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    <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/?sAtom=1" rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" />
    <author>
        <name>Wiesner - The Mokume Gane Goldsmith</name>
    </author>
    <title>Blog/Atom feed</title>
    <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/?sRss=1</id>
    <updated>2026-09-13T16:03:38+02:00</updated>
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Shibuichi as a mokume gane alloy</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/shibuichi-as-a-mokume-gane-alloy</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/shibuichi-as-a-mokume-gane-alloy"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Shibuichi is a traditional Japanese copper-silver alloy. Learn where the name comes from, how its characteristic gray hues are created, and what connection it has to Mokume Gane.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Shibuichi – a Japanese copper-silver alloy and Mokume Gane 
  First published on February 6, 2023 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 12, 2026.  
 Shibuichi is one of the traditional Japanese metal alloys. It consists primarily of  copper and silver  and is particularly interesting for its color effects: Through a controlled patination process, the alloy—which initially appears rather unremarkable—can develop surfaces ranging from gray to brownish-gray. 
 Shibuichi is therefore frequently encountered in the context of historical Japanese metal art—and occasionally in connection with   Mokume Gane  . 
 It is important to make this distinction:  Shibuichi is an alloy. Mokume Gane is a processing technique—or rather, the patterned layered material resulting from it.  
 What is Shibuichi? 
 Shibuichi is a copper-rich alloy containing silver. A classic composition consists of approximately  75 percent copper and 25 percent silver . 
 However, the composition is not limited to this specific ratio. Different proportions of silver and copper alter both the base color and the alloy’s behavior during subsequent patination. 
 Shibuichi is therefore neither a silver alloy in the sense of our standard 925 sterling silver nor a precious metal. It is an alloy whose main component is copper. 
 What does the name Shibuichi mean? 
 The Japanese name Shibuichi roughly translates to  “one-quarter.”  
 This refers to the traditional silver content: one part silver to about three parts copper corresponds to approximately 25 percent silver and 75 percent copper. 
 The name thus originally describes the composition of the alloy directly. 
 What color is Shibuichi? 
 The distinctive appearance of Shibuichi is primarily due to its surface. 
 Through controlled patination, the alloy can develop various  shades of silver-gray, gray, and brownish-gray . The actual appearance of the result depends, among other things, on the exact composition of the alloy, the surface preparation, and the patination process used. 
 It is precisely these controllable color variations that made Shibuichi appealing for traditional Japanese metalwork. 
 Shibuichi is not simply tarnished silver 
 The gray color should not be confused with the normal tarnishing of silver. 
 With Shibuichi, the composition of the copper-silver alloy is deliberately combined with a surface treatment to achieve a specific color effect. 
 In   925 sterling silver  , on the other hand, dark tarnish is an undesirable—or rather, natural—reaction of the silver’s surface with substances in the environment. 
 Visually, both processes can produce darker metal surfaces. Metallurgically and aesthetically, however, they are distinct phenomena. 
 Shibuichi in Traditional Japanese Metalwork 
 Historical Shibuichi works are particularly well known from Japanese sword fittings. 
 In so-called tsuba—the guard plates of Japanese swords—and other sword fittings, shibuichi was used in combination with gold, silver, copper, and other traditional alloys. 
 The goal was not simply to craft an object from a single material. It was precisely the interplay of different metal colors that enabled highly intricate ornaments, inlays, and pictorial representations. 
 Preserved Japanese works in museums, for example, show shibuichi used alongside gold, silver, copper, and shakudo. 
 Shibuichi and Shakudo—what’s the difference? 
 Shibuichi and shakudo are often mentioned together because both materials were used in traditional Japanese metalwork. 
 
 
 
  Material  
  Basic Composition  
  Typical Appearance After Patination  
 
 
 Shibuichi 
 Copper and silver 
 silvery-gray to brownish-gray 
 
 
 Shakudo 
 predominantly copper with a small amount of gold 
 very dark to nearly black 
 
 
 
 As a result, both alloys produce very different color effects. It was precisely these contrasts that were of particular interest for multicolored Japanese metalwork. 
 We explain more about the second material in our guide,   “Shakudo—Japanese Copper-Gold Alloy  .” 
 What does shibuichi have to do with mokume-gane? 
 Shibuichi can be used as one of the alloys within a Mokume Gane piece. 
 In Mokume Gane, different layers of metal are permanently bonded together and then further processed so that the individual layers become visible as a distinctive grain pattern. 
 An alloy like Shibuichi is interesting from a design perspective because its color can differ from that of silver, copper, gold, or other metals. 
 However, Shibuichi is  not an essential component of Mokume Gane . Which metals are combined depends on the design, the manufacturing process, and the intended use. 
 Does Wiesner use Shibuichi for Mokume Gane? 
 We do not use Shibuichi for our current Mokume Gane wedding bands. 
 Instead, depending on the model, we work with various combinations of  yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, and platinum . This allows us to create distinct metal contrasts without the need for subsequent patination to reveal the actual pattern. 
 We produce the raw material for Mokume Gane in our own goldsmith’s workshop. The different layers of precious metals are welded together and then forged and patterned. 
 For us, Shibuichi is therefore particularly interesting from  a materials science and historical perspective : It beautifully illustrates the significance of different metal colors in Japanese metalwork. 
 Why do we use different alloys for wedding rings? 
 For a piece of jewelry worn every day, it’s not just the unique color of a metal that matters. 
 For our Mokume-Gane wedding rings, the alloys used must be compatible both visually and technically. This applies to the welding of the layers, the subsequent forging, the finishing of the pattern, and finally, how the finished ring holds up in everyday use. 
 In the case of Shibuichi, there is also the high copper content. The characteristic color effect is also largely based on the surface patina. Especially with a ring, this surface is exposed to constant mechanical stress. 
 In contrast, our proven precious metal combinations produce their various colors directly from the alloys used. 
 Shibuichi and Mokume Gane—not the same thing 
 
 
 
  Shibuichi  
  Mokume Gane  
 
 
 Copper-silver alloy 
 Metalworking technique and patterned layered material 
 
 
 a single material 
 consists of several interconnected layers of metal 
 
 
 The color effect can be enhanced through patination 
 The pattern is created by building up and working the different metal layers 
 
 
 can be a component of a Mokume-Gane piece 
 Does not necessarily require Shibuichi 
 
 
 
 Shibuichi at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Material Type  
 Copper-silver alloy 
 
 
  Classic composition  
 approximately 75% copper and 25% silver 
 
 
  Meaning of the Name  
 literally “a quarter” 
 
 
  Typical color appearance  
 silvery-gray to brownish-gray after patination 
 
 
  Historical Use  
 Japanese metalwork, particularly sword fittings 
 
 
  Connection to Mokume Gane  
 Can be used as an alloy within a layered composite 
 
 
  Used by Wiesner?  
 Not in our current Mokume Gane wedding rings 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Shibuichi 
 Is Shibuichi silver? 
 No. Although Shibuichi contains silver, its main component is copper. In the classic composition, the silver content is approximately one-quarter. 
 Is Shibuichi a precious metal? 
 No. Shibuichi is a copper-silver alloy. Silver is a precious metal, but copper is not. 
 Why is Shibuichi called “one-quarter”? 
 The name refers to the traditional composition of about one-quarter silver and three-quarters copper. 
 What color is Shibuichi? 
 Of particular interest are the gray to brownish-gray hues that can be achieved through controlled patination. The exact effect depends on the alloy composition and surface treatment. 
 Is Shibuichi the same as Shakudo? 
 No. Shibuichi is based on copper and silver. Shakudo, on the other hand, is a copper-rich alloy with a small amount of gold and can appear significantly darker due to patination. 
 Is Shibuichi the same as Mokume Gane? 
 No. Shibuichi is a material. Mokume Gane refers to a technique or a patterned layered material made from several metals fused together. 
 Can Shibuichi be used for Mokume Gane? 
 Yes. Shibuichi can be used as one of the metal layers in a Mokume Gane piece. However, it is not a mandatory component of the technique. 
 Does Wiesner use Shibuichi in its Mokume Gane rings? 
 No. Depending on the model, we craft our current Mokume Gane wedding rings from combinations of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, and platinum. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Shibuichi is a good example of how traditional Japanese metalwork has made sophisticated use of material colors. A relatively simple alloy of copper and silver can develop a wide variety of gray hues through its composition and targeted surface treatment. 
 Shibuichi is therefore interesting for understanding Mokume Gane, even though we don’t use it ourselves in our current wedding rings. 
 In our   Mokume Gane rings  , we create color contrasts using different precious metal alloys. The principle behind it, however, is similar: it is the interplay of different metal colors that makes the structure of the layered material particularly visible. 
 You can find more information about alloys and jewelry metals in our   guide section on precious metals  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-12T09:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Recycling gold at Wiesner Mokume Gane wedding rings</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/recycling-gold-at-wiesner-mokume-gane-wedding-rings</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/recycling-gold-at-wiesner-mokume-gane-wedding-rings"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Gold can be recycled and reused time and time again. We explain what recycled gold is, why its quality isn’t determined by its history, and how old gold can be transformed back into high-quality jewelry at a goldsmith’s shop.
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            </summary>
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                 Recycled Gold – How Old Gold Is Transformed Into High-Quality Jewelry 
  First published on September 19, 2023 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 11, 2026.  
 Gold is virtually tailor-made for recycling. An old ring, a necklace that’s no longer worn, or a gold coin doesn’t lose its gold content just because it has already served its purpose. The precious metal it contains can be recovered, refined, and reprocessed into a specific jewelry alloy. 
 At our goldsmith’s shop, we have been purchasing old jewelry, bars, and coins for many years and returning precious metals to the manufacturing process. For us, recycled gold is therefore not an abstract sustainability issue, but rather part of our practical approach to working with a valuable material. 
 It is important, however, to make a distinction:  recycled gold is not automatically the same as family heirlooms.  With recycled gold, the focus is on recovering the precious metal. With   wedding rings made from family heirlooms or old gold  , on the other hand, the emotional connection to a specific piece of jewelry and its history can be a decisive factor. 
 What is recycled gold? 
 Recycled gold refers to gold that has already been used in another form and subsequently re-enters the precious metal cycle. 
 This can include, for example: 
 
 old or unworn gold jewelry, 
 damaged jewelry, 
 old wedding rings, 
 gold coins and bars, 
 production scraps from jewelry manufacturing. 
 
 What matters is not the form the gold previously took. What matters is the fine gold content and how the material is processed for reuse. 
 Is recycled gold of lower quality than newly mined gold? 
  No.  The quality of gold is not determined by whether the metal was previously used as a piece of jewelry. 
 If scrap gold is properly refined, high-purity gold can be recovered from it. This gold possesses the same fundamental properties as gold from a primary source. A gold atom carries no information about whether it was previously part of a ring, a coin, or a gold bar. 
 Rather, the fineness, the alloy used, its composition, and professional craftsmanship are what determine the quality of the resulting jewelry. 
 We explain in more detail what fine gold and designations such as 585 or 750 mean in our guide   to gold and fine gold  . 
 Old gold doesn’t simply become a new ring 
 When it comes to recycling gold, you shouldn’t imagine the process as simply melting down any old jewelry and immediately turning it into a new piece of jewelry. 
 Old jewelry can consist of a wide variety of gold alloys. In addition, there may be solder, coatings, other metals, or components that are not suitable for the new application. 
 Therefore, if the goal is to produce a precisely defined material again, the precious metal it contains must be appropriately processed or refined and then specifically realloyed. 
 What does refining mean? 
 During refining, precious metals are separated from other components and recovered in a high state of purity. 
 For jewelry production, the recovered fine gold can then be alloyed again with precisely defined proportions of other metals. This results, for example, in 585 or 750 yellow gold, rose gold, or other gold alloys with the desired properties. 
 The key point, therefore, is this:  The history of the gold does not determine the quality of the new alloy.  
 Recycled gold and family heirloom gold are not the same thing 
 This distinction is particularly important for our goldsmithing practice. 
 In traditional precious metal recycling, scrap gold is returned to a material cycle. After refining and realloying, it is no longer possible to tell which individual gold atom came from which original piece of jewelry. 
 With  family gold , however, it is precisely this origin that may be part of the client’s wish. An old wedding ring from the grandparents, a ring from the mother, or several pieces of jewelry from both families should not merely be factored into the price but should live on physically in a new piece of jewelry. 
 In such cases, we assess the existing material on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the alloy and the planned piece of jewelry, it can be processed directly, supplemented, or specifically realloyed. We provide more information on this on our page   “Wedding Rings Made from Family Gold and Old Gold  .” 
 Can 333 gold be turned back into 585 or 750 gold? 
 Yes. The number on an old piece of jewelry does not determine the fineness of a subsequent piece. 
 333 gold contains 333 parts per thousand of gold, 585 gold contains 585 parts per thousand, and 750 gold contains 750 parts per thousand. If an existing alloy is professionally processed and its composition is adjusted accordingly, a new alloy with a different fineness can be created. 
 With heirloom gold, for example, an alloy with a higher gold content can be produced by adding fine gold and, if necessary, other alloying metals. The best approach depends on the available material and the desired result. 
 Why is gold so well-suited for recycling? 
 Gold possesses a property that is exceptional for a recyclable material: it is not consumed through proper recycling. 
 Jewelry can be worn, melted down, refined, and the gold it contains can then be reused. In principle, this cycle can be repeated indefinitely. 
 This distinguishes gold from many materials whose properties deteriorate significantly with repeated use or reprocessing. 
 Is recycled gold more sustainable? 
 Reusing existing gold can reduce the need for additional newly mined gold. This is a significant advantage, as primary gold extraction involves mining, material transport, energy consumption, and impacts on the landscape and environment. 
 Nevertheless, the term  “sustainable”  should not be used too lightly. Even scrap gold must be collected, transported, analyzed, melted down, and, if necessary, refined. Recycling, therefore, also involves effort. 
 Furthermore, recycling does not automatically address the issue of responsible supply chains. For recycled precious metals, too, origin, documentation, and responsible handling within the supply chain are relevant. 
 From our perspective  ,  the more accurate statement is therefore:  Reusing existing gold makes sense because a valuable raw material that has already been extracted can be put to use again.  
 Recycled Gold in Mokume Gane 
 For our   Mokume Gane rings  , the quality and exact composition of the precious metals used are particularly important. 
 In Mokume Gane, different layers of precious metals are welded together and then forged and patterned. The individual alloys must not only produce the desired colors but also be technically suitable for joint processing. 
 Therefore, it is not a deciding factor for us whether the gold has been used at some point in the past. What matters is that we work with a defined alloy whose properties are suitable for our manufacturing process. 
 Can my own scrap gold be used in Mokume Gane? 
 This must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 
 With Mokume Gane, it is not enough for a material to simply be “gold.” The composition of the individual alloys influences their behavior during welding and forging, as well as the subsequent color effect of the pattern. 
 However, suitable family gold can be intentionally incorporated into a new piece of jewelry, depending on the source material and design. In this way, the history of an existing piece of jewelry can be combined with the unique structure of Mokume Gane. 
 Recycled gold or your own family gold—what’s the difference for the customer? 
 
 
 
  Recycled gold  
  Family gold  
 
 
 Gold from existing sources is returned to the precious metal cycle. 
 A specific personal piece of jewelry or its material is meant to live on. 
 
