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    <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>2026-11-10T02:13:35+01:00</updated>
    
        <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[
                
                                            Gold or silver? The decision is more personal than a simple question of material might suggest. Color, how it looks on the skin, style, and wearing habits play just as much of a role as the properties of the precious metals. A comparison from the goldsmiths&#039; perspective.
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                  First published on November 14, 2025 · comprehensively revised and fact-checked on September 22, 2026  · Preview image: AI-generated illustration   
 Gold or Silver—More Than Just a Matter of Taste 
 Gold or silver? Some people answer this question without a second thought. Others switch between the two metal colors depending on the piece of jewelry, their outfit, or the occasion. 
 There is no hard-and-fast rule about which people should wear gold and which should wear silver. Nor can a person’s personality or psychological makeup be reliably deduced from their preference for a particular metal color. 
 Nevertheless, the decision is an interesting one. After all, gold and silver look different, feel different, and—as materials for jewelry—have their own unique properties. 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, it’s therefore worth asking not only,  “What do I like?  ” but also:  “Which color looks right on me, how do I want to wear the jewelry, and which material properties are important to me?”  
 Gold has a warm appearance—silver has a cool appearance 
 The most obvious difference is the color. 
 Classic yellow gold has a warm yellow hue. Silver, on the other hand, appears light, whitish, and significantly cooler. For this reason alone, the same jewelry design can look completely different when made from these two materials. 
 A yellow gold ring can appear warm, classic, and striking. The same design in silver often appears more understated and cooler. 
 However, this is not a value judgment. Which effect you prefer is a matter of personal taste. 
 Furthermore, gold is by no means limited to yellow gold. Different alloys result in, among others, red gold, rose gold, and white gold. We explain more about this in our guide to  gold and fine gold in jewelry making . 
 Gold or Silver to Match Your Skin Tone? 
 You often read the recommendation that warm skin tones should wear gold and cool skin tones should wear silver. This can certainly be a useful guideline—but it’s not a hard-and-fast rule. 
 Jewelry doesn’t stand alone. Hair color, clothing, glasses, other pieces of jewelry, and—above all—the size and design of the piece influence the overall impression. 
 A small yellow gold ring can appear much more understated than a large silver ring. A matte piece of jewelry looks different from one with a high-gloss polished surface. 
 If you’re unsure, you shouldn’t try to determine your skin type based on a chart. Trying on gold and silver jewelry side by side is usually much more revealing. 
 What exactly is the difference in terms of material properties? 
 Gold and silver are distinct chemical elements and both belong to the group of precious metals. In jewelry making, however, they are usually not processed in their pure form but rather as alloys. 
 For gold, for example, 585 and 750 are common finenesses. 750 gold contains 75 percent fine gold, while 585 gold contains 58.5 percent. 
 For silver jewelry, 925 sterling silver is widely used. It contains 92.5 percent silver and other alloying elements, often copper. 
 We explain in more detail why jewelry metals are alloyed in the first place and what numbers like 585, 750, 925, or 950 mean in our guide   “Fineness in Jewelry: Simply Explained .”  
 Silver Can Tarnish—Gold Behaves Differently 
 An important practical difference becomes apparent when wearing the jewelry. 
 Silver can react with sulfur-containing compounds in its environment. This causes a dark layer to form on the surface. This so-called tarnishing is not a quality defect and does not mean that the piece of jewelry is damaged. 
 The surface can be cleaned and restored. 
 Gold is chemically much more stable. However, when it comes to jewelry alloys, its behavior also depends on the other metals it contains and on the fineness. 
 You can find more information about silver, sterling silver, and proper care in our   guide to silver as a jewelry metal .  
 Is gold of higher quality than silver? 
 Gold generally has a significantly higher material value than silver. However, this does not automatically mean that every piece of gold jewelry is of higher craftsmanship than one made of silver. 
 Material value and craftsmanship are two different things. 
 A carefully designed and superbly crafted silver ring can be of higher quality than an industrially produced piece of gold jewelry. 
 When evaluating a piece of jewelry, factors such as the alloy, construction, workmanship, finish, gemstones, and craftsmanship—in addition to the precious metal itself—all play a role. 
 Why, then, do so many people still choose gold or silver without hesitation? 
 Jewelry is a very personal matter. Habits and preferences develop over the years. 
 Some people have worn almost exclusively silver since their youth and find yellow gold itself unfamiliar. Others feel more comfortable with warm gold and would hardly ever choose a light-colored silver ring. 
 Cultural and fashion influences also play a role. Depending on the design, gold can appear classic, luxurious, modern, or very minimalist. Silver can appear sporty, understated, elegant, or extravagant. 
 That’s why it would be too simplistic to attribute a specific personality to a metal’s color. The design of a piece of jewelry often says just as much about its effect as the metal used. 
 Can you wear gold and silver together? 
 Of course. The old notion that gold and silver tones shouldn’t be combined is primarily a stylistic convention. 
 In fact, the contrast between warm and cool metal colors can be particularly interesting from a design perspective. 
 In our workshop, we even take it a step further: With Mokume Gane, we permanently fuse precious metals of different colors together. Gold, silver, and palladium can form a layered material whose varying metal colors reveal the characteristic grain pattern. 
 In the Mokume Gane ring   “Andira  ,” for example, warm 750 yellow gold, palladium, and a light band of 925 silver come together directly. 
 So gold and silver don’t have to be an either/or choice 
 Multicolored jewelry, in particular, demonstrates that these two worlds of metal can complement each other perfectly. 
 In Mokume Gane, we deliberately make use of this color contrast. The different precious metals are fused together and then forged and patterned. This results in lines that are not painted on or applied afterward—rather, the colors are inherent to the material itself. 
 You’ll find more examples in our   Mokume Gane ring   collection  .  
 Gold or silver for a ring? 
 The decision here shouldn’t be based solely on color. 
 For a ring worn daily, material thickness, alloy, ring profile, surface finish, and the type of wear and tear are important. Silver and gold have different material properties and behave differently when worn and during subsequent maintenance. 
 The material’s value also plays a role. For a solid ring, the difference between silver and a high-quality gold alloy can be significant. 
 For a piece of jewelry intended to be worn for many years, we would therefore always consider the entire piece and not simply say: “Gold is better” or “Silver is better.” 
 Which suits me better—gold or silver? 
 There’s no simple answer. Here are some questions to help you decide: 
 
 Do I feel more comfortable with warm or cool metal tones? 
 What jewelry colors do I already wear regularly? 
 Should the piece stand out, or should it blend in with my existing jewelry? 
 How important are material quality and fineness to me? 
 How often and under what circumstances do I want to wear the piece? 
 Would I perhaps like to deliberately combine several metal colors? 
 
 Especially when it comes to a ring, one very simple approach works best: look at it, try it on, and compare the materials directly with one another. 
 Our conclusion from the goldsmith’s workshop 
 Whether someone prefers gold or silver reveals no hidden psychological truth. Jewelry is far too personal for that. 
 However, the choice can certainly reveal something about the colors, shapes, and materials a person enjoys wearing. And that is precisely where one of the main appeals of jewelry lies: it allows for personal expression without having to fit into a fixed category. 
 Gold offers a wide variety of alloys and colors and has high material value. Silver stands out for its bright color, its long tradition as a jewelry metal, and its unique design possibilities. 
 And if you don’t want to choose between the two, you don’t have to. It’s precisely the combination of different precious metals that can make a piece of jewelry particularly exciting. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-22T08:15:00+02:00</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">
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                                            Gold, platinum, or palladium? These three precious metals differ significantly in color, weight, alloy, and craftsmanship. We compare their properties from a goldsmith’s perspective and show which material is best suited for which piece of jewelry.
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                  First published on December 11, 2025 · Comprehensively revised and updated on September 21, 2026  · Preview image: AI-generated illustration   
 Gold, Platinum, or Palladium—Three Precious Metals with Very Different Characteristics 
 Gold, platinum, and palladium are among the most important precious metals used in high-quality jewelry. At first glance, they differ primarily in color and price. From a goldsmith’s perspective, however, the key differences run deeper: density, fineness, alloy, hardness, malleability, and workability all influence how a piece of jewelry can be crafted, worn, and later modified. 
 That’s why there isn’t just one “best” precious metal. What matters most is which material suits the piece of jewelry, the desired look, and how comfortable it feels to wear. 
 A Direct Comparison of Gold, Platinum, and Palladium 
 
 
 
  Property  
  Gold  
  Platinum  
  Palladium  
 
 
  Typical Jewelry Alloys  
 585 / 750 
 usually 950 
 e.g., 500 / 950 
 
 
  Color  
 Depending on the alloy: yellow, reddish, or naturally light 
 naturally light gray-white 
 naturally light gray-white 
 
 
  Density  
 relatively high, depending on the alloy 
 very high 
 significantly lower than platinum 
 
 
  Comfort  
 Classic, depending on the alloy and ring shape 
 Noticeably heavy and solid 
 relatively light 
 
 
  Special feature  
 Wide variety of colors and alloys 
 High fineness and high density 
 Light-colored platinum with low weight 
 
 
 
