let’s talk: metals

When it comes to designing your perfect piece, there are many metal options to choose from. Picking the right metal to suit your style can be a daunting process, but we hope this post will help you make the decision. 

GOLD

Gold is the most popular metal with our clients. The different colour and carat options mean it is a versatile choice that can suit most styles and budgets. 

Gold usually comes in three colours - yellow, rose and white gold. However, when it comes to 24ct gold, it’s colour can’t be changed as it is 100% pure gold. Whilst absolutely beautiful, 24ct gold is soft and easily scratched making it not suitable for everyday wear. 

At Katie Lees Jewellery, we primarily work with 9, 14 and 18 carat gold.

The gold is mixed with different alloys to make the jewellery more durable and practical for wearing everyday. Whilst diluting the gold makes it stronger, it also changes the colour of the metal which is something to take into consideration! 

The higher the carat, the more gold there is in the piece - so a 9 carat ring would be 9 parts gold, whereas an 18 carat ring would be 18 parts gold.

For yellow gold, a mixture of silver and copper is added. The 9ct yellow gold tends to be a mellow yellow colour, and the colour gets richer the higher the carat. 

For white gold, we add silver or palladium. People are often surprised by the natural colours of white gold. For 9ct white gold, we tend to describe it as a warm silver. With a higher carat, the colour darkens to a polished grey.

High street jewellers often cover their white gold with rhodium plating which gives it a lustrous white shone. We champion the natural colour of our metals and we think they lend themselves well to our designs, but we can offer rhodium plating if you wish! We have a trusted Glasgow business who will complete your piece with rhodium plating for a charge of £45.

Finally, the modern favourite, rose gold. Copper is predominantly added to create the beautiful blush tone that so many of us love. There isn’t much of a difference in appearance between the carats… The 9ct rose gold is perhaps a bit cooler in colour, and it gets warmer the higher the carat. 

As a small business, we are constantly striving to be more sustainable. We are a registered Fairtrade Goldsmith, meaning we can source ethical gold so your piece can be designed with no moral compromise.

If this is something you’re interested in, please mention it in your consultation and we can get the ball rolling on sourcing the best Fairtrade gold for your future heirloom. 

PLATINUM & PALLADIUM

Platinum and palladium are both naturally white and due to their durable nature, they are typically more expensive than gold. 

Platinum is a very rare, dense metal. It is a bit heavier than its counterparts, but it is still comfortable to wear and looks incredible! It is an extremely pure metal so may be a good choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Palladium is slightly more affordable and softer alternative to platinum, but it polishes up just as beautifully!

Choosing your metal can feel like a bit of a minefield at first, but hopefully this post has given you some clarity. Ultimately the decision is down to you. Regardless of which colour, carat or metal you choose… You are opting for a precious, high quality metal that will look beautiful for many years to come. Consider your budget, your lifestyle and your personal taste - these 3 elements will help you to pick the right metal for you.

If you’re ready to book in for a consultation with Katie, click here. Our in-person consultations will allow you to see the metals and try some sample rings on. You can also see more examples of bespoke pieces in different metals on our instagram if you’re looking for inspiration and ideas!

If you have any more questions about choosing the right metal, don’t hesitate to get in touch.