 
 After refining, the defined material quality takes center stage. 
 In addition to material quality, the specific origin of the gold is important. 
 
 
 The former form and origin of the individual piece of jewelry no longer play a role for the new material. 
 The connection to the original piece of jewelry is expressly desired. 
 
 
 Like other professionally processed gold, it is suitable for high-quality jewelry alloys. 
 Suitability must be assessed based on the specific material received. 
 
 
 
 Recycled Gold at a Glance 
 
 
 
  What is recycled gold?  
 Gold that has already been used and is reintroduced into the precious metal cycle. 
 
 
  Is it of lower quality?  
 No. When processed properly, the gold’s history is not a factor in its quality. 
 
 
  Can high-quality jewelry be made from it?  
 Yes. The key factors are purity, alloy, and professional craftsmanship. 
 
 
  Is recycled gold the same as heirloom gold?  
 No. With heirloom gold, the goal is usually to preserve the material from a very specific piece of personal jewelry. 
 
 
  Can recycled gold be used for Mokume Gane?  
 Yes, provided that the specific alloys required for the process are produced from it. 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Recycled Gold 
 Is recycled gold real gold? 
 Yes. Recycled gold is not a substitute material. The gold it contains is the same chemical element as newly mined gold. 
 Can you tell by looking at a piece of jewelry that it’s made from recycled gold? 
 No. The color and properties are determined by the finished alloy and how it is processed, not by whether the gold it contains has been used before. 
 Is recycled gold less durable? 
 No. In a properly manufactured alloy, durability depends on the composition, design, and craftsmanship—not on the gold’s history. 
 Can old gold jewelry simply be melted down? 
 Not always. Old jewelry may contain different alloys, solders, and other components. Before it can be reused, it’s therefore necessary to determine exactly what materials are present and what processing is required. 
 Can I use my own old jewelry to make new wedding rings? 
 Very often, yes. At our goldsmith’s workshop, we examine the existing old or heirloom gold and discuss whether it should be processed directly, supplemented, or realloyed. 
 Can existing diamonds also be reused? 
 That is also often possible. Existing diamonds or other gemstones can be set out and incorporated into a new piece of jewelry, provided their condition, size, and the planned setting are suitable. 
 Our conclusion from the goldsmith’s workshop 
 Recycled gold is not second-class gold. When precious metal is professionally recovered and processed into a specific alloy, its past does not determine the quality of the new piece of jewelry. 
 For us as goldsmiths, the responsible use of existing materials is therefore of utmost importance. Gold is too valuable not to be reused. 
 This idea becomes even more personal when it’s not just any recycled gold, but your own family’s gold that is to live on. That’s when the material cycle and memories come together: something completely new can be created from old rings, necklaces, or other pieces of jewelry without the material’s history being lost. 
 You can find more information about gold, alloys, and fineness in our   guide section on precious metals  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-11T09:25:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Rhodium</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/rhodium</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/rhodium"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Rhodium is a light-colored precious metal in the platinum group and plays a key role in jewelry making, primarily as an electroplated coating. We explain rhodium plating, its properties, advantages, limitations, and its use with white gold and silver.
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            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Rhodium – Properties, Rhodium Plating, and Uses in Jewelry 
  First published on June 5, 2019 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 10, 2026.  
 Many jewelry wearers encounter rhodium without even realizing it. Rhodium is used as an ultra-thin electroplated coating, particularly on white gold and silver. It creates a very bright, white, and shiny surface and can protect the underlying metal from oxidation or tarnishing. 
 However, rhodium is not simply a coating or a chemical additive, but a  precious metal  in its own right  from the platinum group . In its solid form, however, it plays hardly any role in jewelry. Its particular significance lies in rhodium plating. 
 What Is Rhodium? 
 Rhodium is a chemical element with the symbol  Rh  and atomic number 45. Together with platinum, palladium, iridium, ruthenium, and osmium, it belongs to the group known as the platinum metals. 
 The metal has a bright silvery color, is highly corrosion-resistant, and is characterized by high hardness and a very high melting point. Its density is approximately 12.4 g/cm³, and its melting point is about 1,963 °C. 
 Due to its properties, rhodium is used in various technical fields. For goldsmiths, however, one application is particularly important: the  electroplating of jewelry surfaces . 
 What does rhodium plating mean? 
 In rhodium plating, a very thin layer of rhodium is applied to a finished piece of jewelry. This is done electroplating, that is, using an electrolyte and an electric current. 
 The rhodium layer deposited in this process is extremely thin. For decorative jewelry applications, typical layer thicknesses range from a few tenths of a micrometer, depending on the process and requirements. 
 Rhodium plating therefore does not alter the fundamental construction of the piece of jewelry. It is a  surface finish . 
 Why is jewelry rhodium-plated? 
 A rhodium layer can serve several functions: 
 
 It creates a very bright and uniform white surface. 
 It has a strong metallic luster. 
 It is very hard and relatively scratch-resistant. 
 It can protect silver from direct contact with air and thus prevent tarnishing. 
 In white gold, it can produce a particularly bright and neutral white tone. 
 
 It’s important to note, however, that a rhodium layer  does not  make a piece of jewelry  scratch-resistant . While the coating itself is very hard, it is extremely thin. Signs of wear will still develop with daily use, and the rhodium layer can wear away over time in areas subject to heavy stress. 
 Rhodium and White Gold 
 Rhodium plating on white gold is particularly well known. 
   White gold   is not a naturally white form of gold, but rather a gold alloy. Pure gold, which is naturally yellow, is lightened by adding specific alloying metals. 
 Depending on the alloy used, white gold still has a slightly warm, gray, or yellowish undertone. A rhodium layer can transform it into a significantly lighter and more uniform white surface. 
 That is why it is important to distinguish between the two:  white gold and rhodium are two different materials.  A rhodium-plated white gold ring is still made of white gold. Rhodium is present only as a very thin layer on its surface. 
 Does white gold always have to be rhodium-plated? 
 No. Whether white gold is rhodium-plated depends on the specific white gold alloy and the desired appearance. 
 Rhodium plating is particularly useful when a very bright, brilliant white surface is desired. However, there are also pieces of jewelry where the natural color of the white gold is intentionally left visible. 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, one should therefore not automatically assume that every high-quality white gold piece of jewelry must be rhodium-plated. 
 Rhodium on Silver 
   Silver   is also frequently rhodium-plated. 
 Silver can tarnish due to reactions with sulfur-containing substances in the environment, resulting in dark discoloration. This is a normal property of the material and not a quality defect. 
 A rhodium coating isolates the silver surface from the environment and can thus significantly reduce tarnishing. At the same time, the piece of jewelry takes on a very bright, even surface. 
 An example from our goldsmith’s workshop: the Mokume Gane “Kora” pendant 
 A specific example from our workshop is the   Mokume Gane Kora Pendant  . 
     
 The visible Mokume Gane element of the pendant consists of 750 yellow gold, 500 palladium, and 925 silver. The supporting base of the piece is made of 925 silver and protected against tarnishing with a rhodium coating. 
 This clearly illustrates the purpose of rhodium in goldsmithing: It is not the actual material that defines the design, but rather a specifically applied surface finish. 
 How long does a rhodium plating last? 
 There is no fixed timeframe for this. 
 How quickly a rhodium plating wears off depends, among other things, on the type of jewelry being worn, the amount of mechanical stress its surface is subjected to, and the thickness and durability of the applied layer. 
 In everyday life, a ring is exposed to significantly more friction and contact with objects than, for example, a pendant or a pair of earrings. For this reason, the rhodium plating on rings can wear off much more quickly. 
 As a rhodium plating wears away, the color of the underlying metal gradually becomes visible again. 
 Can jewelry be rhodium-plated again? 
 In many cases, yes. 
 Before rhodium plating can be reapplied, the surface must be properly prepared. Scratches and signs of wear do not disappear simply by applying a new layer of rhodium. 
 Depending on its condition, the piece of jewelry is therefore first cleaned, restored, and, if necessary, polished. Afterward, a new layer of rhodium can be electroplated. 
 For rings with diamonds or complex designs, it’s important to determine beforehand which restoration method is technically feasible. 
 Is rhodium harder than gold or silver? 
 Rhodium is very hard in its deposited form. Electroplated rhodium coatings can achieve hardness values that are significantly higher than those of traditional gold or silver alloys. 
 Nevertheless, this does not mean that rhodium-plated jewelry is practically scratch-proof. The key factor here is, once again, the thinness of the coating. 
 In the event of a deep scratch, not only the rhodium coating but also the much thicker base material beneath it can be deformed. 
 Is jewelry made from solid rhodium? 
 In everyday goldsmithing, practically never. 
 Although rhodium has interesting properties, using it as a solid jewelry material is technically challenging and economically impractical. Its high melting point, mechanical properties, rarity, and price all argue against its use as a traditional solid jewelry metal. 
 In jewelry, therefore, we almost always encounter rhodium as a coating. 
 Where is rhodium used outside of jewelry manufacturing? 
 The most significant application of rhodium in terms of volume is not in the jewelry industry, but in automotive engineering. There, the metal is used in catalytic converters, particularly to reduce nitrogen oxides. 
 In addition, rhodium is used in various industrial processes and specialized technical applications due to its chemical resistance and catalytic properties. 
 While this industrial significance is interesting for a jewelry guide, it should not distract from the application that matters most to customers: rhodium plating. 
 Rhodium at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Chemical Symbol  
 Rh 
 
 
  Atomic number  
 45 
 
 
  Group  
 Platinum group 
 
 
  Color  
 silvery-white, very light 
 
 
  Density  
 approx. 12.4 g/cm³ 
 
 
  Melting point  
 approx. 1,963 °C 
 
 
  Typical use in jewelry  
 electroplating 
 
 
  Common base materials  
 White gold and silver 
 
 
  Effect  
 Very light-colored surface, high luster, protection of the base surface 
 
 
  Permanent?  
 No. The thin layer can wear off due to mechanical stress. 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Rhodium and Rhodium-Plated Jewelry 
 Is rhodium a precious metal? 
 Yes. Rhodium is one of the platinum-group metals and is related to platinum and palladium. 
 What does “rhodium-plated” mean when it comes to jewelry? 
 “Rhodium-plated” means that a piece of jewelry has been electroplated with a thin layer of rhodium. The base metal remains, for example, white gold or silver. 
 Why is white gold rhodium-plated? 
 A rhodium coating creates a particularly bright and uniform white surface. In contrast, the natural color of a white gold alloy can appear slightly warmer or grayer, depending on its composition. 
 Why is silver rhodium-plated? 
 A layer of rhodium can shield silver from direct contact with substances in the environment, thereby significantly reducing the typical tarnishing. 
 Does rhodium wear off? 
 Yes. Although rhodium is very hard, the layer used on jewelry is very thin. Especially on rings, it can wear off over time due to friction and daily wear. 
 Can a rhodium plating be renewed? 
 In many cases, yes. Before doing so, the piece of jewelry should be professionally cleaned and, depending on its condition, restored. 
 Is rhodium-plated jewelry scratch-resistant? 
 No. The rhodium coating is hard and abrasion-resistant, but it does not prevent normal signs of wear or deeper scratches in the underlying jewelry metal. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 Rhodium is less interesting for jewelry as a solid precious metal than it is as a high-quality surface finish. A rhodium plating can make white gold appear particularly bright and effectively protect silver from tarnishing. 
 At the same time, it’s important to understand what a rhodium coating cannot do: It does not make jewelry indestructible or permanently scratch-free. Especially for rings worn frequently, the coating is a surface that will change over time and can be renewed as needed. 
 For more information on jewelry metals, alloys, and their properties, please visit our   guide section   on   precious metals  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-10T10:50:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Shakudo</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/shakudo</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/shakudo"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Shakudo is a traditional Japanese copper-gold alloy that can develop a characteristic dark surface through patination. We explain the material, its history, and its connection to Mokume Gane.
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                 Shakudo – A Japanese Copper-Gold Alloy and Its Connection to Mokume Gane 
  First published on December 1, 2023 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 9, 2026.  
 Shakudo—more precisely, Shakudō—is one of the traditional Japanese metal alloys. What makes it special is not so much the base color of the metal as its surface, which can appear very dark to nearly black due to a deliberate patina. 
 It is primarily composed of  copper with a comparatively small amount of gold . Shakudo is therefore neither a gold alloy in the sense commonly used in jewelry today nor a distinct forging technique. 
 Nevertheless, the term frequently appears, particularly in connection with   Mokume Gane  . Both are part of Japanese metal art and were sometimes used together with other alloys. 
 What is Shakudo? 
 Shakudo is a  copper-rich alloy with a small amount of gold . The exact composition can vary depending on the historical recipe and intended use. 
 The subsequent surface treatment is crucial to its characteristic appearance. Through controlled patination, shakudo can develop a deep brown, violet-black, or nearly black surface. 
 The gold is not intended to make the alloy appear visibly golden. Rather, even small amounts of gold influence the behavior of the copper alloy during patination and thus the resulting color. 
 Is shakudo a precious metal? 
 Strictly speaking, no. Shakudo is not a precious metal in its own right, but rather a  copper alloy containing gold . 
 Its main component, copper, is not one of the classic precious metals. Gold, on the other hand, is. The fact that shakudo nevertheless frequently appears in the context of high-quality goldsmithing and metalwork is due to its historical and artistic significance. 
 In our guide section   on precious metals  , we therefore treat shakudo as a related topic in metallurgy. 
 Why does shakudo turn dark? 
 Freshly worked shakudo initially looks much less striking. Its well-known dark color only develops through a specific chemical surface reaction. 
 In traditional patination, a very thin dark surface layer forms on the copper-rich alloy. The metal’s composition, surface preparation, and patination process all influence the result. 
 Therefore, the black or dark purple appearance of shakudo is  not the result of applied black paint . It arises from a reaction occurring directly on the metal’s surface. 
 Shakudo in Japanese Metalwork 
 Shakudo is best known from historical Japanese metalwork. Particularly impressive examples can be found in the fittings and components of Japanese swords. 
 In so-called tsuba—the guard plates of Japanese swords—shakudo was used, for example, in combination with gold, silver, copper, and other traditional alloys. 
 The appeal lay in the strong color contrast. Darkly patinated shakudo could appear almost black next to gold or silver, thereby clearly highlighting even the finest inlays and ornaments. 
 Shakudo and Mokume Gane—what’s the difference? 
 Shakudo and Mokume Gane are often mentioned in the same breath, but they are not the same thing. 
 
 
 
  Shakudo  
 a traditional copper-rich gold alloy 
 
 
  Mokume Gane  
 a metalworking technique in which different layers of metal are permanently bonded together and then worked into a visible grain pattern 
 
 
 
 Shakudo can therefore be  a material used within a Mokume Gane piece . Mokume Gane itself, however, refers to the technique or the resulting patterned layered material. 
 This distinction is important: Not every Mokume Gane ring contains Shakudo—and an object made of Shakudo is not automatically Mokume Gane. 
 Our Mokume-Gane rings do not contain Shakudo 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, we use different combinations of precious metals for our Mokume-Gane wedding bands. Depending on the model, for example, we combine palladium, silver, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum to create a solid layered material. 
 The following rings therefore  do not  contain  Shakudo . However, they illustrate very well why different metal colors are so interesting for Mokume Gane. 
     