 These values are intentionally not ranked. Even within a single metal group, different alloys can have significantly different properties. Therefore, fineness alone does not determine which material is best suited for a particular piece of jewelry. 
 Gold—the Most Versatile Classic 
 Gold has a special advantage: by alloying it with other metals, its color and technical properties can be adjusted across a wide range. For jewelry, 585 and 750 gold are primarily used. 
 Yellow gold retains the classic warm character of gold. Red and rose gold derive their reddish color from a higher copper content. White gold, on the other hand, is created by alloying elements that lighten gold’s natural yellow hue. 
 We explain more about fineness and gold alloys in our guide,   “Gold and Fine Gold in Jewelry Making  .” 
 For us in the workshop, gold is particularly interesting because of its versatility. Depending on the alloy, it can be easily forged, rolled, shaped, soldered, and reworked later on. This is important for pieces of jewelry that are meant to be worn for many years and may need to be repaired or altered. 
 585 or 750 gold—which is better? 
 585 gold contains 58.5 percent fine gold, while 750 gold contains 75 percent. However, this does not automatically mean that 750 gold is the better choice for every piece of jewelry. 
 The remaining alloy components influence color, hardness, and workability. Therefore, even two alloys with the same fineness can behave differently. 
 We explain the numbers on jewelry in detail in our guide   “What Do 585, 750, and 950 Mean?  ” 
 Platinum—dense, naturally light in color, and exceptionally durable 
 Platinum is a precious metal in its own right and not a gold alloy. Platinum 950—an alloy containing 95 percent platinum—is frequently used for high-quality jewelry. 
 Its naturally light, gray-white color is a key difference from white gold. Platinum does not require rhodium plating to appear bright. 
 Its high density is particularly striking. An otherwise comparable ring made of platinum feels significantly heavier than one made of palladium. Many people find this weight to be a pleasant indication of quality; others deliberately prefer a lighter ring. 
 Platinum is corrosion-resistant and is very well suited for jewelry worn on a daily basis. However, it is by no means scratch-proof. Like any jewelry metal, platinum develops signs of wear from daily use and, over time, a characteristic patina. 
 We cover this material in more detail in our   guide to platinum  . 
 Palladium – naturally light in color and significantly lighter than platinum 
 Like platinum, palladium belongs to the platinum group of metals. It also has a naturally light color but a significantly lower density. 
 You can tell this immediately when looking at the finished piece of jewelry. A solid palladium ring can feel significantly lighter than a comparable platinum ring. 
 When evaluating palladium, the specific alloy is particularly important. Palladium 500 and Palladium 950 are not simply the same material with different precious metal contents. Composition and processing influence the properties of the finished piece of jewelry. 
 In our workshop, palladium also plays an important role in Mokume Gane. For example, we use 500 palladium together with silver and gold because this allows us to create striking color contrasts within the forged grain pattern. 
 For more information, see our   guide to palladium  . 
 Gold, platinum, or palladium—which metal is the hardest? 
 When it comes to jewelry, this seemingly simple question cannot be meaningfully answered by naming a single metal. 
 Pure metals and jewelry alloys have different properties. Additionally, cold working during rolling or forging alters a material’s strength. The specific alloy composition also plays a decisive role. 
 Therefore, when it comes to a ring’s suitability for everyday wear, a single hardness value isn’t the only important factor. The design, material thickness, ring profile, and surface finish all play a role in determining how the piece of jewelry will hold up over many years. 
 Which precious metal gets the fewest scratches? 
 None of these three precious metals remains permanently free of wear marks when worn daily. A wedding ring comes into contact with doorknobs, tools, countertops, and countless other objects. 
 Polished surfaces usually show fine scratches sooner than matte or textured surfaces. Platinum often develops a characteristic patina over time. Gold and palladium alloys also develop visible signs of wear. 
 So the better question isn’t, “Which metal doesn’t scratch?” but rather, “What do I want my ring to look like after a few years of wear?” 
 Gold, Platinum, or Palladium for Wedding Rings? 
 When it comes to wedding rings, the material plays a particularly important role because the rings are typically worn every day for decades. 
  Gold  is particularly appealing if you’re looking for a warm color, various shades of gold, or a classic jewelry alloy. 
  Platinum  is a good choice for people who prefer a naturally light-colored ring with a high purity and a noticeably substantial feel when worn. 
  Palladium  is a good choice if you want a naturally light-colored platinum-like metal, but the ring should be significantly lighter. 
 The specific design remains the decisive factor. Width, height, profile, and finish can influence the feel of the ring at least as much as the choice of metal. 
 You’ll find an overview of different materials and manufacturing methods in our   selection of wedding rings  . 
 And which metal is best suited for diamonds? 
 Gold, platinum, and palladium can generally be combined with diamonds. When choosing the material, the design, setting, and construction of the piece play a greater role than a blanket ranking of precious metals. 
 Light-colored metals are often combined with colorless diamonds because the setting and the stone create a harmonious visual unity. Warm yellow gold, on the other hand, can be used to create a deliberate, striking contrast to the diamond. 
 When it comes to an engagement ring or a ring with larger stones, we therefore always consider the jewelry as a whole and not just the name of the precious metal. 
 What Makes the Three Metals in Mokume Gane Particularly Interesting 
 With Mokume Gane, the choice of materials goes one step further. Here, different precious metals are selected not only for their technical properties but also for the color effect they create within the grain pattern. 
 A good example is our   Seraya   model,   crafted from platinum and yellow gold  . The cool platinum and the warm yellow gold create a distinct two-tone contrast. 
 In various Mokume Gane rings, we combine palladium with silver and gold, among other metals. The different metal colors are what make the structure created by forging clearly visible in the first place. 
 Our   Mokume Gane rings   therefore illustrate particularly well just how much the choice of precious metals determines the final appearance of a ring. 
 So which precious metal is the right one? 
 Here’s a simple guide to help you decide: 
 
  Do you prefer a classic gold color or a variety of shades?  Then gold is the obvious choice. 
  Do you want a naturally light-colored and noticeably heavy ring?  Then it’s worth taking a closer look at platinum. 
  Do you want a naturally light-colored precious metal but prefer something lighter in weight?  Then palladium might be worth considering. 
  Do you want to combine different metal colors?  Then multicolored designs or Mokume Gane open up additional possibilities. 
 
 When it comes to a piece of jewelry meant to be worn every day, however, we would never base the decision solely on a chart. A wide platinum ring feels completely different from a narrow gold ring; the profile, material thickness, and finish further alter this impression. 
 Conclusion from our goldsmiths 
 Gold, platinum, and palladium are not tiers of quality where one metal is fundamentally superior to another. They are different materials, each with its own strengths. 
 Gold offers the greatest variety of colors and enormous creative possibilities. Platinum combines a naturally light color with high density and high fineness. Palladium is also one of the naturally light-colored platinum group metals, but feels much lighter due to its lower density. 
 Ultimately, what makes a piece of jewelry great is the interplay of material, alloy, construction, design, and how it’s worn. That’s precisely why we don’t choose a precious metal based on its name, but rather on what we want the specific piece of jewelry to be. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-21T09:15:00+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">
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                                            Gold is more expensive than it has been in a long time. But what does a high gold price actually mean for jewelry, wedding rings, and old gold you already own? We’ll explain where the gold price comes into play—and why, when it comes to handmade jewelry, there’s much more to i...
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                  First published on January 28, 2026 · Comprehensively revised and fact-checked on September 19, 2026  · Featured image: AI-generated illustration   
 What a High Gold Price Really Means for Jewelry 
 The price of gold has reached exceptionally high levels in recent years and has at times set new records. For investors, this is news from the financial markets. For us as goldsmiths, however, the price of gold is directly linked to the material we use every day. 
 This is because, in a piece of jewelry, gold is not just a color and a design element, but also has real material value. When the price of gold rises, so do the material costs for gold jewelry and wedding rings. 
 However, the equation isn’t quite as simple as “the price of gold rises—jewelry becomes just as much more expensive.” The price of a handcrafted piece of jewelry consists of much more than just the market value of the gold it contains. 
 The price of gold is not the price of a piece of jewelry 
 On international markets, the price of fine gold is traded. It is usually quoted per troy ounce—one troy ounce is equivalent to approximately 31.1 grams. 
 Jewelry, on the other hand, is rarely made from pure fine gold. In our goldsmith’s workshop, we primarily use gold alloys, such as 585 or 750 gold. 
 
  585 gold  contains 58.5 percent fine gold. 
  750 gold  contains 75 percent fine gold. 
  999 or 999.9 gold  is nearly pure fine gold. 
 
 The remaining portion of a jewelry alloy consists of other metals. Depending on the composition, this results in, for example, yellow gold, rose gold, or light-colored gold alloys. At the same time, hardness, workability, and other technical properties change. 
 If you’d like to know more about the differences between fine gold and the various gold alloys, check out our detailed guide on   gold and fine gold in jewelry making  . 
 How much does the price of gold affect the price of jewelry? 
 That depends primarily on how much gold is in a piece of jewelry. 
 For a solid, heavy gold ring, the material cost naturally accounts for a larger portion of the total price than for a very delicate piece of jewelry. For elaborate custom-made pieces, however, many other factors come into play: 
 
 design and customization, 
 labor time in the goldsmith’s workshop, 
 alloy and material preparation, 
 forging, rolling, soldering, and other production steps, 
 surface finishing and polishing, 
 Diamonds and other gemstones, 
 Setting and engraving. 
 
