To maintain this, we advise you have it periodically polished and rhodium-plated. This will help it to look like new again.
Platinum:
Generally 95% pure (18k gold is 75% pure), platinum does not fade or tarnish. Its purity makes it hypoallergenic & ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Silver:
Silver will tarnish over time. Regular cleaning and polishing will restore the original look of silver. Gentle rubbing with a polishing cloth will restore its brilliance and make it look like new again. Silver is a soft precious metal so re-adjusting of clasps and fittings may be required. You should treat clasps, links and stems on earrings with particular care.
Tungsten:
Tungsten is a resilient metal made to last a lifetime and shows little signs of wear. Hypoallergenic, this heavy metal is very brilliant due to its tough and enduring qualities.
Titanium:
A popular choice for its strength and durability, titanium is lightweight and hypoallergenic. This makes it a great choice for athletes or those with sensitive skin.
Cobalt Chromium:
This is a new element to the alternative metal industry. Its platinum look differentiates it from both tungsten and titanium. It is more scratch resistant than titanium but less than tungsten. Cobalt bands will not chip or crack. It is also lightweight and hypoallergenic.
Ceramic:
This is a space age, metal-like product but it is not a metal. It has been used in things like jets and on the space station. It has the same basic hardness and durability as tungsten and both have a greater hardness than titanium. It is very durable and long lasting but it will exhibit wear and tear at some point.
Black Titanium:
Black Titanium is an alloy which experiences atomic transformation at the molecular level to become ceramic hard. Exposure to heat turns the titanium black from the outside in. It possesses the same benefits as grey titanium but provides a rich, clean, distinctive black look to the metal that will not chip away. It is hypoallergenic and extraordinarily biocompatible. It is extremely scratch resistant as well.
Diamond Buying Tips: What You Should Know Before Purchasing a Diamond
What should you know?
Buying a diamond is one of the most meaningful purchases many people will ever make. Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring, anniversary gift, diamond earrings, or a custom piece of jewelry, understanding what to look for can help you make a confident and informed decision.
With so many diamond shapes, grading reports, price ranges, and setting options available, the buying process can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news is that learning a few essential diamond buying tips can make the experience much easier and help you find a diamond that fits both your style and budget.
Understand the 4Cs of Diamonds
The most important factor when buying a diamond is understanding the 4Cs:
- Cut
- Color
- Clarity
- Carat Weight
These grading categories determine the overall beauty, rarity, and value of a diamond.
Choose the Right Diamond Shape
Diamond shape plays a major role in the appearance and personality of a ring or jewelry piece.
Popular diamond shapes include:
- Round Brilliant
- Oval
- Cushion
- Emerald
- Pear
- Princess
- Radiant
- Marquise
- Asscher
- Heart
Round brilliant diamonds remain the most popular because they maximize sparkle, while oval and cushion cuts continue to trend for modern engagement rings.
Decide Between Natural and Lab Grown Diamonds
Many shoppers today compare natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds before making a purchase.
Lab grown diamonds are physically and chemically identical to mined diamonds but are created in controlled laboratory environments. They often cost significantly less than natural diamonds of similar quality.
Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years beneath the earth’s surface and may hold stronger long-term rarity appeal for some buyers.
Both options can be beautiful choices depending on your priorities and budget.
Always Ask for a Diamond Report
When purchasing a diamond, it is important to choose a stone that includes a grading report from a reputable gemological laboratory.
Common diamond reports include:
GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
IGI (International Gemological Institute)
AGS (American Gem Society)
A report provides independent verification of the diamond’s quality characteristics and helps ensure transparency during the buying process.
Final Diamond Buying Tips
Buying a diamond should feel exciting, not stressful. Taking the time to learn about the 4Cs, compare options, and work with a knowledgeable jeweler can help you feel confident in your purchase.The best diamond is not necessarily the biggest or most expensive — it is the one that fits your style, your story, and your budget while delivering beauty and meaning that will last a lifetime.