  Iroko:  These Mokume Gane rings are made of palladium and silver. The dark contrast here is not created by Shakudo. The characteristic wood grain becomes visible through the finishing of the various precious metal layers. 
 Why Shakudo Is Interesting for Mokume Gane 
 From a design perspective, it’s easy to see why shakudo was of interest in traditional multicolored metalwork. A very dark metal surface creates a strong contrast with gold, silver, or light-colored copper alloys. 
 It is precisely this principle—making different metal colors visible side by side—that also plays an important role in Mokume Gane. 
 Our current approach applies this concept to other materials. We select precious metals and alloys so that their colors harmonize with one another while clearly revealing the desired grain pattern. 
     
  Faro  also does not require shakudo. Here, palladium and silver form a light, finely detailed mokume-gane grain. Diamonds can add additional accents. 
 Shakudo and Shibuichi—Two Different Japanese Alloys 
 In the context of traditional Japanese metalwork, the term  “Shibuichi”  is often encountered alongside “Shakudo.” 
 These two materials should not be confused with one another. While shakudo is primarily based on copper and gold, shibuichi is a copper-silver alloy. 
 Both materials were prized for the hues that could be achieved through surface treatment and were used alongside gold, silver, and other metals in intricate Japanese metalwork. 
 Can Shakudo Be Used for Wedding Rings? 
 Technically, shakudo can be crafted into jewelry and combined with other metals. However, this does not automatically mean it is the best choice of material for wedding rings worn continuously. 
 The characteristic appearance of shakudo depends largely on its patinated surface. On a ring, this surface is constantly exposed to mechanical stress. Friction, scratches, and everyday wear and tear can alter the patina. 
 Added to this is the very high copper content. For our own Mokume-Gane wedding rings, we therefore prefer the combinations of precious metals that we have tested and proven. 
     
 Shakudo at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Material  
 Traditional Japanese copper-gold alloy 
 
 
  Main Component  
 Copper 
 
 
  Other major component  
 Gold in a relatively small amount 
 
 
  Typical color effect  
 After patination: dark brown, violet-black to nearly black 
 
 
  Historical use  
 Japanese metalwork, particularly ornate sword fittings and art objects 
 
 
  Is Shakudo Mokume Gane?  
 No. Shakudo is an alloy; Mokume Gane is a metalworking technique or the layered material produced by it. 
 
 
  Is Shakudo available at Wiesner Mokume Gane?  
 No. The Mokume Gane wedding rings we showcase are crafted from other combinations of precious metals. 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Shakudo 
 What is Shakudo made of? 
 At its core, Shakudo is a copper-rich alloy with a small amount of gold. Historical recipes may vary in their exact composition. 
 Why is Shakudo black? 
 The dark color is not caused solely by the alloy, nor is it the result of black lacquer. It is created through a deliberate patination of the metal’s surface. 
 Is Shakudo the same as Mokume Gane? 
 No. Shakudo refers to a material. Mokume Gane refers to a traditional Japanese technique in which different layers of metal are bonded together and worked in such a way as to create a distinctive grain pattern. 
 Can shakudo be a component of mokume gane? 
 Yes. Shakudo can be combined with other metals in multicolored metalwork and also in Mokume Gane compositions. However, it is by no means an essential component of Mokume Gane. 
 Does Wiesner use Shakudo for Mokume Gane rings? 
 No. Depending on the model, we craft our Mokume-Gane wedding bands from combinations of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, or platinum. The Mokume-Gane layered material is assembled, welded, and then forged and patterned in our own goldsmith’s workshop. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Shakudo is fascinating above all because a comparatively small proportion of gold can significantly influence the appearance of a copper-rich alloy after patination. The nearly black surface allowed Japanese metal artists to create strong contrasts with gold, silver, and other alloys. 
 Shakudo is therefore historically and materially significant for understanding Mokume Gane. However, it should not be confused with Mokume Gane itself. 
 In our own goldsmith’s workshop, we use different combinations of precious metals for   our Mokume Gane rings  . These combinations also produce striking color contrasts and unique grain patterns—though they are made from materials we have been using to craft our wedding bands for many years. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-09T10:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Green gold</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/green-gold</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/green-gold"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Green gold is a special gold alloy with a greenish shimmer that is created by a special atomic ratio of gold to silver. This alloy is occasionally used in jewelry making, especially for elaborate designs such as mokume gane wedding rings.
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                 What actually is &quot;green gold&quot; or &quot;green gold&quot;? 
 If you search for green gold on Google, you will notice that the precious metal alloy with a slightly greenish shimmering color can be found here. On the other hand, the term green gold now also seems to be used with the term &quot;green gold&quot; in the sense of fair trade gold. Interestingly, CBD products, i.e. dietary supplements made from hemp or cannabis, are also referred to as &quot;green gold&quot;. 
 Green gold looked up on Wikipedia 
 Green gold is a greenish-yellow gold alloy with no added copper. 
 The color is created by approximating the atomic ratio of gold : silver 1:1, which in the best case corresponds to a gold content of 646, at which the clearest shade of green occurs. As the silver content in this case is already over 40 %, the color is relatively light. Up to a third of the silver can be replaced by cadmium, which intensifies the green tone but reduces the favorable tarnishing properties and the melting temperature. The alloys are very soft and not very strong in color. Green gold is rarely used, usually e.g. to depict foliage or similar. 
  Today I asked the OpenAI about green gold 
  ... and got contradictory statements to Wikipedia.  
  Namely:  Green gold is an alloy of gold and copper, so named because of its green color. The alloy is often used in jewelry applications because it is more resistant than pure gold and has a unique color. The exact composition of green gold can vary, but it usually consists of 75-85% gold and 15-25% copper. 
  Here is the AI&#039;s response regarding toxic components in green gold 
 Yes, in some cases toxic metals such as cadmium or lead may be present in green gold alloys. To ensure that you are not getting toxic metals, you should buy green gold jewelry from a reliable manufacturer who performs regular tests to guarantee the quality and safety of the jewelry. 
 What does master goldsmith Markus Wiesner and the jewelry industry know about green gold? 
 First a few characteristics: 
 
 Unsatisfactory green color 
 slightly stronger color with toxic additional metals 
 Rather unattractive as a single jewelry color 
 If then as a contrasting color in e.g. Mokume Gane wedding rings 
 
 If only gold and silver are alloyed, as described in Wikipedia, the result is a &quot;soft&quot; precious metal alloy. Its properties must therefore be improved by adding copper. Incidentally, this applies to almost all gold alloys used in the jewelry industry and by goldsmiths. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Did you already know? We make exceptional jewelry and wedding rings without green gold 
     
 This  unusual pair of wedding rings  often appears greenish, depending on the light, even though they are made of platinum and yellow gold. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-08T10:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Red gold</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/red-gold</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/red-gold"/>
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                                            Rose gold is a warm gold alloy whose reddish color is primarily due to copper. We explain 585 and 750 rose gold, how it differs from rose gold, its properties, care, and its use in wedding bands and Mokume Gane.
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                 Rose Gold and Mokume Gane from Our Workshop 
  First published on June 9, 2024—comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 7, 2026.  
 Rose gold becomes particularly captivating when its warm hue meets precious metals of different colors. We make use of precisely these contrasts in our   Mokume Gane rings  . 
 The color isn’t merely on the surface. The different layers of precious metals are welded together in our goldsmith’s workshop to form a solid Mokume Gane composite, which is then forged and finished. As a result, the various metal colors themselves become an integral part of the grain pattern. 
 Jaboty – Red Gold Combined with Three Other Precious Metals 
 A particularly beautiful example of the effect of rose gold is our   Jaboty   model   —four-color Mokume Gane rings made of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, and silver  . 
 For Jaboty, we use  750 yellow gold, 585 rose gold, 500 palladium, and 925 silver . The rose gold forms warm reddish lines between the yellow gold and the significantly lighter gray and silver tones of palladium and silver. 
       
 This pair of rings in particular clearly illustrates the effect that red gold can have within a multicolored alloy combination: It does not appear as a solid red surface, but rather runs through the organic grain in lines and zones of varying widths. Next to the yellow gold, it appears warm and soft; in contrast to palladium and silver, the reddish hue stands out much more distinctly. 
 The color pattern is not applied or reproduced according to a fixed design. It emerges during the forging and shaping of the layered material, which was previously welded together in our workshop. That is why each pair of rings develops its own unique pattern. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-07T09:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">White gold</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/white-gold</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/white-gold"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Discover the history and significance of white gold, an almost colorless gold alloy that was developed in Pforzheim in 1912/13 as a cost-effective substitute for platinum. White gold is produced by adding metals such as palladium, nickel or silver and is characterized by its t...
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                 The origin and significance of white gold in the jewelry industry 
 White gold, an almost colorless gold alloy, was first developed in Pforzheim in 1912/13. It was created as an inexpensive and punchable substitute for platinum and quickly found its way into the world of jewelry. White gold became known as &quot;or gris&quot; (grey gold) in the French-speaking world and became the material of choice for jewelry designed to show off colorless diamonds. Before the development of white gold, silver, platinum and the slightly darker and lighter palladium were the materials of choice, but each had its own disadvantages. 
 The history and development of white gold 
 White gold arose from the need for a material for jewelry that was easy to work with and resistant to tarnishing. Before 1912, there were no pieces of jewelry made from white gold, as it simply did not exist. Silver, although inexpensive and easy to work with, tends to tarnish and lose its shine as a result. Platinum, on the other hand, was more expensive and more difficult to work with. Palladium, a platinum by-product metal, was a good alternative, but also darker and lighter than platinum. 
 The jewelry industry was looking for a material that combined the advantages of these metals without their disadvantages. Thus white gold was born. This new alloy made it possible to display colorless diamonds in all their glory without the material itself tarnishing or discoloring. 
 What is white gold? 
 White gold is a gold alloy that is given a pale white color by the addition of decolorizing metals. These metals, which are added to the gold to give it its characteristic color, are mainly palladium, nickel or, if the gold content is low, silver. The decoloration of the naturally yellow gold occurs continuously and requires a certain amount of these decolorizing additives. 
 Palladium is a platinum by-product metal that is often used to give white gold its color. Nickel used to be widely used but is less common nowadays due to its allergenic properties and legal regulations. Silver is used at lower gold contents to achieve the desired color. The remaining part of the alloy, which is still missing up to the calculated total volume, is often completed from a mixture of copper and silver. 
 The properties of white gold 
 White gold has several advantageous properties that make it a popular choice for jewelry: 
 
  Tarnish resistance:  unlike silver, white gold does not tarnish and retains its shine over long periods of time. 
  Hardness and durability : White gold is harder than pure gold and is therefore ideal for making jewelry that is worn every day. 
  Elegant appearance:  The almost colorless appearance of white gold allows diamonds and other precious stones to stand out particularly well. 
  Versatility:  White gold is easy to work with and can be incorporated into a variety of jewelry designs. 
 
 The use of white gold in the jewelry industry 
 White gold is used in a variety of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. It is particularly popular for engagement and wedding rings, as its neutral color enhances the brilliance of diamonds while being durable and easy to care for. 
 In the manufacture of white gold jewelry, rhodium plating is often applied to give the jewelry an additional shine and increase the surface hardness. However, this rhodium plating needs to be renewed occasionally as it wears off over time. 
     
   Here is an example of white gold wedding rings from Gerstner   
 Advantages and challenges of white gold 
 White gold offers many advantages, but there are also some challenges that need to be considered. The rhodium plating that is often applied to white gold to give it extra shine can wear off over time and needs to be renewed. In addition, white gold is more expensive to produce than yellow gold, as the decolorizing additives and the manufacturing process are more costly. 
 Despite these challenges, white gold remains one of the most popular choices for high-end jewelry due to its unique properties and elegant appearance. 
 All in all... 
 White gold has become one of the most important materials in the jewelry industry since its introduction over a century ago. Its tarnish-resistant, elegant appearance and ability to show off diamonds particularly well make it a popular choice for jewelry lovers around the world. The addition of decolourizing metals such as palladium, nickel or silver gives the originally yellow gold its characteristic white-pale color, which sets it apart from other gold alloys. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-05T05:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Platinum</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/platinum</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/platinum"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Platinum is one of the most extraordinary precious metals in the art of jewelry making. Learn why 950 platinum is prized for high-quality jewelry and wedding bands, how it differs from gold and palladium, and what makes this dense, naturally bright precious metal so special in...
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                 Platinum – Properties, Uses, and Advantages as a Jewelry Metal 
  First published on June 12, 2024 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 4, 2026.  
 Platinum is one of the most distinctive precious metals in the art of goldsmithing. Its naturally light, silvery-white color, high density, and excellent corrosion resistance make it an attractive material for high-quality jewelry—especially for wedding bands and engagement rings, which are worn for many years or even a lifetime. 
 Anyone holding a platinum ring for the first time usually notices a difference from many other jewelry metals right away:  platinum is exceptionally heavy.  This gives a piece of jewelry a unique feel and sense of value. 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, we use platinum both for classic jewelry designs and in unique material combinations. One example is our   Seraya Mokume Gane rings, crafted from 950 platinum and 750 yellow gold.   
 What is platinum? 
 Platinum is a chemical element with the symbol  Pt  and atomic number 78. Together with palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium, it belongs to the six so-called platinum group metals. 
 Pure platinum has a density of approximately  21.5 g/cm³  and a melting point of about  1,768 °C . By comparison, fine gold has a density of approximately 19.3 g/cm³. For the same volume, platinum is therefore even heavier than gold. 
 Another characteristic feature is its high chemical resistance. Platinum naturally has a silvery-white color and is highly corrosion-resistant. Unlike some white gold alloys, its light color does not need to be created by a surface coating. 
 950 Platinum – What Does the Number Mean? 
 In high-quality platinum jewelry, you’ll often see the designation  “Platinum 950” or “Pt 950 .” This number indicates the fineness: out of 1,000 parts by weight of the alloy, 950 consist of platinum. This corresponds to a platinum content of  95 percent . 
 The remaining components of a jewelry alloy influence, among other things, its workability and mechanical properties. Therefore, when comparing pieces of jewelry, one should pay attention not only to the name of the precious metal but also to the specific alloy. 
 Where does platinum come from? 
 Platinum is a rare precious metal. A large portion of today’s platinum production comes from South Africa. Other major producing countries include Russia and Zimbabwe; smaller quantities are also mined in Canada and the U.S., for example. 
 Platinum and the other platinum group metals often occur together in ore deposits. Extracting and separating them is correspondingly complex. In addition to primary mining, recycling also plays an important role today. Platinum group metals can be recovered, for example, from used catalytic converters, industrial applications, and jewelry. 
 A Brief Look at the History of Platinum 
 Platinum is by no means a material exclusive to modern industry. Pre-Columbian cultures in South America were already using platinum long before the metal was scientifically studied in detail in Europe. 
 In the 18th century, European scientists began to take a greater interest in this unusual white metal from South America. The name is derived from the Spanish word  “platina”  —literally meaning “little silver.” 
 Initially, working with platinum was difficult. Its exceptionally high melting point posed significant challenges for the metallurgy of the time. It was only with the development of improved processes that platinum became an important material for technical applications and, later, for jewelry making. 
 Why is platinum so well-suited for jewelry? 
 For us as goldsmiths, platinum is particularly interesting because of its combination of various properties: It is dense, highly corrosion-resistant, retains its luster over time, and can be expertly crafted into high-quality jewelry. 
 This makes platinum an excellent choice, especially for jewelry worn every day, such as  wedding bands and engagement rings . 
 