 That’s why, when purchasing a handmade piece of jewelry, you’re never simply paying for a certain number of grams of gold. 
 Gold has a measurable material value. The value of the finished piece of jewelry is further enhanced by its design, craftsmanship, and—especially in the case of custom-made jewelry—its personal significance. 
 Why does the price of gold fluctuate in the first place? 
 The price of gold is determined on international markets and is influenced by numerous factors. These include, among other things, supply and demand, interest rate and currency trends, purchases and sales by major market participants, as well as economic and geopolitical uncertainties. 
 That is why the price of gold can change significantly within a relatively short period of time. 
 However, predicting whether the price of gold will be higher or lower tomorrow, in a year, or in ten years is not part of our work. We are goldsmiths, not investment advisors. 
 For our workshop, what matters most is what the precious metal actually costs at the time we purchase the material. 
 What does a high gold price mean for a goldsmith’s work? 
 Gold is one of our most important materials. Consequently, we notice price changes immediately when purchasing materials. 
 However, this does not mean that when the price of gold is high, we suddenly start producing thinner or lower-quality jewelry. The material thickness, construction, and alloy must still be appropriate for the specific piece of jewelry and the demands it will face. 
 This is especially important for wedding rings. They are worn every day and are meant to last for many years. A ring must therefore not be designed solely to contain as few grams of gold as possible. 
 It makes more sense to create a design in which the material, dimensions, comfort, and craftsmanship all work together. 
 585 or 750 gold—does the price of gold make a difference? 
 Yes. At 75 percent, 750 gold has a higher fine gold content than 585 gold, which has 58.5 percent. For the same weight, a piece of jewelry made of 750 gold therefore contains more fine gold. 
 However, the material value isn’t the only difference between gold alloys. Color, hardness, and finish can also vary. That’s why the choice of an alloy shouldn’t be based solely on the current price of gold. 
 Especially for jewelry intended to be worn for many years or even a lifetime, it is crucial to choose an alloy that is technically and aesthetically suited to the specific piece. 
 We demonstrate just how different gold can look depending on the alloy, for example, in our guide to   yellow gold and its properties  . 
 A high gold price makes old gold particularly attractive 
 The higher the price of gold, the more significant the material value of jewelry that may have been lying unworn in a drawer for years. 
 Old rings, necklaces, bracelets, coins, or damaged gold jewelry can contain significant amounts of precious metal. There are generally several options available. 
 Old gold can be returned to the precious metal cycle, and its material value can be credited. We explain in more detail how gold is transformed back into a defined jewelry material in our article on   recycled gold in goldsmithing  . 
 But there’s also a second option: existing jewelry can be transformed into new pieces or wedding rings. 
 Family heirlooms are worth more than just their gold value 
 Existing gold becomes particularly interesting when it is tied to personal memories. 
 Grandparents’ old wedding rings, a ring that belonged to one’s mother, or jewelry from both sides of the family often possess, in addition to their material value, an emotional value that no current gold price can express. 
 Such family gold doesn’t necessarily have to be sold or simply traded in as scrap gold. Depending on the existing alloy and the desired new piece of jewelry, we can test, refine, supplement, or re-alloy the material and use it to craft new jewelry or wedding rings. 
 We detail these options on our page   “Wedding Rings Made from Family Gold or Scrap Gold  .” 
 Especially when gold prices are high, an interesting distinction becomes apparent: With ordinary scrap gold, the material value may be the primary consideration. With family heirloom gold, however, there is a story attached that cannot be calculated in euros per gram. 
 Can you save money on new jewelry by using your own old gold? 
 Existing gold naturally has a material value and can therefore play an economic role in the creation of new jewelry. 
 However, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how significant this savings potential actually is. Key factors include the weight, fineness, and composition of the existing material, as well as how it can be used in the new piece of jewelry. 
 For example, an old 333 gold ring is not simply the same amount of 750 gold. Different alloys contain different proportions of fine gold. In addition, solders, coatings, or other components may be present that must be taken into account during further processing. 
 That’s why we first examine the existing material before determining the most appropriate use for it. 
 Should you sell your gold jewelry or have it remade? 
 This isn’t just a question of the price of gold. 
 For jewelry with no personal significance, selling it or returning it to the precious metal cycle may make sense. For pieces with family history, however, you should consider whether you really want to part with them permanently. 
 Once a ring from your grandparents is sold, it’s gone. If, on the other hand, its material is reworked into a new piece of jewelry, part of its history can be preserved. 
 That is precisely why, in our goldsmith’s workshop, we do not view old gold solely as a raw material. Sometimes the material value is what matters—sometimes it’s the memories. 
 Does gold jewelry still make sense when gold prices are high? 
 Anyone who judges jewelry solely by the market value of the precious metal it contains is considering only part of its value. 
 A wedding ring isn’t bought with the expectation of selling it for a profit a few years later. It’s worn. The same applies to a custom-made ring, a keepsake, or a piece of jewelry for a special occasion. 
 Today’s high gold price makes the material content more visible and valuable. Nevertheless, the decision to purchase high-quality jewelry should depend first and foremost on whether the design, material, craftsmanship, and personal significance are right. 
 What happens if the price of gold falls again? 
 Gold prices fluctuate. No one can reliably predict how the price will develop in the long term. 
 If the price of gold falls, this can affect the material costs of new pieces of jewelry. However, the amount of craftsmanship required for a custom-made piece does not change as a result. 
 A ring still requires a design, labor time, tools, experience, surface finishing, and, if necessary, setting or engraving work. 
 That is why the price of a handcrafted piece of jewelry does not fluctuate in direct proportion to the price of gold. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 A high gold price changes the framework conditions for gold jewelry—but not the essence of a fine piece of jewelry. 
 Gold is a valuable material, and when prices are high, its share of the total price carries greater weight. Nevertheless, a custom-made piece of jewelry consists of far more than its pure metal value. 
 For us, therefore, three things are crucial: an alloy suited to the piece, a construction that makes sense from a craftsmanship perspective, and a design that will bring joy for years to come. 
 And if you already own gold, you should take a closer look—especially when gold prices are high. Old jewelry can have considerable material value—and family heirlooms sometimes hold even greater personal value. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-19T11:13:00+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 combines precious metals of different colors to create a unique layered material. We’ll show you how the material is made, how its characteristic grain pattern is forged, and why this technique is particularly well-suited for custom, seamless wedding rings.
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                  First published on February 6, 2023 · comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 18, 2026 · Preview image: AI-generated illustration  
 What is Mokume Gane? 
 Mokume Gane is a traditional Japanese metalworking technique in which metals of different colors are permanently fused into a multilayered composite and then worked in such a way that the individual layers become visible as a pattern. The resulting lines often resemble wood grain—hence the name: Mokume Gane can be roughly translated as “wood grain in metal.” 
 What makes it special is that the pattern is not engraved, printed, or coated onto the surface.  It is inherent in the material itself.  Any deformation of the multilayered metal block also alters the arrangement of its layers. That is why a grain pattern, once created, can never be replicated exactly. 
 It is precisely this combination of metallurgy, metalworking, and a pattern that cannot be fully predicted that makes Mokume Gane so fascinating to us as goldsmiths. 
       
