Are you shopping for the perfect piece of jewelry? Maybe you’re planning a Valentine’s Day proposal or want something to spruce up your wardrobe. Either way, you want to ensure you find the highest quality item for your needs. Jewelry metal durability can help you decide what type you look for, in addition to style and aesthetic.
Why Does Durability Matter?
Durability is an important factor when it comes to searching for jewelry. This is because you need to keep in mind how well a specific metal holds up to standard wear and tear in daily life.. The more durable a specific metal is, the more likely it is to last for years and even decades to come.
Jewelry Metal Durability: Hardness Scale
One way to measure metal durability is with the Mohs scale of hardness. This measurement standard tracks gemstone hardness and metals, making it a valuable tool when assessing the kind of jewelry you are looking for. The Mohs system ranks materials on a scale from 1 to 10m, with 10 being the hardest and 1 the softest. At the most basic level, the Mohs scale measures jewelry metal durability by how likely a material is to scratch or be scratched. Metals ranked higher on the Mohs scale can scratch those lower on the scale. Diamonds are ranked 10 and are the hardest on the Mohs scale.
Noble Metals
Gold, silver, and platinum are some of the most popular jewelry metals. These are also known as “noble metals”. They get this name because of their value across cultures, availability, and malleability. Noble metals are also generally very durable. Let’s take a look at each of them.
Gold
Gold maintains its value over generations as one of the most well-known and esteemed metals. There is a reason why so many people across different cultures continue to buy and sell gold. It’s also a durable metal. Gold is around 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale, a lower measurement. However, it’s often mixed with other materials to boost the durability score.
Silver
Silver is another noble metal that remains valuable over time. In general, silver is more available than gold, and the cost is typically less expensive as well. If you are looking for an alternative to gold jewelry, silver is a solid option. This metal rates the same as gold on the hardness scale – between 2.5-3. Therefore, it’s not uncommon to see it mixed with gold or another metal.
Platinum
When it comes to jewelry metal durability, compared to gold or silver, platinum comes out on top. Platinum between a 4-4.5 on the Mohs scale. This particular metal is durable and resists tarnishing, which makes it a great choice for engagement and wedding rings. If you are looking for a ring, necklace, or another piece of jewelry you plan on wearing constantly, platinum is sure to fit your needs.
Shop Durable Metals At Stephen Allen Jewelers
With so many jewelry choices available, you can find a durable piece that’s beautiful and functional. Shop our collection online or visit us in person at 35 Maple Street in East Longmeadow, MA.
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