  Naturally bright color:  Platinum possesses its silvery-white hue by nature. 
  High purity:  Platinum 950 contains 95 percent platinum. 
  High density:  Platinum jewelry feels significantly heavier than jewelry made from many other precious metals of comparable size. 
  Corrosion resistance:  Platinum is exceptionally resistant to many chemical influences. 
  Excellent for diamonds:  Its neutral, light color harmonizes perfectly with colorless diamonds. 
  Characteristic aging:  Over time, as it is worn, the surface develops a distinctive patina. 
 
 Does platinum really scratch less than gold? 
 Here, it’s worth clearing up a common misconception:  Platinum does get scratched.  A platinum ring worn daily will not remain permanently mirror-shiny. 
 What matters more is how the material behaves under stress. Over time, the surface of a platinum ring changes due to many fine signs of wear and develops the patina typical of worn platinum. 
 Whether you like this patina is a matter of taste. Some wearers actually appreciate this increasingly soft, silky character. If you’d like a more highly polished surface again, you can have your platinum jewelry professionally refinished. 
 In general, however, the same applies to platinum as it does to gold, palladium  ,  or silver:  a piece of jewelry that is worn will eventually show signs of its life.  
 Why do platinum rings feel so heavy? 
 This is due to the metal’s exceptionally high density. Pure platinum has a density of about 21.5 g/cm³, while fine gold has a density of about 19.3 g/cm³. Silver, at around 10.5 g/cm³, is significantly lower. 
 Two geometrically identical rings can therefore have significantly different weights depending on the alloy used. 
 With a solid wedding band, this difference is quite noticeable. Many people find this substantial weight particularly pleasant and a sign of high quality. Others deliberately prefer a lighter ring. This is another reason why the choice of precious metal should not be based solely on technical specifications. 
 Is platinum harder than gold? 
 The simple statement “platinum is harder than gold” is problematic. After all, when it comes to jewelry, we don’t normally compare pure metals, but rather different  alloys . Their mechanical properties can vary considerably. 
 Fineness, alloy components, craftsmanship, and the condition of the material all influence hardness and malleability. Therefore, the mere designation “platinum” or “gold” does not reliably indicate which specific piece of jewelry is more scratch-resistant. 
 What’s more important in practice is this: A suitable platinum alloy can be an excellent material for a ring worn every day—just as a high-quality gold alloy can be. 
 Why is platinum jewelry often expensive? 
 Here, one must distinguish between the  market price of the metal  and the  price of a finished piece of jewelry . A temporarily lower platinum price relative to gold does not automatically mean that a comparable platinum ring must be less expensive. 
 Weight is a key factor. Due to its high density, a geometrically comparable piece of jewelry requires a correspondingly large amount of material. 
 Then there’s the craftsmanship. Platinum has a very high melting point and, when it comes to melting, soldering or welding, shaping, and surface finishing, it places different demands on the goldsmith’s workshop than, for example, traditional gold alloys. 
 The price of a platinum ring is therefore determined by several factors: the amount of material, the current precious metal price, the alloy, the design, and, above all, the craftsmanship involved in creating the piece. 
 Platinum or white gold—what’s the difference? 
 Visually, platinum and white gold may look similar, but metallurgically, they are fundamentally different materials. 
  Platinum is a precious metal in its own right.  White gold, on the other hand, is a gold alloy whose light color results from the combination of gold with other metals. 
 They also differ in weight and feel. Platinum is exceptionally dense and, for a ring of comparable size, feels correspondingly heavy. Which option is better suited therefore depends not only on the desired color, but also on the design, comfort, budget, and personal preferences. 
 Platinum, palladium, or gold? 
 There is no “best” precious metal. The materials have different properties and each opens up different possibilities in jewelry design. 
 Platinum is particularly well-suited for people who prefer a naturally light-colored precious metal with a high fineness and substantial weight. Palladium is also a naturally light-colored precious metal from the platinum group, but it has a significantly lower density. Gold, on the other hand, offers an exceptionally wide range of colors through various alloys, from yellow gold to rose and red gold to white gold. 
 If you’re torn between these materials, you’ll find a direct comparison in our guide,   “Gold, Platinum, or Palladium—Which Precious Metal Is Right for Your Jewelry?   ” 
 Platinum for Wedding Bands and Engagement Rings 
 Especially when it comes to   engagement rings  , platinum’s naturally light color offers a design advantage: colorless diamonds can appear very neutral in a light-colored setting because the metal has virtually no visual impact on the stone’s color. 
 Platinum is also an attractive option for wedding bands. Its weight, its understated light color, and the ability to create polished, matte, or textured surfaces open up a wide range of design possibilities. 
 It’s not just the precious metal itself that matters. Ring width, profile, material thickness, finish, and the individual hand-shaping all play a key role in determining how comfortable a ring will be to wear. 
 Platinum Meets Yellow Gold – Mokume Gane from Our Workshop 
 Platinum becomes particularly exciting for us when we combine its cool, light color with a warm gold tone. In our   Seraya Mokume Gane rings  , for example, we combine  950 platinum with 750 yellow gold . 
       
 The different layers of precious metal are bonded together in our goldsmith’s workshop and then forged and shaped. This creates a unique grain pattern in which light platinum lines alternate with warm gold tones. 
 The pattern is not a applied coating; it emerges from the solid layered material itself. The striking color contrast, in particular, beautifully demonstrates that platinum is not only interesting as a classic white ring metal but can also create a very special aesthetic effect. 
 You can find more handcrafted material combinations among our   Mokume Gane rings  . 
 Platinum in the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Platinum requires experience and a working process tailored to the material. Its high melting point of around 1,768 °C makes it clear that the metal cannot be treated as easily as just any gold alloy. 
 For us, this is precisely part of its appeal: the material and design must be considered together. Depending on the piece of jewelry, platinum is forged, shaped, joined, and then carefully finished until the surface and proportions are just right. 
 When it comes to a custom-made ring, therefore, it’s not simply a matter of choosing “platinum.” What matters most is how the precious metal is used in that specific piece of jewelry. 
 Platinum at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Element symbol  
 Pt 
 
 
  Atomic number  
 78 
 
 
  Color  
 naturally silvery-white 
 
 
  Density of pure platinum  
 approx. 21.5 g/cm³ 
 
 
  Melting point  
 approx. 1,768 °C 
 
 
  Typical fineness in jewelry  
 950/1000 = 95% platinum 
 
 
  Distinctive feature  
 High density and excellent corrosion resistance 
 
 
  Uses in jewelry  
 including wedding bands, engagement rings, settings, and custom jewelry pieces 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Platinum 
 Does platinum tarnish? 
 Platinum is highly corrosion-resistant and has a naturally light color. The typical change in appearance of a worn platinum ring is therefore primarily due to mechanical wear and tear and the resulting patina. 
 Is platinum heavier than gold? 
 Pure platinum, at approximately 21.5 g/cm³, is denser than fine gold, which is approximately 19.3 g/cm³. For the same shape and volume, a piece made of pure platinum is therefore heavier. In finished jewelry, the exact difference also depends on the specific alloy used. 
 What does “950 platinum” mean? 
 Platinum 950 contains 950 parts per 1,000 by weight of platinum, or 95 percent. 
 Is platinum scratch-resistant? 
 No. Even platinum develops scratches and signs of wear when worn daily. Over time, this results in a characteristic patina. If necessary, a platinum piece of jewelry can be refinished by a goldsmith. 
 Does platinum need to be rhodium-plated? 
 Platinum naturally has a light, silvery-white color. Rhodium plating is therefore not necessary to give the metal a white appearance. 
 Is platinum suitable for wedding rings? 
 Yes. Suitable platinum alloys are excellent for high-quality wedding rings designed for long-term wear. However, whether platinum is the best choice for a particular couple also depends on the desired weight, design, budget, and personal comfort. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 Platinum captivates less with its striking color than with its unique material properties. It is heavy, naturally light in color, corrosion-resistant, and is often used in jewelry with a very high precious metal content. 
 This makes it an exceptional material for wedding and engagement rings—especially for people who appreciate the metal’s substantial weight and understated white-gray color. 
 And platinum doesn’t always have to look minimalist: When combined with yellow gold in our Mokume Gane rings, it shows just how appealing the contrast between cool platinum and warm gold can be. 
 You can find more basic information and comparisons in our   guide to precious metals in jewelry.   
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-04T10:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Palladium</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/palladium</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/palladium"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Learn about the fascinating history of palladium, which was discovered by William Hyde Wollaston in 1803. Palladium, known for its corrosion resistance and high strength, is prized in the jewelry industry for wedding bands, engagement rings and mokume gane technology. Discover...
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                 Historical facts about palladium: 
 discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston, he named palladium after the asteroid Pallas. 
 He found it in South African platinum ore in samples obtained by dissolving it in aqua regia. Metallic  palladium  and alloys containing palladium come from the Urals, North and South America, Ethiopia and Australia. However, they have been exploited there, but are still extracted from nickel and copper ores. in contrast to silver, for example, palladium does not react with oxygen, i.e. it does not tarnish. If palladium is cold-formed, for example in the manufacture of&amp;nbsp;  Mokume Gane wedding rings  &amp;nbsp;palladium is much more reactive than the related element platinum, but still belongs to the precious metals. It dissolves in nitric acid. It dissolves slowly in hydrochloric acid with the addition of air. The precious metal character of palladium is comparable to that of silver, a neighboring element in the periodic table. It is the more noble metal in many acids. In hydrochloric acid, however, it is the less noble metal. 
 What is palladium actually? 
 Palladium is a chemical element with the symbol Pd and atomic number 46. It belongs to the platinum metals and is used in the jewelry and electronics industries as well as in automotive catalysis.&amp;nbsp; 
 How is palladium extracted&amp;nbsp; 
 Palladium is extracted from nickel and copper ores using a combination of pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. The first step is to smelt and refine the ore to separate the palladium. It is then extracted in a pure form.&amp;nbsp; 
 What special properties does palladium have&amp;nbsp; 
 Palladium has the following special properties: 
 
 
 Low density: palladium is the sixth densest metal and has a lower density than platinum. 
 
 
 High corrosion resistance: It is resistant to corrosion and oxidation, which makes it ideal for applications in the electronics and jewelry industry. 
 
 
 Catalytic properties: Palladium is an excellent catalyst and is used in automotive catalysis and petrochemicals. 
 
 
 Good electrical conductivity: It has good electrical conductivity and can be used as a conductor in electronic devices. 
 
 
 Good thermal conductivity: Palladium also has good thermal conductivity, which makes it suitable for applications in high temperatures. 
 
 
 What role does palladium play in the jewelry industry&amp;nbsp; 
 In the jewelry industry, palladium plays an important role due to its following properties:&amp;nbsp; 
 
 
 Hypoallergenic: It is hypoallergenic and is therefore suitable for people with nickel allergies who may be allergic to other jewelry metals such as gold or white gold. 
 
 
 Bright appearance: Palladium has a bright, white appearance that is comparable to platinum. 
 
 
 Tough: It is robust and corrosion resistant, making it ideal for use in jewelry such as rings, necklaces and bracelets. 
 
 
 Easy to work with: It is easy to work with and can therefore be molded into different shapes and designs. 
 
 
     
 Example of the    Use of palladium    in contrasting wedding rings, together with    Silver.    
 Isn&#039;t palladium mainly used for jewelry alloys such as white gold?&amp;nbsp; 
 Yes, that is true. Palladium is often used for jewelry alloys such as white gold. It is combined with other metals such as gold, nickel or copper to create an alloy with specific properties. The addition of palladium, for example, improves the corrosion resistance and the bright appearance of the alloy. White gold jewelry alloyed with palladium often has better durability and a bright, white appearance similar to platinum.&amp;nbsp; 
 However, nickel has been banned since 1982 and is subject to a declaration requirement. Therefore, nickel is no longer used in jewelry alloys.&amp;nbsp; 
 That&#039;s right, thanks for pointing that out. Nickel has indeed been banned in the EU since 1982 and is subject to identification if it comes into contact with skin. It is therefore no longer used in many jewelry alloys, especially in Europe. Instead, alternative alloys are used that are hypoallergenic and meet customer requirements. 
 Isn&#039;t palladium predominantly used here instead of nickel to alloy white gold?&amp;nbsp; 
 Yes, that is correct. Palladium is used instead of nickel in many white gold jewelry alloys because it is hypoallergenic and has a bright, white appearance. The addition of palladium also improves the robustness and corrosion resistance of the alloy. Therefore, it is a popular alternative to nickel in white gold jewelry alloys. 
 Well, not only an alternative, but nickel is no longer used in jewelry alloys in Europe, but at least not in Germany.&amp;nbsp; 
 Thank you for pointing this out. You are absolutely right, nickel is no longer used in jewelry alloys in Europe, including Germany, because it is banned and requires identification if it comes into contact with skin. Instead, palladium is often used in white gold jewelry alloys to create hypoallergenic and robust pieces of jewelry 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-03T09:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Yellow gold</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/yellow-gold</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/yellow-gold"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Yellow gold is the classic, warm-toned gold alloy used for jewelry and wedding rings. Learn how yellow gold is made, how 585 and 750 differ, and what role color, alloy, and craftsmanship play in the goldsmith’s workshop.
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                 Yellow gold: the classic gold color for jewelry and wedding rings 
 Yellow gold is the gold alloy whose color most closely resembles the natural hue of fine gold. However, jewelry is generally not made from pure gold, but rather from alloys whose composition is tailored to the desired color, workability, and intended use. 
 Typical yellow gold alloys consist of gold and other metals such as silver and copper. The ratio of these metals influences both the workability of the alloy and its exact shade—ranging from a lighter yellow to a warm, rich golden hue. 
 What is yellow gold made of? 
 Yellow gold is not a single, strictly defined alloy. The key factor is the fineness of the gold. In 585 yellow gold, 585 out of 1,000 parts by weight consist of gold; in 750 yellow gold, it is 750 out of 1,000 parts. 
 Depending on the formula, the remaining components include silver and copper, among other elements. A higher silver content can make the gold appear lighter, while copper adds a warmer to slightly reddish hue to the alloy. 
 If you’d like to start by learning what   fine gold   is and why gold is alloyed for jewelry, you’ll find the relevant basics there.   Silver   also plays an important role as an alloying element in classic yellow gold alloys. 
 585 or 750 yellow gold—what’s the difference? 
 The most obvious difference lies in the gold content: 585 yellow gold contains 58.5 percent gold, while 750 yellow gold contains 75 percent. 
 Due to its higher gold content, 750 yellow gold generally has a particularly distinct and rich golden character. In 585 yellow gold, a larger portion of the alloy consists of other metals. Depending on the formula, the color may therefore be slightly lighter or have a different hue. 
 However, the decision between 585 and 750 should not be based solely on the number. For a piece of jewelry or a ring worn daily, design, material thickness, surface finish, desired color, and the specific composition of the alloy also play an important role. 
 A higher fineness does not therefore automatically mean that an alloy is fundamentally better suited for every piece of jewelry. 
 How does yellow gold get its characteristic color? 
 Pure gold naturally has an intense yellow hue. When alloyed, the other components alter this color impression. 
 Silver can make the gold appear lighter, while copper creates a warmer hue. A balanced composition produces the classic yellow gold tone. 
 This is precisely where yellow gold differs from other gold colors. In white gold, the gold’s inherent yellow color is deliberately lightened significantly, while rose and red gold appear noticeably redder due to a higher copper content. 
 Yellow Gold from the Perspective of the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 For us as goldsmiths, yellow gold is not just a color, but a material. During forging, rolling, soldering, and polishing, it becomes clear just how much the specific alloy influences the working process. 
 For jewelry worn daily, it all comes down to the interplay of alloy, design, and finish. A solid ring behaves differently in everyday life than a delicate piece of jewelry. Similarly, a high-gloss polished surface shows signs of wear differently than a matte or textured surface. 
 Even yellow gold develops scratches and signs of wear over time when worn. This is perfectly normal, especially for wedding bands. If necessary, many surfaces can be refinished at a goldsmith’s workshop. 
 Yellow Gold for Wedding Bands 
 Yellow gold is one of the classic materials for wedding bands. Its warm color is unmistakably gold and can be combined with both simple ring designs and striking finishes, diamonds, and other precious metals. 
 Yellow gold is particularly striking in multicolored rings. When combined with lighter precious metals, it can create striking contrasts. 
     
