FASHION + BEAUTY
Your guide to
metals
FEATHERS, EGGSHELLS: JOHNNY MILLER; STYLING: SARAH SMART; HEADSHOT: JESSICA KANE; RINGS COURTESY OF VENDORS
Don’t know the difference between platinum and white gold? No problem! Read up on your options before you select a ring setting.
PLATINUM A rare, natural white metal known for its strength and purity, platinum is usually 95 percent pure. Platinum’s density makes it extremely durable, meaning it will keep your center stone protected and secure. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, so it won’t irritate sensitive skin. While it is the most expensive of the metals, when platinum scratches, there’s very little metal lost, so your ring will withstand years of wear. Also, since it’s a pure white metal, it won’t cast any tint onto your center stone.
YELLOW GOLD Besides the fact that yellow gold is on trend right now, the pure form of gold has plenty of other appeal too. It’s about as low maintenance as it gets (it’s easier to clean than white or rose gold) and it’s a fairly hypoallergenic metal as well, depending on its karat measurement. Not to mention, it’s typically priced slightly lower than other fine jewelry metals like platinum.
WHITE GOLD Yellow gold is turned into white gold when the surface is plated with rhodium (a white metal). If you want the look of a white metal setting but don’t want to splurge on platinum, white gold is a budget-friendly choice. Though it has a similar resemblance to platinum, it’s more widely available and, therefore, less expensive. If you opt for this metal, keep in mind you may need to have your ring replated in the future. The white rhodium coating may eventually wear away and return the ring to its original yellow color.
EDITOR’S TIP If you fall in love with a ring that isn’t available in your size— say, you’re a woman in love with a men’s band or vice versa—don’t count yourself out. Ask if your jeweler can make your preferred design to fit you. — S H E L L E Y B R O W N senior fashion & beauty editor
the RULE
breakers
We’re obsessed with these new unisex-friendly designs.
From left: This luxe take on the signet ring is all about maximum sparkle. Ring, $7,700, Ceremony.us. A small diamond set on the inside of the band is a glam substitute for more traditional engravings. Band, $1,995, Forevermark.com
A hidden gem is a great alternative if you aren’t into lots of bling.
RO SE GOLD Made popular in 19th-century Imperial Russia, this pink-tinted metal is gold with an added copper alloy. The more copper alloy in the metal, the deeper the rosy tones will be. One of rose gold’s most attractive qualities is its underlying meaning. While white gold represents friendship and yellow gold means fidelity, rose gold symbolizes love.
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What if it’s a vintage ring? How will the quality and size of your diamond—and that of a replacement—be documented?
4/15/20 9:47 AM