  A Mokume Gane pearl clasp demonstrates that this technique is not limited to rings. In jewelry as well, the pattern is determined by the multilayered precious metal composite.  
 Where does Mokume Gane come from? 
 The technique originated in Japan during the Edo period. The metalworker  Denbei Shōami  is considered an important early pioneer, having worked with multilayered metal composites in the 17th century. 
 Originally, the focus was not on jewelry as we understand it today. Multi-layered metals were used for decorative components of Japanese swords and other artisanal metalwork. The different metal colors allowed for patterns and surfaces that could not be created with a single homogeneous metal. 
 As Japanese society changed, traditional sword-making also lost its significance. However, the technique did not disappear. Later, Mokume Gane was taken up and further developed by artisans and jewelry designers. 
 Today, Mokume Gane is used worldwide—especially for jewelry and unique rings. 
 How is Mokume Gane made? 
 The crucial starting point is a stack of different metal sheets. The metals chosen for combination determine not only the color but also the properties of the entire material. 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, we produce the Mokume Gane material ourselves. The prepared precious metal layers are cleaned, precisely stacked on top of one another, and then permanently bonded together under controlled conditions through  diffusion welding . 
 This process does not simply involve soldering the metal stack together. Under temperature and pressure, a solid metallic bond forms at the interfaces between the metals. 
 The many individual sheets are then transformed into a compact, multilayered Mokume-Gane block. 
 From the layered block to the pattern 
 However, the typical grain pattern is not yet present. Initially, the individual metal layers run largely parallel to one another. 
 It is only through the subsequent forging, rolling, and targeted shaping that these layers are displaced. Depending on the desired pattern, the composite is processed in different ways. Material is then removed or further rolled out and forged. This causes the differently colored layers to emerge on the surface. 
 This creates waves, lines, swirls, or structures reminiscent of natural wood grain. 
  So, we do not “fold” mokume gane.  The patterns emerge from a previously welded, multi-layered metal composite, whose layers are specifically deformed and made visible through further processing. 
 Why does every Mokume Gane ring look different? 
 Even when two rings are crafted from the same block of material, their patterns develop differently. Even small variations in the forging, rolling, and final shaping processes alter the flow of the individual metal layers. 
 For us, however, this does not mean that the result is left entirely to chance. The character of the pattern, the combination of materials, the ring width, and the surface finish can all be specifically designed. The fine details of the grain, however, develop during the artisanal crafting process. 
 That is why genuine Mokume-Gane rings are  unique in the truest sense : a pattern’s character can be replicated, but not exactly copied. 
 Which precious metals are suitable for Mokume Gane? 
 Not every theoretically possible metal combination is suitable for a ring worn daily. The metals involved differ in terms of hardness, malleability, melting behavior, and color, among other factors. They must therefore be compatible not only visually but also metallurgically. 
 In our workshop, we use combinations of   yellow gold  ,   palladium  ,   silver  , and—depending on the model—rose gold for many of our Mokume-Gane rings. Special combinations, such as those with platinum, are also possible. 
 A good example is our   Tornillo   model. Here, we combine 750 yellow gold, 500 palladium, and 925 silver into a multi-layered composite. An additional line of rose gold adds a warm color accent. 
 So the key is not to combine as many different metals as possible. What matters is that the material, pattern, and the future wear and tear on the piece of jewelry all work well together. 
 Mokume Gane for Wedding Rings 
 Mokume Gane holds a special appeal for wedding rings. Two rings can be forged from the same block of material, thereby sharing the same material and color palette. Nevertheless, each ring develops its own unique grain pattern. 
  They belong together without being identical.  
 Especially for wedding rings, this combination of shared qualities and individuality is a beautiful symbol. With our rings, there’s an additional concept: We craft our Mokume Gane wedding rings  seamlessly . 
 Forged SEAMLESSLY—without a joint 
 A classic ring can be bent from a strip of metal, the ends of which are then soldered or welded together. This creates a seam. 
 With our Mokume-Gane rings, we take a different approach. The ring is shaped and forged from the material in such a way that  no seam runs through the Mokume-Gane pattern . 
 This allows the pattern to continue uninterrupted all the way around the ring. This makes a significant visual difference, especially with a vibrant grain pattern. 
 For a wedding band, we also appreciate the symbolism: a closed ring with no beginning and no end has always stood for connection and permanence. The seamless craftsmanship consistently carries this idea forward in the making of the ring. 
 We showcase more about this process on our page dedicated to   our goldsmiths’ SEAMLESS technique  . 
       
  Tornillo: The dynamic pattern emerges directly within the multi-layered precious metal composite and wraps around the rings without any visible seams.  
 Mokume Gane is more than just a surface 
 In photos, it’s easy to get the impression that the visible lines are merely a surface design. In fact, the differently colored metal layers extend throughout the material. 
 Normal signs of wear or a subsequent restoration therefore do not simply make the characteristic structure disappear. However, any ring worn daily changes over time: matte surfaces become smoother, polished surfaces show signs of wear, and edges may appear softer after many years. 
 A Mokume-Gane ring can be refinished in our workshop. In doing so, we take into account the ring’s specific material composition and pattern. 
 Can Mokume-Gane rings be combined with diamonds? 
 Yes. Diamonds can create a deliberate contrast to the vibrant metal grain. In our view, it’s important that the stones complement the Mokume-Gane pattern rather than simply covering it up. 
 Depending on the ring design, individual diamonds, small clusters of stones, or settings along a pattern line are possible. In particular, a channel setting that follows the natural flow of the grain can further emphasize the ring’s unique pattern. 
 You’ll find examples of different patterns, material combinations, and diamond options among our   Mokume Gane rings and wedding bands  . 
 Mokume Gane is not only suitable for wedding bands 
 The technique can also be used for other pieces of jewelry. The key is always to ensure that the shape and construction leave enough space for the characteristic metal pattern. 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, we therefore use Mokume Gane for rings, pendants, earrings, and special interchangeable or pearl clasps, among other items. 
 You can find our various jewelry designs in the   Mokume Gane Jewelry   category. 
 How durable are Mokume Gane rings? 
 A Mokume Gane composite crafted by a professional is suitable for long-lasting jewelry. As with any wedding band, however, its performance in everyday use depends on the precious metals used, the ring’s construction, the finish, and the amount of wear and tear it undergoes. 
 Therefore, it would be too simplistic to make a blanket statement that a particular metal inherently makes a Mokume Gane ring especially durable. A ring must always be considered as a single composite material. 
 Can the ring size be adjusted later? 
 In principle, Mokume-Gane rings can also be resized. However, due to the multi-layered material and the continuous pattern, such a modification requires experience with this material. 
 How a ring size adjustment is best carried out depends on the specific ring, its pattern, the precious metals used, and the extent of the desired change. That is why we first examine each Mokume-Gane ring individually. 
 Can Mokume Gane be engraved? 
 Yes. The inside of a Mokume-Gane wedding ring can be engraved just like other high-quality wedding rings. Options include names, dates, or personal messages. Custom engravings based on your own handwriting are also possible. 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Mokume Gane 
 What does Mokume Gane mean? 
 The Japanese term literally describes a wood-grain pattern in metal. It is characterized by the visible lines and structures of differently colored metal layers. 
 Is Mokume Gane folded? 
 Not in our manufacturing process. Various sheets of precious metal are first assembled into a layered block and bonded together through diffusion welding. This composite is then forged, rolled, and patterned as desired. 
 Is the pattern only on the surface? 
 No. The pattern is created by the differently colored metal layers within the composite material. It is neither an applied coating nor a printed decoration. 
 Are two Mokume Gane rings identical? 
 No. Even with a pair of matching wedding bands, the grain develops differently. The material combination and pattern characteristics may be the same, but the exact linework remains unique to each piece. 
 What metals do we use for Mokume Gane? 
 That depends on the specific model. The precious metals we use include, among others, yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, and silver. For some models, we also use other carefully selected combinations. 
 Does a Mokume-Gane pattern fade? 
 The pattern is an integral part of the multi-layered metal composite and therefore cannot simply fade like a surface-level color. However, the surface of a worn ring does change due to normal wear and tear and can be refinished if necessary. 
 Why is Mokume Gane particularly well-suited for wedding rings? 
 In addition to its unique appearance, the technique carries beautiful symbolism: two rings can be crafted from the same material yet each develop its own distinct pattern. With our seamless Mokume Gane rings, the closed band—without a visible seam—serves as a further symbol of lasting unity. 
 Mokume Gane from Our Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 For us, the fascination of Mokume Gane lies not only in its unusual grain. What matters most is the entire journey from the individual sheet of precious metal to the finished piece of jewelry. 
 We produce the multi-layered material ourselves in our workshop, develop various patterns from it, and forge them into custom rings and jewelry. This allows us to harmonize the material combinations, patterns, width, profile, and finish. 
 If you’d like to get an initial overview of our various patterns and material combinations, you’ll find them in our   Mokume Gane rings  . 
 And because the effect of a hand-forged pattern can only be fully appreciated in person, we’d be happy to consult with you in person at our goldsmith’s workshop in Beilstein regarding materials, patterns, and ring shapes. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-18T10:00:00+02:00</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">
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                                            Ruthenium is a rare metal in the platinum group. We explain its properties, its use in platinum alloys, and why ruthenium is particularly interesting for dark jewelry finishes.
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                  First published on June 4, 2025 · comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 18, 2026  
 Ruthenium – A Rare Platinum Group Metal with Unique Properties 
 Ruthenium is one of the six metals in the platinum group. This light, silvery precious metal is encountered much less frequently in jewelry than gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. Nevertheless, it plays an interesting role in metallurgy and also in jewelry making—particularly as a component of platinum alloys and as a dark surface coating. 
 Solid jewelry made of pure ruthenium, on the other hand, is an exception. The metal is hard and brittle and cannot be forged or shaped in the traditional way like gold or silver. For goldsmiths, therefore, it is not so much the pure metal itself that is of interest as the question  of how ruthenium can influence the properties of other jewelry metals or alter their surfaces.  
 What Is Ruthenium? 
 Ruthenium is a chemical element with the symbol  Ru  and atomic number 44. Together with platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, and osmium, it belongs to the platinum group metals. 
 The metal has a density of about 12.1 g/cm³ and a very high melting point of approximately 2333 °C. It is hard, wear-resistant, and resistant to many chemical influences. 
 Ruthenium was discovered and confirmed as a new element in the 19th century by Karl Ernst Claus. Its name is derived from  “Ruthenia ,” the Latin name for Russia. 
 What role does ruthenium play in jewelry? 
 Ruthenium is not a typical primary metal used in jewelry. Unlike   gold  , silver, or   platinum  , it is rarely used as a nearly pure material for a piece of jewelry. 
 Two applications are particularly noteworthy: 
 
  as an  alloying element , particularly in platinum alloys, 
  as a surface coating  when a dark to anthracite-colored jewelry surface is desired. 
 