 One example of this is the   use of yellow gold in wedding rings   together with the lighter   precious metal platinum  . The warm yellow gold tone can be used particularly effectively in multicolored and patterned rings. 
 Yellow Gold and Diamonds 
 Diamonds can create an attractive contrast to the warm hue of yellow gold. It is not just the stone itself that makes an impact, but always the interplay of the precious metal’s color, the setting, the finish, and the ring’s design. 
 Yellow gold therefore does not have to look exclusively classic. With unusual finishes, modern ring shapes, or strategically placed diamonds, very contemporary pieces of jewelry can be created. 
     
 An example of the   use of yellow gold in Gerstner wedding rings  . Diamonds are also set in these rings. 
 Yellow Gold in Mokume Gane 
 Yellow gold is particularly interesting for Mokume Gane because its warm hue contrasts distinctly with silver, palladium, platinum, or other shades of gold. This makes the forged layers and patterns clearly visible. 
 Which metal combination makes sense depends not only on the desired look. The alloys involved must also harmonize with each other in terms of craftsmanship and be suitable for the respective manufacturing process. 
 This is why, especially with Mokume Gane, it becomes particularly clear that the color and technical properties of an alloy cannot be considered separately from one another. 
 Does yellow gold change color? 
 Yellow gold does not require an additional coating to achieve its characteristic yellow color. The hue arises directly from the alloy itself. 
 Nevertheless, the surface of a piece of jewelry does change with wear. Fine scratches, tarnish, and deposits can affect its appearance over time. However, this does not mean that the yellow gold itself loses its fundamental color. 
 In many cases, the original surface appearance can be restored through professional cleaning or refinishing. 
 How do you care for yellow gold jewelry? 
 For routine care, lukewarm water with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or brush are often sufficient for suitable pieces of jewelry. 
 
  Avoid mechanical stress:  Rings should be removed during heavy work or activities with a high risk of impact or scratches. 
  Do not use highly abrasive cleaners:  These can alter polished or matte surfaces. 
  Avoid chemicals:  Harsh cleaning agents and similar substances should not come into direct contact with jewelry whenever possible. 
  Store separately:  Pieces of jewelry can scratch each other and should therefore not be stored loose together whenever possible. 
  Take gemstones into account:  Not every cleaning method suitable for gold is automatically suitable for every set stone. 
 
 For frequently worn wedding rings or jewelry with diamonds, it may also be a good idea to have the settings and the overall condition of the jewelry checked occasionally at a jeweler’s workshop. 
 Is 750 yellow gold better than 585 yellow gold? 
 Not necessarily. 750 yellow gold has a higher gold content and usually exhibits a particularly rich golden hue. 585 yellow gold contains a correspondingly higher proportion of alloy components and, depending on its composition, may have different color and finish characteristics. 
 Which alloy is a better fit depends on the piece of jewelry and your personal preferences. For wedding bands, factors such as band width, material thickness, surface finish, gemstone setting, and the desired gold color play a role in addition to the fineness. 
 Yellow gold, white gold, or rose gold? 
 All three are gold alloys. The most important visible difference stems from the composition of each alloy. 
  Yellow gold  retains the classic warm character of gold.  White gold  is significantly lightened by the addition of suitable alloying metals.  Red and rose gold  derive their characteristic hue primarily from a higher copper content. 
 Which gold color is the right one is therefore less a question of “better” or “worse” than of personal taste, design, and the desired interplay with other materials. 
 Conclusion: Yellow gold is much more than just yellow gold 
 Yellow gold combines the characteristic color of gold with the properties of a specifically formulated jewelry alloy. The fineness, silver and copper content, and the specific formula collectively determine the hue and finish. 
 For wedding bands and jewelry, yellow gold thus offers many possibilities: from classically polished rings to modern textured surfaces, all the way to multicolored combinations and Mokume Gane. 
 From our perspective as goldsmiths, therefore, the number 585 or 750 alone is not the deciding factor. What matters is that the alloy, design, and intended use are well-matched. 
  Originally published on June 1, 2024; comprehensively revised on September 2, 2026.  
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-02T09:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Gold / Fine Gold</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold/fine-gold</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold/fine-gold"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Learn more about gold and fine gold in jewelry making: What sets 999 fine gold apart, what 333, 585, and 750 mean, and why gold is alloyed for jewelry. An overview of properties, gold alloys, colors, and processing from a goldsmith’s perspective. 
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                 Gold and Fine Gold: Properties, Purity, and Use in Jewelry 
 Gold is one of the best-known and most time-honored precious metals used in jewelry making. Its warm color, durability, and exceptional malleability have made it a sought-after material for millennia. 
 In its nearly pure form, we refer to  it as fine gold . For jewelry, however, gold is usually alloyed. By combining it with other metals, its hardness, color, and workability can be specifically modified. This process results in, among other things, yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold, as well as the various finenesses we recognize in jewelry as 333, 585, or 750 gold. 
 What Is Fine Gold? 
 Fine gold refers to nearly pure gold. The fineness is expressed in parts per thousand.  999 gold contains at least 999 parts per 1,000 by weight of gold . Even more highly refined gold can be denoted, for example, as 999.9. 
 Gold has the chemical symbol  Au  and is characterized by its distinctive yellow color and high malleability. From a goldsmith’s perspective, this malleability is both a blessing and a curse: fine gold is excellent to work with, but it is too soft for many pieces of everyday jewelry. 
 Is 24 karat the same as fine gold? 
 When it comes to gold, you’ll encounter two different measurements:  fineness  and  karat . Both describe the gold content of an alloy. 
 In the karat system, the total content is divided into 24 parts.  24 karats thus correspond to nearly pure gold, or fine gold.  In Germany and much of Europe, it is more common to specify the fineness of jewelry in parts per thousand. 
 
  24 karat:  nearly pure gold, corresponding to approximately 999 fine gold 
  18 karats:  18 out of 24 parts gold, corresponding to 750 gold 
  14 karats:  14 out of 24 parts gold, corresponding to 585 gold 
  8 karat:  8 out of 24 parts gold, corresponding to 333 gold 
 
 Why is fine gold alloyed for jewelry? 
 Pure gold is exceptionally soft and malleable. While these properties are fascinating for artisanal craftsmanship, they aren’t always ideal for a ring worn every day. 
 In everyday life, a ring is constantly in contact with other objects and surfaces. A very soft material would develop scratches, dents, and deformation relatively quickly. 
 For this reason, gold is usually combined with other metals to form a  gold alloy  for jewelry making. Depending on the composition, this can influence the hardness, color, and other processing properties. 
 Which gold alloy is best suited for a piece of jewelry therefore does not depend solely on having the highest possible gold content. Design, wear and tear, desired color, and finishing also play an important role. 
 What do 333, 585, 750, and 999 mean when it comes to gold? 
 The numbers on gold jewelry indicate the  fineness in parts per thousand . They therefore describe what percentage by weight of an alloy actually consists of gold. 
 
  333 gold:  contains 333 out of 1,000 parts by weight of gold, or 33.3 percent. 
  585 gold:  contains 585 parts per 1,000 by weight of gold, or 58.5 percent. 
  750 gold:  contains 750 parts per 1,000 by weight of gold, or 75 percent. 
  999 gold:  consists almost entirely of gold and is referred to as fine gold. 
 
 The remaining portion of a gold alloy consists of other metals. The metals used and their proportions influence the properties—and, in particular, the color—of the finished alloy. 
 Is 750 gold better than 585 gold? 
 750 gold has a higher gold content than 585 gold. However, this does not automatically mean that it is the better choice for every piece of jewelry. 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, it always depends on the overall alloy and its intended use. A higher fineness affects not only the material’s value but also its color and workability. Therefore, different alloys may be appropriate for a ring, pendant, or other piece of jewelry. 
 The number alone, then, is not a complete measure of a piece of jewelry’s quality. 
 How are yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold made? 
 The color of a gold alloy results from the interaction of fine gold with the other alloying metals. Gold does not, therefore, always have to have the same yellow hue. 
 
  Yellow gold:  The classic warm gold color is created by a carefully balanced composition of the alloy, often using silver and copper. 
  Rose and red gold:  A higher copper content can give the gold alloy a pinkish to reddish hue. 
  Green gold:  A sufficiently high silver content can produce a yellowish-green hue. Read more about this in our article on  green gold . 
  White gold:  The use of suitable alloying metals significantly lightens gold’s intense natural yellow color. 
 
 The exact composition of a gold alloy is therefore not merely a technical matter. It is an essential creative tool for the goldsmith. 
 Fine Gold and Gold Alloys from the Goldsmith’s Perspective 
 Gold has a unique characteristic that is crucial for jewelry making: through alloying, a wide range of different materials can be created from the same precious metal. 
 For example, 750 yellow gold can differ significantly in color and finish from 750 white gold, even though both alloys contain exactly 75 percent gold. The fineness thus indicates  how much gold  is contained—but not  the color or the specific properties  of the alloy. 
 For us in the workshop, therefore, the entire alloy is always relevant. Especially with custom-made jewelry, the choice of materials can be specifically tailored to the design, comfort, and desired surface finish. 
 Is fine gold used for jewelry? 
 In principle, jewelry can also be made from very high-purity gold or fine gold. For many pieces of jewelry intended for everyday use, however, gold alloys are preferred because their mechanical properties can be more precisely tailored to the specific application. 
 The durability of the material plays a particularly important role in rings worn daily. That is why, for example,  585 and 750 gold alloys  are widely used in jewelry making. 
 Pure gold itself remains the starting point, however: it provides the gold content from which the desired jewelry alloys are created by adding other metals. 
 Gold in the Mokume-Gane Technique 
 The diversity of gold alloys is particularly evident in the  Mokume-Gane technique . 
 In this forging technique, which originated in Japan, different metals or alloys are combined and then worked in such a way that characteristic patterns reminiscent of wood grain emerge. 
 Here, the different shades of various gold alloys can be specifically utilized for design purposes. Yellowish, reddish, and lighter metallic tones create visible contrasts within a single piece. 
 Mokume-gane, in particular, beautifully illustrates why gold alloys are more than just a way to make fine gold harder:  the alloy itself becomes a creative tool.  
 Gold for Wedding and Engagement Rings 
 Due to their diverse properties, gold alloys are particularly well-suited for jewelry intended to be worn for many years or even decades. This includes, in particular, wedding rings and engagement rings. 
 Which gold alloy is chosen for this purpose is a personal decision. In addition to the fineness, the desired color, the ring’s design, the combination with other precious metals, and, of course, personal preferences all play a role. 
 585 and 750 gold offer numerous possibilities: from classic yellow gold to warm rose and red gold tones, all the way to light white gold alloys. 
 Does gold tarnish? 
 Pure gold is chemically very stable and hardly reacts with its surroundings under normal conditions. In jewelry, however, the other components of a gold alloy also influence its behavior. 
 The lower the gold content of an alloy, the higher the proportion of other metals must necessarily be. As a result, its properties may differ from those of high-purity gold alloys. 
 Gold jewelry is generally very durable. In everyday use, changes to the surface are more often caused by scratches, abrasion, dirt, or—depending on the alloy and surface treatment—by changes to the original surface finish. 
 Proper Care of Gold Jewelry 
 Gold jewelry usually requires very little care in everyday use. Light dirt can be removed from suitable pieces using lukewarm water, a mild soap solution, and a soft cloth. 
 
  Avoid scratches:  Store pieces of jewelry separately from one another whenever possible. 
  Avoid chemicals:  Remove jewelry when working with harsh cleaning agents. 
  Be mindful of surfaces:  Highly abrasive cleaners can alter polished or matte surfaces. 
  Be mindful of gemstones:  Not every cleaning method suitable for gold is automatically suitable for every set stone. 
  Professional restoration:  Depending on the piece of jewelry, more significant signs of wear can be restored at a goldsmith’s workshop. 
 
 Signs of wear are normal, especially on rings worn regularly. They do not necessarily indicate anything about the quality of the gold; rather, they result from daily contact with the environment. 
 Fine gold or gold alloy—which is the better choice? 
 There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Fine gold has the highest possible gold content and displays the characteristic color of the nearly pure precious metal. At the same time, it is very soft. 
 Gold alloys, on the other hand, allow for precise control over the material’s properties and color. For most pieces of jewelry intended for everyday wear, it is precisely this combination of gold content, design possibilities, and tailored material properties that is most desirable. 
 Therefore, the choice of a jewelry metal should not be based solely on the highest number on the hallmark. What matters most is which alloy suits the piece of jewelry and its intended use. 
 Conclusion: Fine gold is the basis for a wide variety of gold alloys 
 Fine gold is gold in nearly pure form and serves as the basis for the numerous gold alloys used in jewelry making. By combining it with other metals, its color, hardness, and workability can be altered. 
 The fineness marks  333, 585, 750, and 999  indicate the actual gold content. However, they do not alone determine which gold alloy is best suited for a particular piece of jewelry. 
 In our view, this is precisely what makes gold so appealing: from a single precious metal, different finenesses and alloy components give rise to materials with very different colors and properties—ranging from classic yellow gold to rose and red gold, all the way to white gold and the high-contrast combinations of the Mokume-Gane technique. 
  Originally published on June 10, 2024; comprehensively revised on September 1, 2026.  
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                            <updated>2026-09-01T15:49:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Silver</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/silver</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/silver"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Learn more about silver as a jewelry metal: its properties, 925 sterling silver, important silver alloys, tarnishing, care, and the use of silver in the Mokume-Gane technique. 
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                 Silver as a Jewelry Metal: Properties, 925 Sterling Silver, and Care 
 Silver is one of the best-known precious metals and has been used for centuries in jewelry, everyday objects, and coins. In jewelry making, we value silver above all for its light color, its characteristic luster, and its workability. 
 However, pure silver is rarely used in jewelry. Much more common is  925 silver , also known as  sterling silver . Through alloying, the comparatively soft fine silver acquires the properties necessary for crafting and the daily wear of a piece of jewelry. 
 What Is Silver? 
 Silver is a naturally occurring precious metal with the chemical symbol Ag. In its pure state, it has a very light, almost white metallic color and a distinctive luster. 
 Pure silver is also relatively soft. For this reason, it would not be ideally suited for many types of jewelry on its own. In the goldsmith’s workshop, silver is therefore typically alloyed with small amounts of other metals. This allows its strength to be specifically adjusted without losing the typical character of silver. 
 Why is 925 silver most commonly used for jewelry? 
 The most important silver alloy for jewelry making is  925 sterling silver . The number 925 indicates the fineness: out of 1,000 parts by weight, 925 consist of pure silver. This corresponds to a silver content of  92.5 percent . 
 The remaining 7.5 percent consists of alloying metals, often including copper, among others. This alloy makes the material harder and more suitable for many applications in jewelry making than nearly pure fine silver. 
 925 silver thus combines a high precious metal content with good workability and is therefore widely used in rings, pendants, necklaces, earrings, and numerous other pieces of jewelry. 
 Fine Silver and Sterling Silver—What’s the Difference? 
  Fine silver  refers to silver with a particularly high silver content. It is soft and malleable, but is not always the best choice for jewelry subjected to significant mechanical stress. 
  Sterling silver  contains 92.5 percent silver and additional alloying elements. This gives it greater strength. This difference is particularly crucial for jewelry: It is not just the highest possible fineness that determines a material’s quality, but also whether its properties are suitable for the specific piece of jewelry. 
 Silver in Jewelry Making 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, silver is an exceptionally interesting material. It can be sawed, filed, forged, soldered, polished, and combined with other materials in a variety of ways. 
 Its light color also provides an effective backdrop for gemstones and diamonds. Depending on the design, silver can appear very understated or be a deliberate part of a high-contrast design. 
   
