Alloys of precious metals in jewellery
Modern gold and silver items are not 100% pure precious metals. This is due to the physicochemical properties of the ore, which is too soft to keep its shape on its own. At the same time, do not confuse the meaning of jewellery alloy and an option for jewellery. The first one for the most part includes precious metals, and for the creation of the second, simple metals that are not of high value are taken as a basis.
Features of gold
To understand what jewellery alloy means, it is enough to know that no gold jewellery is 100% gold ore. Typically, the composition includes elements of silver, copper, platinum, zinc, cadmium and nickel. The more platinum and silver in a gold blend, the whiter the jewellery. And copper gives a red hue, giving jewellery the necessary strength. Gold turns purple when aluminum and gallium are included. A blue tint is obtained by adding rubidium and indium. Steel inclusions give a bright blue color and green is obtained using a combination of cadmium and silver. Scientists are still experimenting with incorporating different metals into the golden “solution” to create unique hues. At the same time, the optimal content of pure gold for jewellery is 58.5%.
Features of silver for jewellery
Wondering what a silver jewellery alloy is made of? It most commonly includes silver, aluminum and nickel. Moreover, auxiliary components are needed not only to increase the strength index, but also to reduce metal oxidation. Pure ore quickly turns black due to interaction with oxygen.
Interesting fact. Silver jewellery alloy was invented over 6,000 years ago. Already in ancient India, silver jewellery was highly popular. In Russia, women specially wore silver rings on their hands, since it was believed that this metal kills microbes while milking cows.
Tips for allergy sufferers
A little secret from jewelers. If you are allergic to gold, it is most likely caused by nickel in your jewellery. In order not to spoil your mood by the inability to wear jewellery, pay attention to platinum alloys. They are as beautiful and expensive as gold. Among them are jewellery with diamonds, sapphires and other gems. If finances permit, you can buy palladium products. They are durable and they are also adorned with precious stones. If palladium and platinum are too expensive, you can choose openwork silver jewellery.
What should be on the tag
Regardless of the type of jewellery alloy, a tag attached to a tear-resistant fishing line or thread with the manufacturer’s seal must be attached to each product. The label itself contains information about the type of metal, the number of carats in precious stones and the place of their extraction. Additionally, the processing option and date of manufacture can be specified.