 In this respect, its role in jewelry is somewhat similar to that of   rhodium  : here, too, it is often not the solid metal itself but its effect on a surface that is decisive. 
 Ruthenium in Platinum Alloys 
 Pure platinum is relatively soft for many applications. For this reason, platinum is specifically alloyed to modify its workability and hardness. 
 Ruthenium is an effective alloying element for platinum. A platinum-ruthenium alloy can be harder and more wear-resistant than pure platinum. Such alloys are therefore also used in jewelry. 
 It is important for goldsmiths to note that  not all platinum is the same.  The specific alloy composition influences hardness, malleability, weldability, and how the piece behaves during subsequent repairs or ring resizing. 
 You can find out more about this jewelry metal itself in our detailed   guide to platinum  . 
 Ruthenium as a Dark Jewelry Coating 
 A particularly visually interesting application is coating jewelry surfaces with ruthenium. While rhodium is typically used to create a very light, whitish surface, ruthenium coatings can appear significantly darker. 
 Depending on the process and coating, surfaces ranging from gray-anthracite to very dark can be achieved. This creates a strong contrast with yellow gold, rose gold, light-colored precious metals, or diamonds. 
 This dark metallic effect can be particularly appealing from a design perspective, especially for modern, graphic jewelry designs. 
 Is a ruthenium coating permanent? 
 The same basic rule applies here as with other electroplated finishes:  A coating is a layer, not a solid material.  
 On a ring worn daily, the surface is exposed to mechanical stress. Especially along edges, on the palm side, and other contact surfaces, a coating can change or wear away over time. 
 Therefore, a ruthenium plating should not be confused with a permanently solid-colored metal alloy. How long a plating remains visually unchanged depends, among other things, on the plating structure, the piece of jewelry, and wearing habits. 
 This distinction is also important when it comes to rhodium-plated jewelry. You can find more information on this in our article about   rhodium and rhodium plating  . 
 Ruthenium, Rhodium, and Platinum—What’s the Difference? 
 
 
 
  Property  
  Ruthenium  
  Rhodium  
  Platinum  
 
 
 Metal group 
 Platinum group 
 Platinum metal 
 Platinum metal 
 
 
 Typical use in jewelry 
 Alloy component and coating 
 primarily used for plating 
 Primary material for jewelry 
 
 
 Surface appearance 
 As a coating: gray to dark 
 Very light and whitish 
 Naturally gray-white 
 
 
 Solid jewelry 
 very rare 
 very rare 
 A well-established jewelry material 
 
 
 
 Is ruthenium a precious metal? 
 Yes. Ruthenium is classified as a platinum group metal and possesses high chemical resistance. In the jewelry industry, however, the term “precious metal” does not automatically mean that a metal is particularly suitable as a solid jewelry material. 
 Hardness, brittleness, melting point, and workability are just as important. Ruthenium, in particular, illustrates very well why goldsmiths cannot judge a metal solely based on its rarity or chemical classification. 
 Is ruthenium suitable for wedding rings? 
 As a solid ring material, ruthenium plays virtually no role comparable to that of gold, platinum, or palladium. It can, however, be of interest as a component of a platinum alloy or as a decorative surface coating. 
 When it comes to wedding rings, however, if a coating is used, it’s important to keep in mind that the band is exposed to heavy mechanical stress on a daily basis. Anyone who wants a dark look that lasts should therefore consider not only the color but also the construction, material, and future refinishing options. 
 On the other hand, those looking for a naturally light-colored platinum metal will find that   palladium   and platinum are two much more established jewelry materials. 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Ruthenium 
 What color is ruthenium? 
 Pure ruthenium is a silvery, lustrous metal. The dark or anthracite-colored surfaces commonly seen in jewelry result from specific coating processes and should not be equated with the natural color of a solid piece of ruthenium. 
 Is ruthenium black? 
 The pure metal is not black. However, ruthenium is used in jewelry for dark coatings, which is why the name is often associated with anthracite-colored or nearly black jewelry surfaces. 
 Can ruthenium tarnish? 
 Ruthenium has high chemical resistance. With ruthenium-coated jewelry, mechanical wear of the thin surface layer is more relevant in everyday use than traditional tarnishing. 
 Is ruthenium used in platinum? 
 Yes. Ruthenium can be added to platinum as an alloying element and particularly affects hardness and wear resistance. Platinum-ruthenium alloys are also used in jewelry. 
 Is ruthenium valuable? 
 Ruthenium is a rare platinum group metal and is traded internationally as a raw material. However, its market price fluctuates and says little about the value of a finished piece of jewelry. For jewelry, the alloy, design, and craftsmanship are also decisive factors. 
 Is ruthenium the same as rhodium? 
 No. Ruthenium and rhodium are two different chemical elements in the platinum group. In jewelry, rhodium is primarily used for light-colored rhodium plating, while ruthenium is particularly suitable for darker finishes. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 Ruthenium is particularly interesting for jewelry when its unique properties are specifically utilized. As a component of a platinum alloy, it can influence the material’s properties; as a coating, it enables striking dark finishes. 
 As a standalone solid jewelry metal, however, ruthenium occupies a niche market. This is precisely where it differs from gold, platinum, or palladium: for goldsmiths, what matters is not merely how rare or extraordinary a metal is, but  whether its properties are suited to the design, fabrication, and eventual use of the piece of jewelry.  
 You can find an overview of the various materials and their properties in our   “Precious Metals” guide section  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-18T09:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">What Do 585, 750, and 950 Mean? Gold Purity Explained Simply</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/what-do-585-750-and-950-mean-gold-purity-explained-simply</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/what-do-585-750-and-950-mean-gold-purity-explained-simply"/>
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                                            585, 750, 925, or 950: The numbers on jewelry indicate the fineness of the precious metal it contains. We explain what they mean, why jewelry metals are alloyed, and why a higher fineness doesn&#039;t automatically make for a better piece of jewelry.
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                 What do 585, 750, and 950 mean when it comes to jewelry? 
  First published on December 1, 2025 · comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 17,  2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated     
 Numbers such as 333, 585, 750, 925, or 950 can be found on many pieces of jewelry. They indicate the so-called  fineness  —that is, the proportion of the precious metal in the alloy’s name. 
 For example, a hallmark with the number 750 does not mean that a ring consists of 75 percent “metal,” but rather, specifically: Out of 1,000 parts by weight of the alloy, 750 parts are the specified precious metal. For 750 gold, this corresponds to 75 percent fine gold. 
 For the goldsmith’s workshop, however, the fineness is only one part of the material description. The remaining alloy components play a key role in determining the color, hardness, and workability of a jewelry metal. 
 What is fineness? 
 Fineness describes the mass fraction of a precious metal in an alloy. In jewelry, it is usually expressed in parts per thousand. 
 
 
 
  Designation  
  Percentage of Precious Metal  
  Typical Use  
 
 
 333 Gold 
 33.3% gold 
 Gold jewelry 
 
 
 585 gold 
 58.5% gold 
 Jewelry and Wedding Rings 
 
 
 750 gold 
 75.0% gold 
 High-quality jewelry and wedding rings 
 
 
 925 silver 
 92.5% silver 
 Sterling silver jewelry 
 
 
 950 platinum 
 95.0% platinum 
 High-quality jewelry and wedding rings 
 
 
 
 So, at first glance, the number simply indicates  how much of the respective precious metal is contained  in the alloy. It does not fully describe which metals make up the remaining portion of the alloy. 
 What does 585 gold mean? 
 In 585 gold, 585 out of every 1,000 parts by weight consist of fine gold. This corresponds to a gold content of 58.5 percent. The remaining 41.5 percent consists of other alloying metals. 
 The metals used in the alloy influence, among other things, its color. That is why there can be, for example, 585 yellow gold, 585 white gold, or 585 rose gold. The gold content is the same in each case, but the composition of the remaining 415 thousandths differs. 
 You can learn more about the composition and color effects in our   guide to yellow gold   and in our article on   white gold .  
 What does 750 gold mean? 
 750 gold contains 75 percent fine gold. The remaining 25 percent consists of alloying metals, which influence the color and technical properties. 
 750 gold thus has a significantly higher gold content than 585 gold. Nevertheless, the number alone does not indicate how hard or durable a specific piece of jewelry is. To determine this, the entire alloy must be considered. 
 Pure gold itself is extremely malleable. For this reason, gold is specifically combined with other metals when used in jewelry. We explain this relationship in more detail in our guide to  gold and pure gold . 
 What does 925 mean for silver? 
 The designation 925 indicates that the silver contains 92.5 percent silver. One of the best-known alloys of this type is sterling silver. 
 The remaining 7.5 percent consists of other alloy components. This gives the material properties that may be more suitable for jewelry making than those of fine silver. 
 Silver also has a distinctive characteristic that should not be confused with its fineness: its surface can tarnish. We explain in detail why this happens and how to care for silver in  our guide to silver as a jewelry metal . 
 What does 950 mean for platinum? 
 In 950 platinum, 95 percent of the alloy consists of platinum. This high fineness is characteristic of platinum jewelry. 
 Platinum has a naturally light color, high density, and excellent chemical resistance. Especially with rings, this high density is also noticeable in their weight. 
 You can find more about its properties, craftsmanship, and uses in our   guide to platinum .  
 Why are alloys used in jewelry at all? 
 A jewelry metal is not alloyed solely to reduce its precious metal content. The composition of an alloy allows important properties to be specifically tailored. 
 