 An example of    silver used    in an    engagement ring   . Here, silver is combined with    palladium   . The different metal tones create a clearly visible contrast. 
 What types of silver alloys are there? 
 In addition to 925 silver, there are several other silver alloys. The stamped number indicates how many parts out of 1,000 by weight consist of pure silver. 
 
  800 silver:  contains 80 percent silver and has been—or is—used for cutlery and everyday items, among other things. 
  835 silver:  contains 83.5 percent silver and is also found in older jewelry and silverware. 
  925 silver:  consists of 92.5 percent silver and, as sterling silver, is the most important silver alloy for modern jewelry. 
  935 silver:  has a slightly higher silver content at 93.5 percent and is also used for certain jewelry applications. 
 
 However, fineness is only one factor in evaluating a piece of jewelry. Equally important are the design, craftsmanship, material thickness, and the stresses to which the piece will be subjected later on. 
 925 Sterling Silver in Jewelry 
 925 silver can be used both for standalone pieces of jewelry and in combination with other precious metals. 
     
 One example is    sterling silver    incorporated into a piece of jewelry set with diamonds. You can find more examples in our    zodiac sign jewelry collection   . 
 Why Does Silver Tarnish? 
 One of silver’s best-known properties is what’s known as  tarnishing . Over time, the originally bright surface can turn yellowish, brownish, gray, or nearly black. 
 This does not mean that the silver is of inferior quality or damaged. The discoloration is caused by chemical reactions on the surface. Compounds containing sulfur from the environment, in particular, can play a role in this process. 
 How quickly silver jewelry tarnishes varies greatly. In addition to the environment, factors such as cosmetics, sweat, certain chemicals, or the way it is stored can influence this. 
 Is tarnished silver broken? 
 No. A tarnished surface is primarily a superficial change and not a sign that the piece of jewelry is disintegrating or has lost its fundamental quality. 
 In many cases, the typical silver luster can be restored through proper cleaning or polishing. 
 Scratches and Signs of Wear on Silver Jewelry 
 Silver, or sterling silver, is softer than some other precious metal alloys used in jewelry. Therefore, jewelry worn regularly may develop scratches, small dents, and other signs of wear over time. 
 This is especially true for rings, as they are constantly in contact with other objects and surfaces in everyday life. 
 Such signs of wear are normal at first. A polished surface becomes duller with increased use, while individual shiny spots may develop on a deliberately matte surface. If necessary, a jeweler’s workshop can refinish the surface of a piece of jewelry. 
 Properly Cleaning and Caring for Silver Jewelry 
 Silver jewelry does not require complicated care. However, a few simple steps can help keep the surface looking its best for as long as possible. 
 
  Removing light dirt:  Lukewarm water, a mild soap solution, and a soft cloth are often sufficient. 
  Use a silver polishing cloth:  Light tarnish can be removed from suitable pieces of jewelry using a special silver polishing cloth. 
  Avoid abrasive cleaners:  Highly abrasive cleaning agents can scratch polished surfaces or alter existing surface textures. 
  Minimize contact with chemicals:  Cleaning agents, chlorine, and certain cosmetics and sprays should not come into direct contact with the jewelry whenever possible. 
  Store jewelry separately:  Storing jewelry in a dry place, preferably separately, protects against unnecessary scratches and can reduce tarnishing. 
 
 For jewelry featuring gemstones, pearls, coatings, or special finishes, the cleaning method should always be appropriate for the entire piece. Not every method suitable for solid silver is automatically suitable for all set stones or finishes. 
 Nickel silver is not silver 
 The term  “nickel silver”  often leads to misunderstandings. Despite its name, it is neither silver nor a silver alloy. 
 Nickel silver is a copper-based alloy that may contain nickel and zinc, among other elements. The name refers solely to the material’s silver-like color. 
 If you want to know whether a piece of jewelry is actually made of silver, you should therefore not rely solely on its color. Fineness marks, such as  925 , provide clues. 
 Silver in the Mokume-Gane Technique 
 Silver can play a special role in the  Mokume-Gane technique . In this process, different metals are joined together and then worked in such a way that characteristic patterns reminiscent of wood grain are created. 
 925 sterling silver is well-suited, among other things, as the lighter component in a metal combination. When combined with other precious metals, distinct differences in color and brightness can emerge, which visibly highlight the pattern. 
 The combination of silver and palladium, in particular, demonstrates that two precious metals that appear light at first glance can nevertheless have very different effects within a Mokume-Gane structure. Therefore, design is influenced not only by the metal’s designation but also by its hue, surface appearance, and how it interacts with the other alloys. 
 Is silver suitable for everyday use in rings and jewelry? 
 Silver is generally a well-suited metal for jewelry. However, whether it is the best choice for a specific piece depends on its construction and intended use. 
 For pendants, earrings, and many other pieces of jewelry, the mechanical stress is relatively low. A ring worn daily, on the other hand, must withstand significantly more wear and tear. Here, material thickness, shape, and construction play a particularly important role. 
 Anyone looking for a white precious metal that requires as little maintenance as possible should also keep in mind that silver can tarnish. Depending on your needs and the specific piece of jewelry, white gold, palladium, or platinum may therefore be interesting alternatives. 
 Silver, white gold, palladium, or platinum? 
 Silver, white gold, palladium, and platinum are often considered together because they can all be used to create jewelry that appears light or white in color. However, their properties differ significantly. 
 Silver is comparatively soft and can tarnish. White gold derives its properties from a gold alloy and, depending on the design, may also be rhodium-plated. Palladium and platinum, in turn, have different densities, hardnesses, and workability. 
 Therefore, the best choice of precious metal cannot be determined solely by color. Decisive factors include the desired design, how the piece will be worn, your budget, and personal preferences. 
 Conclusion: Silver is much more than just an affordable alternative 
 Silver is a jewelry metal in its own right with distinctive properties.  925 sterling silver , in particular, has established itself in jewelry manufacturing due to its combination of high silver content, good workability, and classic bright appearance. 
 The fact that silver can tarnish and develop signs of wear is part of its material properties and is not a quality defect. With proper care, the surface can often be easily restored to its original luster. 
 For us as goldsmiths, silver is particularly interesting in applications where its light color, good workability, and contrast with other precious metals can be utilized creatively—from classic silver jewelry to extraordinary material combinations using the Mokume-Gane technique. 
  Originally published on June 2, 2019; comprehensively revised on September 1, 2026.  
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-01T15:36:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Gold price at record level - what this means for our jewelry</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold-price-at-record-level-what-this-means-for-our-jewelry</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold-price-at-record-level-what-this-means-for-our-jewelry"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            The price of gold is higher than ever. We show what this means for handmade jewelry, scrap gold and our work as goldsmiths.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Why the rising gold price has a direct impact on our work as goldsmiths 
 The price of gold has reached a historically high level in a short space of time. For many, this is a topic in the news - for us as goldsmiths, it is a daily reality. Because rising gold prices not only influence the market, but also design, planning and advice on high-quality jewelry. 
 We would like to show you  what the current gold price trend means for our work at Wiesner Schmuck  - and what it means for our customers. 
 Gold: stable in value, coveted and limited 
 Gold has accompanied mankind for thousands of years. Its special material stability, warm color and emotional value make it unique to this day. At the same time, gold is a finite resource. The amount of gold mined worldwide is limited and the extraction of new deposits is costly. 
 If demand increases - for example in times of economic uncertainty - this has a direct impact on the price. This is exactly what we are currently experiencing: gold is increasingly in demand as an investment, which is driving up the price of the material significantly. 
 What the high price of gold means for our work 
 As goldsmiths, we often plan pieces of jewelry months in advance. A strongly fluctuating gold price makes this planning more challenging. Material costs change, while our quality standards remain the same - or even increase. 
 At Wiesner Jewelry, we respond to this with 
 
 
  thoughtful design  that uses materials efficiently 
 
 
  precise craftsmanship , where every gram counts 
 
 
  honest advice  so that prices remain transparent 
 
 
 Our aim is to create jewelry that lives from  design, quality craftsmanship and personal meaning , not from the materials used. 
 When gold is more expensive than expected 
 Many customers are surprised at how much the price of gold has risen recently - especially in comparison to other precious metals such as platinum. This change in the price ratio is an important topic for us to advise on. 
 We take the time to explain 
 
 
 why prices look different today than they did a few years ago 
 
 
 what design alternatives are available 
 
 
 how budget and desired design can be sensibly harmonized 
 
 
 Because high-quality pieces of jewelry are not created by mass production, but by smart decisions. 
 Old gold: personal, sustainable and more relevant than ever 
 With rising gold prices, interest in old gold is also growing. Many of our customers bring in existing pieces of jewelry or leftover gold and have something new made from it. 
 This has several advantages: 
 
 
 existing material is put to good use 
 
 
 emotional memories are preserved 
 
 
 the material value is optimally utilized 
 
 
 Right now, it is becoming clear how valuable this approach is. Jewelry and    Wedding rings made from old gold    combines sustainability with individuality - and goes perfectly with handmade goldsmithing. 
 Quality remains - regardless of the gold price 
 No one can reliably predict how the price of gold will develop. Whether it stabilizes or declines, we are certain that real jewelry is always more than just a material value. 
 At Wiesner Jewelry, we focus on: 
 
 
 long-lasting design 
 
 
 timeless aesthetics 
 
 
 honest craftsmanship 
 
 
 This results in pieces of jewelry that retain their value - emotionally and materially. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2026-01-28T09:30:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Gold, platinum or palladium - which precious metal suits your piece of jewelry?</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold-platinum-or-palladium-which-precious-metal-suits-your-piece-of-jewelry</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold-platinum-or-palladium-which-precious-metal-suits-your-piece-of-jewelry"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Choosing the right precious metal is one of the most important decisions when making or selecting a piece of jewelry. Gold, platinum and palladium differ not only in price, but also in color...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Gold, platinum or palladium - which precious metal suits your piece of jewelry? 
 Choosing the right precious metal is one of the most important decisions when making or selecting a piece of jewelry. Gold, platinum and palladium differ not only in price, but also in color, weight, suitability for everyday use and craftsmanship. From the jewelry workshop&#039;s point of view, there is no general &quot;best&quot; precious metal - the decisive factor is which material suits your wearing habits and the planned piece of jewelry. 
 Gold - the versatile classic 
 Gold is almost exclusively alloyed in jewelry. This results in different colors such as yellow gold, white gold or rose gold. Gold alloys are very easy to shape and repair, which makes them particularly suitable for many pieces of jewelry. 
 In the workshop, we value gold for its versatility and long tradition. The hardness and therefore suitability for everyday wear varies depending on the fineness. 
 Platinum - durable and particularly resistant 
 Platinum is a very dense and resistant precious metal. It is usually processed with a high fineness (e.g. 950) and is ideal for jewelry that is worn every day. 
 Signs of wear on platinum usually appear as a fine patina, not as a loss of material. From a technical point of view, platinum is more difficult to work with, but offers exceptional longevity. 
 Palladium - a light-colored precious metal from the platinum group 
 Palladium belongs to the platinum group and is often used in jewelry as an alternative to white gold. It has a natural, light color and is lighter than platinum. 
 Whether palladium is the right choice depends heavily on the specific alloy and the desired design. Expert advice is particularly important here. 
 Knowledge from the workshop 
 Gold, platinum and palladium each have their own strengths. The best choice results from the interplay of design, wearability, budget and craftsmanship. 
 In our overview of   precious metals in the jewelry trade  , you will find the most important basics on materials, properties and processing. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-12-11T07:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">What do 585, 750 and 950 mean? Fineness simply explained</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/what-do-585-750-and-950-mean-fineness-simply-explained</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/what-do-585-750-and-950-mean-fineness-simply-explained"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Numbers such as 585, 750 or 950 can be found on many pieces of jewelry. These figures are referred to as fineness and provide information on how much pure precious metal is contained in an alloy...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 What do 585, 750 and 950 mean? Fineness simply explained 
 Numbers such as 585, 750 or 950 can be found on many pieces of jewelry. These figures are referred to as  fineness  and provide information on how much pure precious metal is contained in an alloy. 
 What is a fineness? 
 The fineness describes the proportion of precious metal in thousandths. For example, a fineness of 585 means that 585 out of 1000 parts consist of pure gold. 
 Typical fineness in jewelry 
 
  Gold 585  - 58.5 % gold 
  Gold 750  - 75.0 % gold 
  Platinum 950  - 95.0 % platinum 
  Silver 925  - 92.5 % silver 
 
 Why are precious metals alloyed? 
 Pure precious metals are often too soft for everyday use. By adding other metals, hardness, color and durability are specifically influenced. 
 Workshop tip 
 A higher fineness does not automatically mean a &quot;better&quot; piece of jewelry. The decisive factor is the right alloy for the intended purpose. 
 Further information on   precious metals and alloys   can be found in our central guide. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-12-01T18:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Which precious metal does not tarnish? - Differences &amp; care explained</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/which-precious-metal-does-not-tarnish-differences-care-explained</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/which-precious-metal-does-not-tarnish-differences-care-explained"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            The tarnishing of jewelry is a common concern. This is a natural surface reaction that varies depending on the precious metal...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Which precious metal does not tarnish? 
 Many jewelry wearers sooner or later ask themselves this question:  Which precious metal does not tarnish?  Discoloration, dull surfaces or dark spots are often perceived as a quality defect. In practice, however, these are usually  natural surface reactions  that vary depending on the precious metal. 
 The decisive factor is therefore not only the precious metal itself, but also its  alloy ,  surface treatment ,  wearing habits  and contact with environmental substances. From the perspective of the jewelry workshop, it is easy to explain which metals can tarnish - and which cannot. 
 
