What is Rhodium? Never heard of it!

Turns out this oddly named metal is a rare and expensive member of the Platinum family. Rhodium plating is common with wedding bands and other jewelry because Rhodium is particularly brilliant and durable.

Pictured above: Fire bracelet, Moda bracelet

Why is Sterling Silver jewelry so popular?

Silver alone is too soft of a metal for jewelry. This is why sterling silver is the dominant form of silver jewelry. It's an alloy of silver and a small percentage of a base metal to create strength.

Oxidized? That just means that the silver has been darkened to achieve a blackened appearance.

Pictured above: Sterling Silver Scalloped Ring - Oxidized, Sterling Silver Scalloped Ring

What in the world is Vermeil?

Pronounced vehr-MAY, gold vermeil is a form of gold plating that uses only precious metals. Here's an example of Gold Vermeil earrings using 24k gold and sterling silver. The gold and sterling silver are fused such that it prevents flaking and chipping of the gold.

White Gold and Rose Gold

An alloy composed of yellow gold and a white metal to add strength and durability. Contrary to popular belief, the white color you see is a result of Rhodium plating. Rose gold is an alloy composed of yellow gold and copper. Copper gives it that pink and rose coloring.

Pictured above: 14k Rose Gold Ring, 14k White Gold Ring

Are we missing any metals used in contemporary jewelry today? Let us know in the comments!

To keep up to date with our articles, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter! Subscribers receive free shipping on their next order!