  Color:  For example, gold can be used to create yellow gold, white gold, or rose gold. 
  Hardness and formability:  Alloy components alter the material’s mechanical behavior. 
  Workability:  Rolling, forging, soldering, setting, and polishing place different demands on the material. 
  Wear characteristics:  Different properties are important for a ring worn daily than, for example, for a pendant. 
 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, therefore, it’s not just the number in the hallmark that matters. What’s important is  which alloy is suitable for the specific piece of jewelry and the stresses it  will  face . 
 Is 750 gold better than 585 gold? 
 Not necessarily. 750 gold contains more fine gold and thus has a higher gold content. However, this does not mean that every 750 alloy is technically better suited for every application than every 585 alloy. 
 Hardness, elasticity, color, and finish depend on the overall composition and the condition of the material. Two gold alloys with the same fineness can therefore behave quite differently. 
 When selecting a piece of jewelry, the fineness should therefore be considered alongside the alloy, construction, surface finish, and intended use. 
 Why is the alloy particularly important in Mokume Gane? 
 In Mokume Gane, different precious metals or alloys are permanently bonded together. The choice of materials not only determines the resulting color effect but is also crucial for the craftsmanship involved. 
 The individual metals must be technically compatible with one another during the joining and subsequent forging processes. That is why we do not select material combinations based solely on their color. 
 In our   Mokume Gane rings  , the characteristic lines and grain patterns emerge from the interplay of different precious metal colors. This is precisely where it becomes very clear that fineness is only one aspect of what defines a jewelry alloy. 
 What does a hallmark on a piece of jewelry indicate? 
 A fineness number such as 585, 750, 925, or 950 is, first and foremost, a specification of the material. It indicates the fineness of the precious metal in question. 
 However, it says nothing about how intricately a piece of jewelry was crafted, how well a setting is worked, or the quality of craftsmanship in a ring. Likewise, the fineness mark alone does not reveal the complete composition of an alloy. 
 With older pieces of jewelry, it’s also important to note that hallmarks, manufacturer’s marks, and other stamps may look different. A professional appraisal may therefore be necessary for a reliable determination of the material. 
 Fineness and Family Heirlooms 
 The topic becomes particularly interesting when it comes to existing jewelry or family heirlooms. For example, an old ring with a 585 hallmark contains, mathematically speaking, 58.5 percent gold—but this does not reveal which metals make up the remaining portion. 
 This is one of the reasons why existing gold must be professionally evaluated when creating new pieces. Old jewelry is not simply “gold,” but rather an existing alloy with its own composition and history. 
 If you’d like to have new wedding rings made from existing jewelry, you’ll find your options in our category   “Wedding Rings Made from Family Gold and Recycled Gold .”  
 Gold Purity at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Hallmarks  
  Meaning  
 
 
 333 
 33.3% of the specified precious metal 
 
 
 585 
 58.5% of the specified precious metal 
 
 
 750 
 75.0% of the specified precious metal 
 
 
 925 
 92.5% of the specified precious metal 
 
 
 950 
 95.0% of the specified precious metal 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Fine Content in Jewelry 
 What does 585 mean on a ring? 
 On a gold ring, 585 means that the gold alloy consists of 58.5 percent fine gold. The remaining 41.5 percent consists of other alloying metals. 
 Which is more valuable: 585 or 750 gold? 
 For the same weight, 750 gold contains more fine gold than 585 gold. However, the value of a finished piece of jewelry depends not only on the precious metal it contains, but also on its design, craftsmanship, gemstones, and other factors. 
 Is 750 gold softer than 585 gold? 
 This cannot be answered based solely on the fineness. The mechanical properties are determined by the overall alloy composition and its craftsmanship. 
 What does 925 mean on a piece of jewelry? 
 For silver, 925 indicates a silver content of 92.5 percent. Sterling silver is the best-known jewelry alloy with this fineness. 
 Why is platinum often marked with the number 950? 
 950 platinum contains 95 percent platinum. Platinum jewelry is often made with a very high platinum content. 
 Does a high fineness indicate the quality of the jewelry? 
 Yes, regarding the precious metal content—but no, regarding the overall quality. The design, alloy, workmanship, setting, finish, and craftsmanship cannot be determined from the fineness number alone. 
 Our conclusion from the goldsmiths 
 585, 750, 925, or 950 are not quality ratings, but rather precise indications of  a precious metal’s fineness . 
 Therefore, simply choosing the highest number possible is not enough to ensure a good piece of jewelry. What matters most is that the material, alloy, and construction are suited to the piece and its intended use. 
 That is precisely why, in our workshop, we consider more than just the fineness. Color, workability, how it wears, and how it combines with other materials are at least as important—especially for custom-made rings and Mokume Gane. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-17T10:15:00+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 belongs to the platinum group and is particularly notable for its enormous density and the extraordinary appearance of crystalline osmium. We explain its properties, unique characteristics, and why it is an interesting material for jewelry.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                  First published on May 1, 2025 · Comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 17, 2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated  
 Osmium—an extraordinary metal from the platinum group 
 Osmium, along with platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, and iridium, belongs to the so-called platinum metals. Its physical properties alone make it unusual: Osmium has an extremely high density and is very hard yet brittle. 
 Today,  crystalline osmium  is of particular interest for jewelry. Its finely textured surface reflects light through numerous small facets, creating a look that differs significantly from a classically polished metal surface. 
 Osmium is not yet one of the jewelry metals we regularly work with. We are currently exploring the possibilities of this material and gauging just how much interest there actually is in   osmium jewelry and osmium rings  . 
 What is osmium? 
 Osmium has the chemical symbol  Os  and the atomic number 76. It is a chemical element and belongs to the platinum group of metals. 
 Osmium occurs naturally only in very low concentrations. It is found primarily in combination with other platinum group metals and, unlike gold, is not mined in large quantities as a traditional raw material for jewelry. 
 This dense metal has a bluish-white to silvery appearance. Its exceptionally high density, as well as its hardness and brittleness, are particularly noteworthy. 
 Is osmium really the densest metal? 
 Osmium is often referred to as the densest known element. Its density is approximately 22.6 g/cm³, which is exceptionally high. 
 However, osmium and iridium are very close in density. Depending on the measurement and calculation method, slightly different values may be reported. For practical purposes, therefore, it can be stated that  osmium, together with iridium, is among the densest known elements.  
 By comparison, gold has a density of about 19.3 g/cm³, and platinum about 21.5 g/cm³. Osmium is thus exceptionally dense even compared to these already heavy precious metals. 
 Why does crystalline osmium look so special? 
 The striking appearance of crystalline osmium is not the result of a traditional high-gloss polish. Rather, it is due to its finely structured crystalline surface. 
 Numerous small surfaces reflect incoming light from different angles. This creates a lively sparkle that changes depending on the lighting and the viewing angle. 
 It is precisely this surface effect that makes osmium appealing to jewelry designers. The material does not need to be used over a large area; even a small inlay can create a striking visual accent. 
       
 How can osmium be used in jewelry? 
 Osmium is not a traditional goldsmithing metal that can be simply forged and shaped into a ring the way gold, silver, or platinum can be. Compact osmium is hard and brittle, making it only partially suitable for traditional forming techniques. 
 For jewelry, therefore, the use of  crystalline osmium as a design element or inlay  is particularly appealing. It can be combined with suitable carrier materials and traditional jewelry metals. 
 From a design perspective, this is precisely what makes it so appealing: a relatively small area of crystalline osmium can create a striking contrast to a subdued gold, platinum, or palladium surface. 
 Osmium is not the same as osmium tetroxide 
 When discussing osmium, one quickly encounters references to its toxicity. Here, a clear technical distinction must be made. 
  Osmium tetroxide ( OsO₄ )  is a highly toxic and volatile osmium compound. It must not be equated with a finished jewelry element made of crystalline osmium. 
 Osmium in a particularly fine dispersion is problematic because its larger surface area can promote oxidation and, consequently, the formation of osmium tetroxide. Production and processing must therefore be entrusted to appropriately specialized professionals. 
 For consumers, therefore, it is not only the term “osmium” that matters, but also  the form in which the material is used and the manufacturing process involved . 
 A Comparison of Osmium, Platinum, and Gold 
 
 
 
  Property  
  Osmium  
  Platinum  
  Gold  
 
 
 Metal Group 
 Platinum group 
 Platinum metal 
 Precious metal 
 
 
 Density 
 approx. 22.6 g/cm³ 
 approx. 21.5 g/cm³ 
 approx. 19.3 g/cm³ 
 
 
 Processing 
 Hard and brittle; requires special processing 
 Traditional, high-quality jewelry material 
 Very easy to alloy and work 
 
 
 Optical Characteristics 
 Crystalline, highly light-reflective surface 
 Naturally light color 
 Varied colors due to alloying 
 
 
 
 Like platinum, osmium belongs to the platinum group of metals. If you’d like to learn more about this well-established jewelry metal, you can find information on its properties, processing, and uses in our   guide to platinum  . 
 You can also find a direct comparison of two classic jewelry and precious metals in the guide   “Which Is More Valuable, Platinum or Gold?  ”. 
 Is osmium more valuable than gold? 
 This question cannot be answered solely based on the rarity of an element. Market price, availability, processing, form of trade, and demand also play a role. 
 In the case of crystalline osmium, there are also additional costs associated with its specialized processing. Therefore, price quotes for crystalline osmium cannot be directly compared to the exchange-traded price of gold. 
 When it comes to jewelry, osmium should first and foremost be considered  an exceptional design material . Rarity or material properties alone do not justify a blanket statement that osmium is automatically a better investment than gold. 
 Is osmium a good choice for wedding rings? 
 Especially for wedding rings, the combination of a smooth ring surface with a highly reflective material could be appealing. Crystalline osmium, for example, can be used as a limited design element or inlay. We showcase one possible design with our   osmium wedding rings  , which we are currently using to gauge interest in such ring concepts. 
 Construction, protection of the material, comfort, and future refinishing options must be taken into account from the very beginning. A wedding ring worn daily poses different challenges than a pendant or a piece of jewelry worn only occasionally. 
 That is why we do not simply view osmium as a substitute for gold or platinum. The more interesting question is  what unique design possibilities this material offers.  
       
