Why Metal Matters
It’s not just about color or cost. It’s about how your jewelry feels against the skin. How it holds your stones. How it ages, protects, glows — and stays with you over time.
This guide is your entry point into understanding every metal we offer across all jewelry types — rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, bangles, and more. Whether you’re gifting, customizing, or investing in a forever piece, this page will help you choose with confidence.
What Makes a Metal “Fine”?
A precious metal is defined by more than beauty. The qualities that matter include:
- Purity – How much of the core metal is present
- Color Tone – From warm yellows to icy silvers
- Weight – Some are featherlight, others luxuriously dense
- Durability – Scratch resistance and lifespan
- Tarnish Resistance – How it reacts over time
- Hypoallergenic Safety – Especially for sensitive skin
Xavia offers metals not just for how they look — but how they live with you.
Compare Your Metal Options
Metal | Purity | Color | Weight | Durability | Tarnish? | Hypoallergenic | Price | Common Uses |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
10KT Gold | 41.7% Gold | Pale Yellow | Light | Very High | No | Yes | $$ | Daily rings, bracelets, gifts |
14KT Gold | 58.5% Gold | Warm Yellow | Medium | High | No | Yes | $$$ | Bridal rings, earrings, stacking |
18KT Gold | 75% Gold | Rich Yellow | Heavier | Moderate | No | Yes | $$$$ | Heirlooms, luxury sets |
950 Platinum | 95% Pure | Cool White | Heaviest | Extremely High | No | 100% Yes | $$$$$ | Engagement, timeless pieces |
925 Silver | 92.5% Silver | Bright White | Light | Low | Yes | Often Yes | $ | Fashion, gifting, lightwear |
Gold, Unlocked: 10KT vs 14KT vs 18KT
Gold Remains the Most Iconic Choice — But Not All Gold Is the Same
-
▸ 10KT Gold
- Affordable, durable, lightest
- Pale tone, suitable for daily wear
- Best for entry-level or rugged jewelry
-
▸ 14KT Gold
- Balanced purity, strength, and cost
- Perfect for engagement rings, earrings, bracelets
- Available in Yellow, White, and Rose
-
▸ 18KT Gold
- Richest color tone, softest feel
- Ideal for heirloom gifts, bridal sets, and luxury personalization
- Slightly more delicate, but visually stunning
Xavia crafts all gold pieces in your preferred karat and color.
White Gold vs Platinum – Know the Difference
These metals look similar — but behave very differently.
Feature | White Gold | Platinum |
---|---|---|
Composition | Gold + Alloys + Rhodium Plating | 95% Pure Platinum |
Color | Bright White (via plating) | Natural White |
Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
Durability | Strong, but plating wears over time | Incredibly durable |
Maintenance | Needs re-plating every few years | Only polishing |
Hypoallergenic | Mostly, if rhodium-coated | Always |
Price | $$–$$$ | $$$$$ |
Choose white gold for classic shine with affordability. Choose platinum for purity, density, and unmatched longevity.
Metals for Sensitive Skin
If you or your loved one has skin sensitivities, here’s what to choose:
- ✅ 950 Platinum – Naturally hypoallergenic, nickel-free
- ✅ Rhodium-Plated 14KT/18KT White Gold – Safe for most wearers
- ✅ Custom Nickel-Free Gold – Available on request
- ⚠️ 925 Silver – Often safe, but alloys may vary
Xavia can customize any piece to be nickel-free. Just ask.
Which Metal Matches My Skin Tone?
Warm, cool, or neutral undertones? Let your metal enhance your natural beauty.
- Cool Undertones → White Gold, Platinum, Silver
- Warm Undertones → Yellow Gold, Rose Gold
- Neutral Undertones → Any metal — mix and match with confidence
Coming soon: Virtual Metal Match Tool
Best Metal for Each Jewelry Type
Jewelry | Recommended Metals | Reason |
---|---|---|
Rings (Bridal & Daily) | 14KT, 18KT, Platinum | Long wear, strength, sentiment |
Earrings | 14KT, 18KT, Platinum | Lightweight, safe for lobes |
Bracelets/Bangles | 10KT, 14KT | Durability, scratch resistance |
Necklaces | 14KT, Silver | Shine and drape |
Statement/Stackables | 18KT, Silver | Style + visual drama |
Gifting Jewelry | 925 Silver, 10KT Gold | Elegant & accessible pricing |
Global Metal Preferences (Know What’s Standard Where)
Understanding your region helps you choose better:
- India – 22KT is traditional for gold, but Xavia recommends 18KT for durability
- USA & UK – 14KT and 18KT are standard for bridal and daily wear
- Europe – 18KT Gold and 950 Platinum dominate high-end jewelry
- Australia & Canada – 10KT gold is common in casual jewelry
Xavia meets all global hallmarking and purity standards.
Does Silver Tarnish? Yes — But It’s Still Worth It
925 Sterling Silver oxidizes over time. But don’t let that scare you.
- Store in a dry place
- Wipe with a soft cloth after wearing
- Use silver polish occasionally
Silver is a fantastic choice for lightweight gifting, minimal stacking, and refreshing your look affordably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10KT gold real gold?
Yes. It’s 41.7% gold and incredibly durable — ideal for rugged or casual wear.
Which is the most luxurious metal?
Platinum, followed by 18KT gold. Both are top-tier in terms of purity and prestige.
Which metal is best for sensitive skin?
950 Platinum or rhodium-coated white gold. Xavia also offers nickel-free options.
Can I get any metal in any design?
Almost always. We offer full custom metal options across all collections.
Why is 925 silver so affordable?
Because it’s abundant and easy to shape — but it still offers premium elegance.
Final Thought: Metal is Memory
The metal you choose says something deeper than you might realize.
It tells your story. It reflects your pace of life. It complements your stone. And with Xavia, it becomes something worth keeping forever.