Precious Metals

The definition of a precious metal is one which is rare, and thus, of high economic value. Most people know that gold, silver, and platinum fall into this category. Yet, aluminum was once considered a precious metal as well. In fact, it was once so expensive to refine aluminum, the value of the metal was worth more than gold.

All About Gold

Gold has been valued since the beginning of recorded history. In its pure form, it is bright yellow with a beautiful luster that does not rust. Since pure gold (24 karat) is very soft, it is often combined with other base metals in jewelry-making. Copper, silver, palladium, or other base metals are used in an alloy to create 22k, 18k, 14k, or 10k yellow gold. Rose gold can be made by combining gold with an alloy of copper, while green gold is made with the addition of silver. White gold is made by combining the gold with palladium or nickel.

The Platinum Group

Platinum belongs to a group of other precious metals, which also include: rhodium, palladium, osmium, ruthenium, and iridium. In its pure form, platinum is silvery-white and wear- and tarnish-resistant. The platinum group is not mined specifically because it is an extremely rare metal. However, during the process of nickel and copper mining, platinum deposits are often found and refined as well.

Silver

Silver has the highest degree of electrical and thermal conduction of all metals, but is prone to tarnish. Sterling silver is harder than pure silver and consists of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper.

Base Metals and Alloys

Copper, stainless steel, iron, nickel, zinc, tin, and aluminum are all considered base metals. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and bronze is an alloy of copper and (usually) tin. Jewelry is sometimes made with base metals, but most tarnish easily and can leave a residue on the skin. Stainless and surgical steel jewelry do not have this problem, however, and they are also more durable than silver and gold jewelry due to the strength of the steel.

In recent decades, titanium has become a popular metal for jewelry-making, as it is a strong, lustrous metal that can be anodized into a variety of colors that will not fade.

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