 Osmium Jewelry at Wiesner—Currently a Market Test 
 Osmium fascinates us above all because of its unusual surface and the possibility it offers to create strong contrasts with classic jewelry metals. 
 However, we  do not yet  carry  a regular osmium jewelry line , nor are we currently producing our own osmium collection. We are exploring the material and would first like to determine which jewelry ideas are actually in demand. 
 That’s why we’ve set up our   Osmium Jewelry and Osmium Rings   section. There, we’re specifically exploring this topic and observing which applications and types of jewelry generate particular interest. 
 If you’re specifically interested in a ring, wedding bands, or another piece of jewelry made with crystalline osmium, please feel free to contact us. Such specific requests help us assess which direction might be of interest for future jewelry designs. 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Osmium 
 What is Osmium? 
 Osmium is a chemical element with the symbol Os and atomic number 76. It is one of the six platinum group metals and is characterized, among other things, by its exceptionally high density as well as its great hardness and brittleness. 
 What color is osmium? 
 Metallic osmium is usually described as bluish-white to silvery. In crystalline osmium, the visual appearance is also strongly influenced by the textured surface and the lighting. 
 Can a ring be made entirely of osmium? 
 Osmium is much less suitable for traditional goldsmithing techniques than gold, silver, or platinum. For jewelry, therefore, crystalline osmium is particularly interesting as an inlay or design element. 
 Is osmium toxic? 
 Here, a distinction must be made between different forms and compounds. Osmium tetroxide, a highly toxic and volatile osmium compound, is particularly hazardous. Even finely dispersed osmium must be handled properly. A finished jewelry piece made of crystalline osmium should not be equated with this in general. 
 Is osmium heavier than gold? 
 Yes. With a density of approximately 22.6 g/cm³, osmium is denser than gold, which has a density of about 19.3 g/cm³. Even compared to platinum, which has a density of about 21.5 g/cm³, osmium is among the denser elements. 
 Is osmium more valuable than gold? 
 A direct comparison is difficult. The price of crystalline osmium is influenced by factors such as rarity, processing, form of trade, and demand, and cannot be directly compared to the exchange-traded price of gold. 
 Does Wiesner already work with osmium? 
 At this time, we do not yet offer a regular line of osmium jewelry. We are exploring the possibilities of the material and closely monitoring interest in jewelry and rings made with crystalline osmium. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Osmium is particularly interesting to us because it differs significantly from traditional jewelry metals. Its extreme density, hardness, and—in particular—the extraordinary surface of crystalline osmium open up design possibilities that gold, silver, or platinum simply do not offer. 
 At the same time, osmium is not a material that should simply be treated like a traditional goldsmithing material. Its unique properties require suitable designs and specialized processing methods. 
 We do not wish to speculate on whether this will actually lead to our own pieces of jewelry or a small collection in the future. That is precisely why we are keeping a close eye on this topic—and, above all, on the specific requests we receive regarding   osmium jewelry  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-17T09:30:00+02:00</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">
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                                            Why does silver tarnish, while platinum and palladium retain their natural color? We explain the differences between silver, gold, white gold, platinum, and palladium from a goldsmith’s perspective—and what patina, rhodium plating, and signs of wear have to do with it.
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                <![CDATA[
                  First published on November 17, 2025 · comprehensively revised on September 16, 2026 · Image: AI-generated illustration  
 Which precious metal doesn’t tarnish? 
 Whether a piece of jewelry appears darker, duller, or discolored over time depends heavily on the metal used and its alloy. Silver, in particular, is known for its typical dark tarnish. Platinum and palladium, on the other hand, are exceptionally resistant to corrosion. With gold, it depends primarily on which other metals are contained in the respective gold alloy. 
 It’s important to distinguish between  tarnishing, patina, and normal signs of wear . Not every change to a piece of jewelry’s surface is a chemical reaction—and certainly not an indication of poor quality. 
 What does “tarnishing” mean in the context of jewelry? 
 Tarnishing refers to a chemical change on the surface of a metal. In this process, components of the metal react with substances in its environment. Depending on the material, oxygen or sulfur compounds, for example, may be involved. 
 A typical example is silver. It reacts particularly with sulfur-containing compounds and can thus form a yellowish, brownish, or even black surface coating. 
 Surface changes are promoted by, among other things: 
 
 air and humidity, 
 sweat and skin contact, 
 cosmetics, perfume, and hairspray, 
 cleaning and household chemicals, 
 substances containing sulfur in the environment. 
 
 When it comes to jewelry, therefore, the specific material must always be considered. Even an alloy can behave differently than the pure precious metal of which it is primarily composed. 
 Silver—Why It Can Tarnish So Easily 
 Silver is the classic example of a jewelry metal that tarnishes.  925 sterling silver  is frequently used in jewelry making. The number 925 means that the alloy consists of 92.5 percent silver. 
 Silver can react with sulfur compounds. This reaction produces silver sulfide on the surface, which appears as a dark coating. As a result, jewelry can tarnish even during prolonged storage without having been worn. 
 This is not an unusual form of damage to the material. The coating is on the surface and can be removed using appropriate methods. 
 To learn more about sterling silver, fine silver, alloys, and their use in our workshop, see our   guide on silver as a jewelry metal  . 
 Does gold tarnish? 
  Pure gold is chemically extremely stable.  Fine gold with a fineness of 999 hardly reacts with its surroundings under normal everyday conditions and does not exhibit the dark tarnish typical of silver. 
 However, jewelry is rarely made of pure gold. For wearable jewelry, gold is alloyed with other metals. This allows the color, hardness, and workability to be specifically adjusted. 
 In 750 gold, 75 percent of the alloy consists of fine gold; in 585 gold, it is 58.5 percent. The remaining components can include, for example, silver, copper, or palladium. 
 The lower the gold content and the higher the proportion of more reactive alloy metals, the more likely surface changes are to occur under certain conditions. However, high-quality 585 and 750 gold alloys are very durable in everyday jewelry use. 
 You can find basic information about gold, fineness, and jewelry alloys in our   guide to gold and fine gold  . 
 What makes white gold different? 
 White gold is not a separate type of metal, but rather a gold alloy. The yellow color of the gold is lightened by additional alloying elements. Depending on the formulation, white gold can therefore have a more grayish-white undertone. 
 Many white gold jewelry pieces are also  rhodium-plated . This process applies a very thin layer of rhodium to the surface, which creates a particularly bright and cool white tone. 
 If a ring worn daily is subjected to wear and tear over a long period of time, this rhodium layer may wear away in places. Then the natural color of the white gold alloy reappears underneath. 
 This is occasionally mistaken for “tarnishing,” but it is something entirely different: The white gold has not chemically discolored—the surface coating has simply been worn away mechanically. 
 We explain in detail how white gold and rhodium plating are related in   our guide to white gold  . 
 Platinum – naturally light in color and highly corrosion-resistant 
 Platinum belongs to the platinum group of metals and has a naturally light, grayish-white color. High-quality jewelry often uses  950 platinum . 
 Platinum is exceptionally resistant to many environmental factors and does not exhibit the typical dark tarnish seen in silver during normal daily wear. 
 What does change, however, is the surface that is subjected to mechanical stress. A polished platinum ring will develop scratches and fine signs of wear from daily use. Over time, this can result in a characteristic matte to silky-looking surface, often referred to as  a platinum patina . 
 This patina is not tarnish. It results from wearing the piece of jewelry. 
 You can find more about the properties, weight, and craftsmanship of   platinum   in our   guide to platinum as a jewelry metal  . 
 Palladium – a light-colored precious metal from the platinum group 
 Palladium is also a member of the platinum group. It naturally has a light gray-white color and is significantly lighter than platinum. 
 Palladium and suitable palladium alloys are highly corrosion-resistant and, when worn as jewelry, do not exhibit the typical dark tarnish seen in silver. 
 However, as with any ring that is worn, scratches, dull spots, and other mechanical signs of wear will develop. These alter the surface’s reflection of light but do not fundamentally change the material’s natural color. 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, palladium also plays an important role in   Mokume Gane rings  . There, we combine different precious metals and alloys to create the characteristic light and warm lines of the grain pattern. 
 For more information on the material, see our   guide to palladium  . 
 Tarnish, patina, or scratches—what’s the difference? 
 
