Diamond Rings, Loose Diamonds and Diamond Jewlery
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Metals & Settings |
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Gold is typically measured in karats to describe the purity of gold compared to its alloyed metals. The purest form of gold is 24kt, however, it is weak and will easily scratch. To increase the metal’s durability for use in jewelry it is usually alloyed with varying quantities of other metals such as silver, copper or nickel. Altering the metal combinations of gold and its alloys will produce a range of colors known as white, yellow, rose and green gold.
Gold is not affected by heat, moisture, air and most corrosive agents. For centuries, wedding rings were traditionally made of gold since it is a long-lasting metal, holds its appearance over time, and is suitable for everyday wear. To care for your gold jewelry it is best to use a soft, non-abrasive cloth and a gold cleaning liquid or warm, soapy water. Remember to remove all gold jewelry before entering swimming pools since chlorine will erode the metal, making it possible to loosen stones from their settings. It is equally important to keep gold jewelry away from harsh chemicals like household cleaners that will create abrasions in the metal and reduce its luster.
Platinum
Platinum is a pure, exclusive and distinctive metal with a superior holding quality. Its brilliant white luster helps to reflect the brilliance of diamonds. Platinum jewelry that is 95.5% pure will be resistant to fading and tarnishing and will keep its appearance for life. Platinum's purity makes it hypoallergenic and is ideal for those with metal allergies and skin sensitivity. Its density and weight make it more durable and wear resistant than other jewelry metals, holding precious stones firmly and securely in place.
Similar to all precious metals platinum will scratch; however, it can be polished and restored with easily and with little weight loss. Platinum is the perfect choice for frequently worn jewelry, such as engagement and wedding rings. Platinum is the strongest metal and requires the least amount of maintenance. To care for your platinum jewelry you can use either a jewelry cleaning solution or soak it in warm, soapy water and gently dry with a soft lint-free cloth. You should not handle bleach or harsh chemicals when wearing platinum jewelry. Even though they won't harm the platinum, chemicals may discolor diamonds or gemstones. Over time, platinum pieces will develop a natural patina giving jewelry a duller finish. When this happens, you can take your piece to a qualified jeweler to have it polished back to its original state or you may decide you prefer this look to the other.
Silver
Silver is one of the most lustrous metals found on Earth and its malleability and ductility make it a valuable material with which to create fine jewelry. Silver is usually 92.5% pure and is alloyed with copper for added strength and durability. Silver has a metallic, silver-white hue in its polished state, but other finishes such as a matte finish or a combination of the two have become increasingly popular. Today, silver is even crafted with colored gemstones and diamonds for a simple elegance, appropriate for day or evening attire.
Over time, silver will slowly tarnish when exposed to environmental elements, chlorine and hairspray. To protect and whiten silver pieces jewelry is usually plated with rhodium. Rhodium is a form of platinum that will help to maintain the silver’s luster and appearance with wear. Not all silver jewelry is plated, however, and understanding the difference is important for the care of your jewelry.
Rhodium plated silver is generally cleaned with a soft polishing cloth and warm, soapy water or a fine cleaner. If your silver is not plated you may want to store your pieces in a tarnish prevention cloth or bag. The treated cloth slows down the tarnishing process and keeps the jewelry free from scratches. Silver without plating can be cleaned with a phosphate free detergent, a low abrasive cleaner or silver polish to remove tarnish.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has a greater ability to resist oxidation, rust and corrosion in many natural and man-made environments as opposed to most other metals. It has a protective oxide layer that is too thin to be visible and have an affect on appearance but makes the metal impervious to water and air. If and when the surface is scratched this layer quickly reforms.
Stainless steel has quickly become one of the newer fashion trends in the market. Stainless steel is used to create durable quality jewelry at affordable pricing. It is ideal for use in jewelry because it will not bend or break, change color or tarnish, and is hypoallergenic for those with metal allergies. To care for your stainless steel jewelry it is best to soak it in warm, soapy water or detergent and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Window cleaner is another option to remove grease and heavy grime. Do not use any harsh abrasives which can damage its natural protective coat.
Titanium
Titanium is a 99% commercially pure metal that is lightweight, strong, and lustrous. This metal is hard, wears well, and is resistant to corrosion from the atmosphere, including seawater and chlorine. Titanium is notably stronger than steel but with only 60% its density making it ideal for jewelry. Due to the metal’s characteristics of strength and resistance to temperature, titanium is used in jewelry as well as in aircrafts, spacecrafts, naval ships and missiles. Titanium displays a unique and fashionable texture and will not cause any metallic allergies. Titanium can best be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to restore its natural finish.
Tungsten
The name Tungsten is derived from the Swedish word Tung, meaning heavy and Sten, meaning stone. Tungsten is a grayish-white lustrous metal with a high density, strong properties and the highest melting point of any other metal. It is probably the hardest metal used in jewelry manufacturing at present time. Tungsten is a great metal for jewelry use because it will retain its polish longer than other metals and can resist damage and corrosion by most minerals and toxins in the atmosphere. Tungsten jewelry is polished to a mirror-like finish using diamonds, and unlike most other metals, will retain its perfect finish for decades. Jewelry made from Tungsten will never need polishing and is virtually resistant to scratching. Its tough endurance makes it the perfect metal for men’s jewelry items. Similar to stainless steel and titanium, it is hypoallergenic as well as environmentally friendly. Tungsten jewelry requires very little care and maintenance. Simply rubbing it with a soft, clean cloth will restore its bright finish. Tungsten jewelry will truly last a lifetime with no sign of wear or tear.
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