The Pros and Cons of Popular Metals Used in Jewelry: Gold, Platinum, & Silver

Most of us don’t give much thought to the setting’s metal until we’re deep into the process of choosing a piece of fine jewelry. That’s usually the moment it clicks—just how much the metal really matters.

The diamond tends to steal the spotlight, but the jewelry itself, whether it’s a pair of everyday lab diamond studs or a once-in-a-lifetime engagement band, only comes to life when the design and the metal complement each other. The right metal doesn’t simply add shine; it pulls the entire look together.

It’s also worth remembering that your metal choice plays a major role in how durable the jewelry will be over time. It affects how it wears, how it ages, and how well it can handle everyday life.

So today, Rare Carat is breaking down the pros and cons of the three most common precious metals in jewelry: gold, platinum, and silver. Each one has its own strengths, its own personality, and its own type of aesthetics. There’s no “best” metal or a “winner” here—just the one that feels most aligned with your style and your lifestyle.

Gold

If you’re shopping for gold jewelry, you’ll quickly come across the term “karat,” which is how gold purity is measured. Pure gold is 24K, but you won’t see 24K gold used in most fine jewelry because it’s far too soft. That’s why 18K and 14K gold are the most common choices. Both are mixed with other alloys—not just to bring down the cost, but also to increase hardness, strength, and everyday durability.

The mix and amount of alloys can subtly shift the color of the gold, which is why you’ll see different shades based on how each blend is made. In today’s jewelry world, three gold varieties stand out as the most popular: yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Each one brings its own personality and style, and all three are available at Rare Carat so you can choose the look that feels most like you.

Pros

• Very durable.
• Naturally resistant to corrosion.
• One of the rarest metals used in jewelry.
• Holds up well over time.
• Available in yellow, white, and rose tones.
• Has a long history of being used in jewelry across many cultures.

Cons

• Choosing between different karats and colors can feel a bit overwhelming at first.

Platinum

Platinum is one of the most-loved white metals in fine jewelry, and for good reason. It’s a premium option thanks to its naturally high purity. Besides, it’s about 30 times rarer than gold, which is also a key factor. Platinum naturally has a soft gray-white tone rather than a bright, high-shine white. Many people love this subtle, refined look, but if you prefer a lighter or more brilliant white, white gold is often the closest match.

Its hypoallergenic nature makes it a dependable choice for everyday wear, especially for anyone with sensitive skin who needs a metal that stays comfortable and gentle over time.

With thoughtful design, this metal choice has a way of bringing out fine details and adding a sense of character, giving the entire piece a look that feels genuinely personal. Want to know just how this metal choice can elevate a design? Check out Rare Carat’s unique platinum engagement ring collection for a glimpse.

Pros

• Corrosion-resistant.
• Its neutral color matches beautifully with any gemstone.
• Higher density than most other metals, giving it a solid, substantial feel.
• A reliable choice for those with metal allergies.

Cons

• Its rarity and excellent durability contribute to its premium pricing.

Silver

Just like pure gold, pure silver is also too soft to be used in jewelry on its own. That's why it’s typically mixed with alloys to create sterling silver—most commonly found in fine jewelry. This metal choice for fine jewelry is ideal for everyday pieces, not only because it’s highly affordable, but also for its incredible durability and hypoallergenic qualities.

Rare Carat also offers silver as a white metal option along with platinum and white gold because of its popularity. In addition to looking great and being affordable, silver also offers some interesting scientific benefits, such as its natural antimicrobial properties and subtle effects on thermal regulation and blood circulation.

Pros

• Bright and shiny.
• The most affordable of the three main metals.
• Its neutral color complements any gemstone.
• Can be polished to restore its original finish.

Cons

• Choosing the right finish and style may take a little thought.

To Conclude

By now, you likely have a better idea of which metal might be the right fit for your next jewelry piece. However, if you’re ever unsure, our GIA-certified gemologists are available to provide free, unbiased, expert guidance every step of the way.