 What does &quot;tarnishing&quot; mean in jewelry? 
 Tarnishing is a chemical reaction on the surface of a metal in which compounds form with oxygen or sulphur. This reaction usually only affects the outermost layer and has no influence on the stability or value of the piece of jewelry. 
 Typical triggers for tarnishing are 
 
 Air and humidity 
 Sweat and skin contact 
 Cosmetics, perfume or hairspray 
 Household chemicals 
 certain environmental influences (e.g. sulphur compounds) 
 
 Important: Tarnishing is  not a sign of inferior quality , but a typical property of certain precious metals. 
 
 Silver - why it tarnishes particularly often 
  Silver  is the precious metal most frequently associated with tarnishing.  Sterling silver (925) , which consists of 92.5% silver, is usually used in jewelry production. 
 Silver reacts particularly sensitively to sulphur compounds in the air. This produces silver sulphide, which appears as a dark coating on the surface. This reaction can already occur during normal storage - even if the jewelry is not worn. 
 It is important to know from a workshop perspective: 
 
 Tarnishing is  superficial  
 It can be  easily removed  
 The substance of the piece of jewelry remains completely intact 
 
 With suitable cleaning or professional refurbishment, silver jewelry can be restored to its original condition at any time. 
 
 Gold - very durable, depending on the alloy 
  Gold  is one of the most chemically stable metals. Pure gold (fine gold 999) does not tarnish and does not change its surface. In jewelry, however, gold is almost always  alloyed , as fine gold would be too soft for everyday use. 
 Whether gold tarnishes therefore depends primarily on the  fineness  and the  metals added : 
 
  Gold 750  and  gold 585  are very stable 
 Very low purity (e.g. 333) may show slight changes 
 White gold can react somewhat more sensitively due to alloy components 
 
 In practice, gold jewelry is usually extremely easy to care for. Changes are caused more by  mechanical stress  (scratches, loss of shine) than by chemical tarnishing. 
 
 Platinum - extremely resistant and non-tarnishable 
  Platinum  is one of the most resistant precious metals of all. It does not react with oxygen or sulphur and therefore  does not tarnish . 
 In jewelry, platinum is usually processed with a very high fineness (e.g. 950). The material is dense, heavy and extremely durable. Changes to the surface are only caused by  mechanical action . 
 These are expressed as a so-called  patina : a fine, even surface structure that many wearers even find particularly precious. 
 
 Palladium - a light-colored precious metal with high stability 
  Palladium  belongs to the platinum group and has similar properties to platinum. It is chemically very stable and also  does not tarnish . 
 Palladium is often used in jewelry as an alternative to white gold. The natural, light color is permanently retained without the need for additional surface finishing. 
 Palladium also shows signs of wear exclusively through mechanical stress, not through chemical reactions. 
 
 What role does the surface finish play? 
 Whether changes are visible depends not only on the precious metal, but also on the chosen surface finish: 
 
  Polished surfaces  show scratches more quickly 
  Matt surfaces  appear more even 
  Textured surfaces  conceal signs of wear 
 
 From the workshop&#039;s point of view, the surface can be selected in such a way that it optimally matches the wearing behavior. 
 
 Conclusion from the jewelry workshop 
 The question &quot;Which precious metal does not tarnish?&quot; can be answered clearly: 
 
 Silver can tarnish - but is easy to clean 
 Gold is very stable, depending on the fineness and alloy 
 Platinum and palladium do not tarnish 
 
 The decisive factor is always the interplay of material, alloy, surface and everyday use. Expert advice will help you choose the right precious metal for long-term enjoyment of your jewelry. 
 We have summarized basic information on   precious metals in everyday life   for you in our central guide from the perspective of the jewelry workshop. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-11-17T01:45:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Gold vs. silver: What your choice of jewelry reveals about your inner self</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold-vs.-silver-what-your-choice-of-jewelry-reveals-about-your-inner-self</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/gold-vs.-silver-what-your-choice-of-jewelry-reveals-about-your-inner-self"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            A fascinating psychological look at why people wear gold or silver: while silver often stands for restraint and learned invisibility, gold symbolizes self-worth, visibility and inner permission. Jewelry as a mirror of the nervous system - instead of just a question of style.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Jewelry is not an accessory - it is a statement of your nervous system 
 Many people believe they choose gold or silver for purely aesthetic reasons. A stylist who has worked with Italian executives for years strongly disagrees:   &quot;Jewelry is never just decoration - it&#039;s a revelation.&quot;  
 What sounds like a fashionable slogan turns out, on closer inspection, to be an astonishingly consistent observation about personality patterns, psychological imprints - and about how visible we want to make ourselves in life. 
 Silver: the metal of invisibility 
 &quot;Gold reflects. Silver absorbs,&quot; explains the stylist.  And this difference is not just physical, but psychological. 
 In an evaluation of 120 clients, a remarkable pattern emerged: 
 
 
  Each  of those who consistently wore silver 
 
 
  grew up in an environment  where standing out led to problems.  For example, due to loud parents, changing criticism or the family rule:   &quot;Don&#039;t make trouble. Don&#039;t stand out.&quot;  
 
 
 The nervous system of these people learned early on:   Invisibility is safety.  
 Silver thus becomes an unconscious protective shield - elegant, stylish, but restrained. A metal that leaves space instead of taking it. 
  &quot;Silver is the metal of self-harmlessness.&quot;  
 A CEO who only wore silver involuntarily put it in a nutshell. Despite a seven-figure income, he said: 
 
  &quot;Gold feels like I have to justify myself.&quot;  
 
 His father, he continues, always mocked expensive things.  Silver became an aesthetic compromise: beauty - without the responsibility of being seen. 
 Gold: the metal of permission 
 It becomes interesting when the stylist observes her clients who changed their jewelry habits after therapeutic work. 
 Many switched from silver to gold - and gave the same explanation almost word for word: 
 
  &quot;I no longer feel guilty when I take up space.&quot;  
 
 Here it becomes clear:   Gold is less a symbol of wealth than one of self-worth . 
 Gold reflects - literally and figuratively.  It doesn&#039;t say:  &quot;Look, I&#039;m rich.&quot;   It says:  &quot;I exist - and I don&#039;t apologize for it.&quot;  
 Those who wear gold allow themselves visibility.  No exaggeration, no ostentation - but presence. 
 Gold and silver as an emotional compass 
 The stylist&#039;s statement sums up the phenomenon perfectly: 
  &quot;Silver is chosen by people who have learned to make themselves small. Gold is chosen by people who have learned to assert themselves.&quot;  
 This does not mean that every silver fan has low self-esteem or that every gold wearer is self-confident. But it does show: 
 
  The choice of metal is often less a question of style - but a message from the nervous system.  
 
 Jewelry not only shows how we want to look.  It shows how we feel inside. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-11-14T11:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Rutenium</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/rutenium</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/rutenium"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Ruthenium is the precious metal for connoisseurs: discreet, resistant and with a unique dark appearance. Find out how it finds its place in modern jewelry design and high-tech applications.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                  Ruthenium - The discreet precious metal with great potential  
  What is ruthenium?   Ruthenium is a rare, silvery-white transition metal from the platinum group of metals. It was discovered in 1844 by the Russian chemist Karl Ernst Claus and is named after Russia (&quot;Ruthenia&quot;). Chemically, it is very resistant to corrosion and has an extremely high melting point of around 2,300 °C. 
  Use in industry   Ruthenium is used in many high-tech applications. These include the hardening of platinum and palladium alloys, the production of electrical contacts and its role as a catalyst in chemistry. Its properties make it a versatile but previously underestimated metal. 
  Ruthenium in jewelry production   Ruthenium is still a niche material in the jewelry sector. It is mainly used as an alloy additive to make white gold or platinum darker, harder and more abrasion-resistant. Ruthenium is particularly popular as a coating for silver or stainless steel, as it gives them an anthracite to black-grey, elegant surface. 
  Design and trends   Pure ruthenium jewelry is extremely rare, as the metal is difficult to work with. In recent years, however, the demand for black or dark jewelry has increased - especially for men&#039;s rings or modern wedding rings. Ruthenium coatings provide a striking look with high wearing comfort. 
  Care and value   Coated ruthenium jewelry is relatively easy to care for and resistant to scratches. Nevertheless, gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is recommended. The material value is comparatively low, which does not make ruthenium a classic investment precious metal - but it does offer long-term potential due to its technical properties. 
     Ruthenium is a precious metal for individualists. If you are interested in dark, modern pieces of jewelry, ruthenium-coated jewelry is a stylish choice with added technical value.   
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-06-04T09:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Osmium</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/osmium</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/osmium"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Osmium - the rarest precious metal in the world - fascinates with its unique crystalline structure and extreme density. Find out why osmium jewelry is not only a visual highlight, but also a promising investment.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Osmium - The most exclusive precious metal in the world 
 The rarest and heaviest precious metal on earth 
  Osmium &amp;nbsp;is considered the densest and rarest precious metal in the world. It belongs to the platinum group of metals and is only found in tiny quantities in the earth&#039;s crust - only around one tonne of osmium is extracted worldwide each year.&amp;nbsp; 
 With its  silvery-blue sheen  and unique  crystalline surface , osmium stands out clearly from gold, silver or platinum. No other metal reflects light in such an intense, almost diamond-like way. 
 From raw material to work of art: crystalline osmium 
 In its original, powdered form, osmium is unstable and harmful to health. It is only through a complex  crystallization process  that it becomes the fascinating material that is used today in luxurious jewelry. 
 Each crystal is naturally unique -  no two structures are the same . This makes every piece of osmium jewelry truly unique. 
 Osmium in the world of jewelry 
  Crystalline osmium  has found its place in the world of high-end jewelry. Whether  rings, pendants, cufflinks or watch dials  - designers and collectors appreciate the unmistakable shine and extreme rarity of the metal. 
 With a price that is  higher than gold and platinum , osmium is considered the  precious metal of superlatives . It symbolizes luxury, exclusivity and individuality - perfect for people who are looking for the extraordinary. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
         
    Stud earrings, ring and pendant made of osmium    worked 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Processing and certification 
 The processing of osmium requires precision and specialist knowledge. The material is brittle and difficult to shape, which is why only a few manufacturers worldwide work with it. 
 Every piece of crystalline osmium is  certified  by the  Osmium Institute  and registered in a global database - an unbeatable advantage in terms of  counterfeit protection  and  proof of value . 
 Sustainability and investment potential 
 In contrast to gold mining,  no toxic residues  are produced during the extraction of osmium - a clear advantage for environmentally conscious luxury lovers. 
 In addition, interest in osmium as a  tangible asset  is growing. Its extreme scarcity and stability make it an exciting alternative for long-term investors. 
 Conclusion: Jewelry for visionaries 
 Osmium is more than just a precious metal - it is a statement. Anyone looking for a  unique piece of jewelry  with lasting value will find the perfect combination of  beauty, rarity and sustainability  in osmium. 
  Osmium jewelry is luxury for the future - and a piece of eternity on the wrist, on the finger or around the neck.  
 &amp;nbsp; 
     
 A pair of    Osmium wedding rings set in white gold    set in white gold. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-05-01T15:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Which is more valuable, platinum or gold?</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/which-is-more-valuable-platinum-or-gold</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/which-is-more-valuable-platinum-or-gold"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Gold or platinum - which is more valuable? Gold shines due to its historical and cultural significance, platinum due to its industrial applications and rarity. The value varies depending on market conditions and individual preferences.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Was ist wertvoller, Gold oder Platin? 
 In der Welt der Edelmetalle haben sowohl    Gold    als auch    Platin    seit Jahrhunderten ihren festen Platz als Symbole für Reichtum und Luxus. Doch wenn es darum geht, zu entscheiden, welches der beiden wertvoller ist, gibt es keine einfache Antwort. Verschiedene Faktoren wie Preis, Seltenheit, industrielle Nutzung und kulturelle Bedeutung spielen eine Rolle bei der Bestimmung des Wertes dieser Metalle. In diesem Blogbeitrag werden wir diese Aspekte genauer betrachten und versuchen, ein klareres Bild davon zu zeichnen, welches Metall in welchem Kontext als wertvoller angesehen werden kann. 
 Historische und kulturelle Bedeutung 
 Gold hat eine tief verwurzelte historische und kulturelle Bedeutung, die bis in die Antike zurückreicht. In vielen Kulturen wurde Gold als Symbol für göttliche Macht und unvergänglichen Reichtum verehrt. Es diente als Währung, Schmuck und sogar als religiöses Symbol. Auch heute noch hat Gold eine bedeutende Rolle in der Finanzwelt, sei es als Anlageform oder als Währungsreserve für Zentralbanken. 
 Platin hingegen wurde erst im 18. Jahrhundert in Südamerika entdeckt und als eigenständiges Edelmetall erkannt. Seine Verwendung und sein Ruf wuchsen im Laufe der Zeit, und heute ist Platin ebenfalls ein Symbol für Luxus und Exklusivität, besonders in der Schmuckindustrie. Platin wird jedoch auch wegen seiner industriellen Anwendungen hoch geschätzt, was ihm einen zusätzlichen Wert verleiht. 
     
 Beispiel für    Ringe aus Gold und Platin   , hier ineinander verschmiedet. 
 Preis und Marktwert 
 Der Marktwert von Gold und Platin schwankt im Laufe der Zeit und wird von verschiedenen wirtschaftlichen und geopolitischen Faktoren beeinflusst. Traditionell war Platin teurer als Gold, da es seltener ist und eine höhere Schmelztemperatur hat, was seine Verarbeitung aufwendiger macht. In den letzten Jahren haben sich die Preise jedoch angenähert, und es gab sogar Phasen, in denen Gold teurer war als Platin. 
 Aktuelle Marktdaten zeigen, dass der Preis für Platin oft stark von der Nachfrage in der Automobilindustrie abhängt, wo es als Katalysatormaterial verwendet wird. Gold hingegen wird hauptsächlich als Anlage und Währungsreserve betrachtet, was es besonders in wirtschaftlich unsicheren Zeiten begehrt macht. Somit kann der Wert von Gold und Platin stark variieren, abhängig von den aktuellen Marktbedingungen und der globalen wirtschaftlichen Lage. 
 Industrielle Anwendungen 
 Ein wesentlicher Unterschied zwischen Gold und Platin liegt in ihren industriellen Anwendungen. Gold wird aufgrund seiner hervorragenden Leitfähigkeit und Korrosionsbeständigkeit in der Elektronikindustrie verwendet, etwa in Verbindungselementen, Schaltern und Leiterplatten. Seine Anwendungen sind jedoch im Vergleich zu Platin begrenzt. 
 Platin hingegen hat umfangreiche industrielle Anwendungen. Es wird in Katalysatoren für Autos verwendet, um schädliche Emissionen zu reduzieren, in der Chemieindustrie als Katalysator für verschiedene Prozesse und in der Medizin für Geräte wie Herzschrittmacher und Krebsmedikamente. Diese breite Palette an Anwendungen trägt dazu bei, dass Platin in vielen Bereichen als unverzichtbar gilt. 
 Seltenheit und Verfügbarkeit 
 Platin ist seltener als Gold. Die jährliche Produktion von Platin beträgt nur einen Bruchteil der Goldproduktion, was es zu einem der seltensten Metalle der Erde macht. Diese Seltenheit trägt erheblich zu seinem Wert bei, besonders in Industrien, die auf seine einzigartigen Eigenschaften angewiesen sind. 
 Gold ist zwar häufiger als Platin, aber immer noch sehr selten. Seine weite Verbreitung und die lange Geschichte als Währungs- und Wertaufbewahrungsmittel machen es jedoch zu einem beständigen und begehrten Gut. 
 Umwelt- und Sozialaspekte 
 Die Gewinnung von Edelmetallen hat erhebliche Umwelt- und Sozialauswirkungen. Der Abbau von Gold und Platin erfordert oft große Mengen an Energie und Wasser und kann zur Verschmutzung von Böden und Gewässern führen. Zudem sind die Arbeitsbedingungen in den Minen oft hart und gefährlich. 
 In jüngster Zeit gibt es jedoch Bemühungen, nachhaltigere und fairere Praktiken in der Edelmetallindustrie zu fördern. Zertifizierungen wie Fairtrade und umweltfreundlichere Abbaumethoden gewinnen an Bedeutung und können den wahren Wert dieser Metalle in einer zunehmend umweltbewussten Welt beeinflussen. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Gold oder Platin – Was bedeutet das für Trauringe? 
 Wenn Sie sich zwischen Gold und Platin für Ihre Trauringe entscheiden möchten, geht es nicht nur um den Materialwert – sondern auch um Alltagstauglichkeit, Symbolik und Stil. Beide Edelmetalle bieten exzellente Eigenschaften, unterscheiden sich aber in wichtigen Punkten: 
 
