What are the raw materials of jewellery?

The structure of jewellery is composed of metals, the most frequent in this field being gold, silver, vermeil or platinum. Alloys are common because the purity of the base metals is not total. Copper is therefore commonly found in the composition of jewellery, as well as nickel and manganese.

The main metals used and their characteristics

Gold was the first metal used in history with the possibility of finding it in the purest form, at 24 carats. Many alloys exist in the field to offer different characteristics. A strong alloy will bring a more grey or pink gold but which can be preserved over a longer period of time. The mixture with palladium or manganese has these particular qualities. Silver has become a very popular metal because it is also one of the precious metals but it allows having more affordable jewellery. The new colour is also not to please private individuals because this grey will completely contrast with the yellow of gold. It is also in the form of alloys and may be found in a certain concentration of pure silver.  It is interesting to know that all have a very similar quality and that only the value will differentiate them. A silver jewel that is not absolutely pure silver will therefore be a good formula to enjoy yourself at a reasonable price. Steel has made its place in this environment because its processing capacities are such that it appears to be a very good alternative. Very inexpensive but particularly resistant, it is perfect for engraving on jewellery. Its colour close to that of silver also makes it popular because it is very pleasant. The quality of this metal explains why it is very often used by jewellers who make pendants or bracelets from this metal.

Modern materials

Jewellery has developed over the years and has been able to adapt to the shortage of different metals by offering alternative solutions. Plastic can be used to create perfect decorations to complement jewellery. Children's pendants and beautiful designs for bracelets and earrings are commonly found in this material. Creations can be found entirely in this material or only in parts to bring a touch of originality. The bracelets are transformed to accommodate new materials such as rope and leather. Perfectly in line with current fashion, these new materials make it possible to stand out from metals. Their originality has made them successful because today men and women of all ages adopt these completely different models. Rubber is a pleasant material to wear because it is light, unbreakable and can easily be combined with a look. Many bracelets are made in this material with the possibility of printing a message on it to completely personalize it. It is particularly appealing to children and teenagers who do not hesitate to collect them. Some stones have become essential, such as amber, which is proudly worn on the wrist, or the woman's personalized stone bracelet, which allows you to change the basic colour. The combination of several different bracelets will allow a very interesting mix of colours with tourmaline or sodalite which compose unusual jewellery. In any case, the pearls are making a comeback and are present in many of today's jewellery. Atypical materials are used in this field with soft velvet and small crystal stones that offer a very attractive result.
The list of metal to use in costume jewellery
How to recognize metals and materials?

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