 
  Kriterium  Gold  Platin  
 
 
 
 Härte &amp;amp; Robustheit 
 Weicher, durch Legierungen anpassbar 
 Sehr hart und langlebig – ideal für den Alltag 
 
 
 Farbe 
 Gelb-, Weiß- oder Roségold möglich 
 Natürlich silberweiß, keine Legierung nötig 
 
 
 Symbolik 
 Wärme, Tradition, Reichtum 
 Seltenheit, Exklusivität, Beständigkeit 
 
 
 Pflege 
 Braucht gelegentliche Nachbearbeitung 
 Sehr pflegeleicht, behält Glanz über Jahre 
 
 
 Preis 
 Je nach Legierung günstiger 
 Etwas teurer, aber sehr langlebig 
 
 
 
  Unser Tipp:  Wenn Ihnen Robustheit, Beständigkeit und ein kühler Farbton wichtig sind, ist  Platin  die erste Wahl. Für warme Farben und ein klassisches Erscheinungsbild sind  Gold-Trauringe  ideal – besonders, wenn persönliche Farbvorlieben eine Rolle spielen. 
 
    Trauringe aus Platin – Zeitlos &amp;amp; exklusiv    
    Gold-Trauringe in verschiedenen Legierungen    
    Platin vs. Gold – Unsere Experten beraten Sie persönlich    
 
 
 ? Kostenloser PDF-Ratgeber 
  „Platin oder Gold? Fünf Fragen zur richtigen Wahl Ihrer Trauringe“   ✔️    Direktvergleich   &amp;nbsp;&amp;lt; Jetzt kostenlos herunterladen  ✔️    Checkliste für die Wahl   &amp;nbsp; &amp;lt; Jetzt kostenlos herunterladen   ✔️    Tipps zu Pflege &amp;amp; Tragekomfort   &amp;nbsp; &amp;lt; Jetzt kostenlos herunterladen  
 
 Schlußfolgerung 
 Die Frage, ob Gold oder Platin wertvoller ist, lässt sich nicht pauschal beantworten. Beide Metalle haben ihre eigenen Stärken und Werte, die in unterschiedlichen Kontexten zur Geltung kommen. Gold hat eine tief verwurzelte kulturelle und historische Bedeutung und wird als sichere Anlage betrachtet. Platin hingegen beeindruckt durch seine Seltenheit und vielfältigen industriellen Anwendungen. 
 Letztlich hängt der Wert von Gold und Platin von individuellen Präferenzen, aktuellen Marktbedingungen und spezifischen Bedürfnissen ab. Für den einen mag Gold aufgrund seiner stabilen Anlagewerte wertvoller sein, während der andere Platin aufgrund seiner industriellen Bedeutung und Seltenheit bevorzugt. Beide Metalle bleiben jedoch zeitlose Symbole für Reichtum und Luxus. 
 Einen umfassenden Überblick über   Wert, Eigenschaften und Verarbeitung von Edelmetallen   erhalten Sie in unserem Ratgeber. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2024-07-22T13:45:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Iridium</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/iridium</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/iridium"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Learn about the fascinating history and importance of iridium, one of the hardest and most corrosion-resistant metals discovered in 1803. Iridium is used in the jewelry industry for particularly hard-wearing pieces of jewelry such as wedding rings. Discover why iridium alloys ...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 The discovery and importance of iridium in the jewelry industry 
 Iridium, one of the rarest and most fascinating metals, was discovered in 1803 by Smithson Tennant in London together with osmium. Both metals were isolated from black residues that remained after the dissolution of raw platinum using aqua regia. The name iridium is derived from the variety of colors of the metal, which is reminiscent of a rainbow (Latin &quot;iris&quot;). 
 Historical background 
 The discovery of iridium marked a significant milestone in chemistry and metallurgy. Tennant was searching for new elemental properties in the residues of raw platinum when he came across iridium. This metal, together with osmium, offered new possibilities in science and technology as both elements had unique physical and chemical properties. 
 Properties of iridium 
 Iridium is known for its exceptional hardness and brittleness, which makes it difficult to process. Nevertheless, these properties are also the reason why iridium is so valuable. It is often alloyed with softer metals to increase their strength and durability. Some of the most notable properties of iridium are: 
 
  Hardness and brittleness:  these properties make iridium ideal for applications where wear resistance is critical. 
  High corrosion resistance : Iridium can withstand many aggressive environments, including high temperatures and chemical attack. 
  Density:  Iridium is one of the densest metals, making it extremely robust. 
 
 Applications of iridium 
 Iridium is used in a variety of industries, including engineering, medicine and the jewelry industry. Each of these applications utilizes the metal&#039;s unique properties in different ways. 
 Mechanical engineering and medicine 
 In the engineering industry, iridium is used for alloys that need to withstand high mechanical loads. It is often used in aerospace engineering and in precision measuring instruments. In medicine, iridium is used in surgical instruments and implants due to its biocompatibility and durability. 
 Jewelry industry 
 In the jewelry industry, iridium is often used in alloys that need to be particularly hard-wearing. Pieces of jewelry that are subject to heavy wear, such as wedding rings or mechanical components, are often made in platinum-iridium alloys. These alloys combine the elegance and corrosion resistance of platinum with the hardness of iridium, resulting in extremely durable and resistant pieces of jewelry. 
 One notable example is the use of iridium in platinum wedding rings. These rings are not only beautiful, but also extremely resistant to scratches and deformation. This makes them ideal for everyday wear and a lasting symbol of love and commitment. 
 Advantages and challenges of using iridium 
 The use of iridium in jewelry manufacturing offers numerous benefits, but also some challenges. The benefits include: 
 
  Durability:  Iridium alloy jewelry is extremely durable and resists wear and scratches. 
  Elegance : The combination of iridium with platinum or other precious metals results in jewelry of exceptional beauty and elegance. 
  Corrosion resistance:  Iridium is resistant to many chemical attacks, which further increases the durability of the jewelry. 
 
 Challenges include: 
 
  Processing difficulties:  Due to its hardness and brittleness, iridium is difficult to work with and requires specialized techniques and equipment. 
  Cost:  Iridium is one of the rarest metals, making it expensive to source and process. 
 
 All in all... 
 Iridium is a fascinating metal whose exceptional properties make it a valuable material in many industries. In the jewelry industry, it enables the production of durable, elegant and resistant pieces of jewelry that can withstand daily wear and tear. Despite its processing challenges, iridium remains a popular choice for high-quality jewelry alloys due to its unique properties and the aesthetic benefits it offers. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2024-06-06T05:45:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Mokume Gane - Technique of the masters</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/mokume-gane-technique-of-the-masters</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/mokume-gane-technique-of-the-masters"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Mokume Gane is a traditional Japanese forging technique dating back to the 17th century, in which different metals are fused in layers to create unique, wood grain-like patterns. This technique is often used in jewelry such as wedding rings. The combination of metals such as w...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Contents: 
 
  What is Mokume Gane?  
  Historical background  
  Who invented it?  
  Mokume Gane worldwide  
  Mokume gane for wedding rings  
  Suitable precious metals  
  Frequently asked questions  
 
 What exactly is mokume gane? 
      
 A beautiful example of mokume gane as a sophisticated pearl clasp. 
 Mokume gane is an artistic forging technique from Japan in which several layers of metal are fused together and worked in such a way that wood-like grains are created. The result: unique patterns that can never be reproduced exactly. This technique is traditionally used to make jewelry, knives and decorative works of art - and is also used in the production of  mokume gane rings . 
 Historical background 
 The roots of mokume gane go back to the 17th century. The technique was originally developed to create ornate decorations for katana sword handles. During the Edo period, Japanese blacksmiths perfected this method and used it to create not only weapons, but also pieces of jewelry that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. 
 &quot;Mokume gane embodies the Japanese aesthetic of beauty in simplicity and imperfection - wabi-sabi in metallic form.&quot; 
 The technique reached its heyday in the 19th century. To this day, it is regarded as an expression of the highest level of precision craftsmanship and artistic sophistication. 
 Who invented this technique in Japan? 
 The exact origin is not clearly documented, but according to tradition, the blacksmith  Denbai Shoami  was one of the first to practice mokume gane in the 17th century. He lived during the Edo period and was known for his innovative spirit. Even though no reliable records exist, his works are still highly valued today and form part of many museum collections. 
 Mokume Gane outside Japan 
 Today, mokume gane is no longer just a Japanese phenomenon. The technique has experienced a renaissance in North America and Europe. Many goldsmiths, designers and artisans have reinterpreted mokume gane. The knowledge is passed on in workshops and at art academies - and finds its place in modern jewelry collections as well as in unusual knife blades or design objects. 
  Tip:  In Germany, Wiesner Schmuck is one of the leading addresses for mokume gane rings with unique design and precision craftsmanship. 
 Mokume Gane for wedding rings 
      
 One of a kind: Mokume Gane rings from the &quot;Tornillo&quot; collection. 
 The forging technique is ideal for the production of wedding rings - not only because of its impressive appearance, but also because of its symbolism. The combination of different metals creates unique patterns - no two rings are the same. Mokume Gane rings are an expression of individuality and solidarity, making them ideal companions for a life together. 
 Precious metals for mokume gane wedding rings 
 Depending on the desired effect, different precious metals can be combined. The choice of metals not only influences the color spectrum, but also the hardness and maintenance requirements of the rings. The most common materials include 
 
  White gold  - bright, elegant and very durable 
  Yellow gold  - classic, warm and timeless 
  Rose gold  - modern, charming and romantic 
  Platinum  - exclusive, robust and very durable 
  Palladium  - rare, bright white and light 
 
  Silver  and  copper  or more exotic alloys such as  shakudo  or  shibuichi  are also used. The layering and forging of these metals creates fascinating color gradients and textures that give each ring an unmistakable radiance. 
 Frequently asked questions about mokume gane 
   How durable are mokume gane wedding rings?   Mokume Gane rings are very durable. The durability depends on the chosen metal mix - metals such as platinum or palladium offer particularly high resistance.   Does the pattern fade over time?   No - the pattern remains intact as it is created by genuine material fusion. The surface can develop a patina over time, which gives the jewelry additional character.   Can Mokume Gane rings be engraved?   Yes, engraving on the inside is no problem and is very popular for wedding rings.   How much do mokume gane rings cost?   Prices vary depending on the material and design. Handmade unique pieces usually start at around €1,000 per ring.  
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            </content>

                            <updated>2023-02-06T12:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Pearls - A fascinating world: Akoya, South Sea, Keshi and freshwater pearls</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/pearls-a-fascinating-world-akoya-south-sea-keshi-and-freshwater-pearls</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/pearls-a-fascinating-world-akoya-south-sea-keshi-and-freshwater-pearls"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            The fascinating world of pearls: discover the different types of cultured pearls such as Akoya, South Sea, Keshi and freshwater pearls. Learn more about their origin, creation and unique characteristics. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and elegance of these precious jew...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 The fascinating world of pearls 
 Introduction 
 Pearls have always been coveted pieces of jewelry that captivate with their natural beauty and elegance. These precious jewels are created in shells and have a fascinating history. In this article, we delve into the world of pearls and discover the different types of cultured pearls, their origins and unique characteristics. 
 Akoya pearls 
  Origin and creation:  
 Akoya pearls are classic cultured pearls that originated around 1900. These pearls are cultivated in saltwater mussels, particularly in the waters of Japan and China. During cultivation, a mother-of-pearl nucleus is implanted into the mussel, whereupon the mussel coats this foreign body with layers of mother-of-pearl. After around 3 to 4 years, a pearl with a nacre thickness of 0.8 to 1.2 mm has formed. 
  Properties and colors:  
 Akoya pearls are characterized by their mostly round shape, which is given by the insertion of mother-of-pearl spheres. They are available in various colors, including cream, gold, green-white and grey. However, the most expensive and sought-after color is white-rosé. Akoya pearls are cultivated in sizes up to 9 mm in diameter, with larger pearls being rare and therefore particularly valuable. 
 South Sea pearls 
  Origin and formation:  
 South Sea pearls are among the most expensive cultured pearls and are grown in the silver-lipped pearl oyster. These oysters are mainly found in the waters of the South Seas, particularly on the north coast of Australia. South Sea pearls are characterized by their impressive size and natural beauty. 
  Characteristics and colors:  
 The color of South Sea pearls varies from silver-gray to rose and gold to gray and black. These pearls are often cultivated in sizes over 10 mm, which makes them particularly rare and valuable. Due to their size and value, they are often processed as single pearls. 
 Keshi pearls 
  Origin and creation:  
 Keshi pearls are seedless saltwater cultured pearls that originate in Japanese waters as well as in the South Seas. These pearls are an accidental product of nature, as they are formed when implanted mother-of-pearl nuclei are shed by the mussel. The remaining particles are then encased in the shell&#039;s mantle. 
  Properties and colors:  
 Keshi pearls are characterized by their irregular, often bizarre shapes. They come in delicate natural colors such as grey, white, rose and gold. Each Keshi pearl is unique and has an individual shape, which makes them particularly attractive pieces of jewelry. 
 Freshwater pearls 
  Origin and creation:  
 Freshwater pearls are cultivated in freshwater mussels, particularly in China. They are cultivated in the Biwa pearl mussel, a relative of the well-known Biwa pearl from Japan. Due to environmental pollution, cultivation in Lake Biwa has no longer been possible since the 1980s, which is why most freshwater pearls now come from China. 
  Properties and colors:  
 Freshwater pearls are available in a variety of shapes and colors. They come in delicate natural colors such as white-rose, salmon-orange, golden-brown and grey. In addition to the seedless freshwater pearls, there are also those with a core, which are cultivated in sizes over 8 mm. 
     
 A wonderful example of a    Freshwater pearls    Necklace with a jewelry clasp. 
 All in all... 
 Pearls fascinate with their natural beauty and diversity. Whether Akoya, South Sea, Keshi or freshwater pearls - each type has its own unique characteristics and stories. Pearls are not only valuable pieces of jewelry, but also an expression of elegance and timeless beauty. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2022-06-14T10:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
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