 
 
  Change  
  Cause  
  Example  
 
 
 Tarnish 
 chemical surface reaction 
 dark coating on silver 
 
 
 Patina 
 Change in the surface appearance due to use or intentional treatment 
 typical wear patina on platinum 
 
 
 Signs of wear 
 Mechanical stress 
 Scratches on a polished ring 
 
 
 Wear on a coating 
 Mechanical wear of a thin surface layer 
 Fading rhodium plating on white gold 
 
 
 
 What role does the surface of a piece of jewelry play? 
 Even though a precious metal does not chemically tarnish, a piece of jewelry worn daily will not remain permanently as it was when it left the workshop. 
 Polished surfaces show fine scratches particularly clearly. Satin-finished surfaces can become smoother and shinier over time due to friction. Textured surfaces also change, but often make individual signs of wear less noticeable. 
 This is especially true for wedding rings: They are worn every day and come into contact with doorknobs, tools, dishes, desks, and countless other surfaces. Signs of wear are therefore not solely a matter of the precious metal itself, but a natural consequence of wearing the jewelry. 
 Which precious metal is particularly low-maintenance? 
 If you’re primarily looking for a metal that retains its bright color over time without an additional coating, platinum or palladium are very durable options. High-quality gold alloys are also exceptionally well-suited for everyday use. 
 Silver requires a bit more attention because dark tarnish layers can become visible. However, silver can be cleaned and restored very effectively by a goldsmith. 
 Nevertheless, a blanket ranking would be of little use. For a wedding ring, factors such as weight, color, ring construction, desired design, alloy, possible gemstones, and the ability to make changes later are just as crucial as the surface’s behavior. 
 Can tarnished or scratched jewelry be restored? 
 In many cases, yes. Professional restoration is part of standard goldsmithing practice. 
 Depending on the piece of jewelry, surfaces can be cleaned, polished, matted, or textured. In the case of rhodium-plated white gold, a new layer of rhodium can be applied after appropriate preparation. 
 However, the extent to which refurbishment is advisable always depends on the specific piece of jewelry. Engravings, settings, gemstones, and special finishes must all be taken into account. 
 Which precious metal doesn’t tarnish? 
 For everyday jewelry, the question can be answered simply as follows: 
 
  Silver:  can tarnish significantly. 
  Gold:  is very durable; its behavior in jewelry depends on the fineness and alloy components. 
  White gold:  does not tarnish to a dark color like silver; however, the rhodium coating on rhodium-plated white gold can wear off. 
  Platinum:  highly corrosion-resistant and does not typically tarnish in everyday use. 
  Palladium:  also highly corrosion-resistant and naturally light in color. 
 
 Therefore, the question “Does it tarnish?” is not the only decisive factor. For a piece of jewelry intended to be worn for many years, the specific alloy, the construction, the finish, and the possibility of professional restoration at a later date are equally important. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 A change in a piece of jewelry’s surface does not automatically mean that a precious metal has tarnished. Silver can indeed form a dark reaction layer. With platinum, palladium, and high-quality gold alloys, however, we primarily see changes in everyday use caused by wear itself: scratches, loss of luster, patina, or wear on a surface coating. 
 Especially with wedding bands, this evolution is part of a piece of jewelry’s life. The key is to choose a material that suits the desired design and your personal wearing habits—and to know that many surfaces can be professionally restored even after many years. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-16T10:15:00+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"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Red gold gets its warm reddish hue primarily from copper. We explain the alloy, fineness, differences from rose gold, care, and its use in jewelry and Mokume Gane.
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            </summary>
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                 Rose Gold – Composition, Color, and Use in Jewelry 
  First published on June 9, 2024 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 15, 2026. · Illustrations used: AI-generated   
 Rose gold is one of the most striking classic gold alloys. Depending on its composition, its warm hue ranges from a subtle rosé-colored gold to a distinctly reddish tone. 
 The color is not the result of a coating. Red gold is a  gold alloy colored throughout , with copper being primarily responsible for the reddish hue. 
 For us as goldsmiths, red gold is particularly interesting when different metal colors are combined. In our   Mokume Gane rings  , we therefore specifically use red gold in various designs to create a warm contrast to palladium, silver, or yellow gold. 
 What is rose gold? 
 Rose gold is not a distinct type of gold, but rather a  gold alloy . Fine gold is combined with other metals to alter the material’s color and technical properties. 
 The most important alloying element for the red color is copper. Depending on the formula, the alloy may also contain silver, for example. 
 The principle is simple: Pure   fine gold   has an intense yellow hue. Copper adds a reddish tint to the alloy. Silver, in turn, can lighten the color. 
 That is why there is not just a single shade of red gold, nor is there just a single red gold formulation. 
 What is red gold made of? 
 The exact composition depends on the desired fineness, color tone, and the required working properties. 
 Typical components include: 
 
  Gold  as the precious metal that determines its value, 
  copper  as the primary colorant for the reddish hue, 
 and, depending on the formula,  silver  or other alloying elements. 
 
 A blanket statement such as “red gold always consists of 75% gold, 22.25% copper, and 2.75% silver” would therefore be incorrect. That would merely be one possible composition. 
 585 or 750 rose gold—what does that mean? 
 The numbers 585 and 750 indicate the fine gold content of the alloy. 
 
 
 
  Alloy  
  Fine Gold Content  
  Percentage of Other Metals  
 
 
 585 rose gold 
 58.5% 
 41.5% 
 
 
 750 red gold 
 75.0% 
 25.0% 
 
 
 
 The number alone does not reveal which metals make up the remaining proportions. 
 In the case of rose gold in particular, this ratio significantly influences the color. Since 585 rose gold has more room for alloying metals than 750 rose gold, it allows for correspondingly intense copper tones. 
 However, the fineness alone does not indicate whether a piece of jewelry is “better” or more durable. To determine that, one must always consider the specific alloy. 
 Why is rose gold red? 
 Copper is primarily responsible for this. 
 The higher its proportion within a gold alloy, the more pronounced the warm reddish hue becomes. Silver, on the other hand, appears lighter and can tone down the red effect. 
 This allows for different color variations. Two rose gold rings with the same gold fineness do not necessarily have to be exactly the same color. 
 This is an important distinction from a surface coating: if rose gold is polished or refinished, a different metal color does not suddenly appear underneath. The hue comes from the alloy itself. 
 Red gold or rose gold—what’s the difference? 
 There is no strictly defined chemical distinction between red gold and rose gold in the jewelry trade. 
 Both terms refer to reddish gold alloys. In common parlance, a lighter, more delicate, and pinkish gold hue is usually referred to as  rose gold , while a more intense reddish hue is typically called  red gold . 
 What the color actually looks like depends on the fineness and the alloy’s composition. 
 That’s why it makes more sense to examine a specific piece of jewelry or a material sample rather than relying solely on the terms “red gold” or “rose gold.” 
 Is red gold harder than yellow gold? 
 There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. 
 Copper can significantly alter the mechanical properties of gold. Nevertheless, this does not mean that every red gold alloy is automatically harder than every   yellow gold alloy  . 
 Fineness, exact composition, manufacturing process, and material condition all influence hardness and malleability. 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, therefore, the specific alloy is always the decisive factor—not just its color. 
 Rose Gold in Jewelry Making 
 Rose gold can be used for nearly all classic types of jewelry: rings, wedding bands, engagement rings, pendants, earrings, or bangles. 
 From a design perspective, its particular strength lies in its warm natural color. A piece of jewelry can be made entirely of red gold, or red gold can be specifically combined with metals of other colors. 
 This effect is particularly evident in multicolored pieces of jewelry. When paired with light-colored metals such as palladium, platinum, or silver, red gold stands out much more prominently than when paired with yellow gold. 
 Red Gold in Mokume Gane 
 In Mokume Gane, red gold is particularly interesting to us because the color doesn’t just define a large surface area but can run as a single line through the grain pattern. 
 In our own workshop, we fuse different layers of precious metals into a solid composite material. Through subsequent forging, rolling, and patterning, the individual layers become visible on the surface. 
 As a result, rose gold can create very different effects when set against gray palladium, light silver, and yellow gold. 
 Aiele – Red Gold and Palladium 
 A particularly clear example is our   Aiele Mokume Gane rings  . 
 In the current design, we combine  585 red gold with 500 palladium . As a result, only two metal colors interact: the warm red gold and the cooler gray of the palladium. 
 Precisely because no other colors are added, it is very easy to see here just how strongly red gold can influence the character of a Mokume Gane ring. 
 Abarco – Red Gold in Four-Color Mokume Gane 
 Red gold takes on yet another look in our   Abarco Mokume Gane rings  . 
 Here we use  750 yellow gold, 585 rose gold, 500 palladium, and 925 silver . Rose gold is thus just one of four metal colors. 
 Its reddish lines add warm accents among the gold, gray, and silver tones. It is precisely these kinds of combinations that demonstrate why an alloy’s inherent color is so important in Mokume Gane: every single layer contributes to the pattern’s overall effect. 
 Rose Gold and Skin Tone 
 Red gold is occasionally recommended for certain skin types. However, we consider such blanket rules to be of little help during the consultation process. 
 How a metal looks on your finger depends on more than just your skin tone. Ring width, finish, shape, combinations with other metals, and, of course, personal taste all play at least as significant a role. 
 With red gold in particular, it’s therefore worth examining how the color looks on your own finger. 
 Does rose gold change color? 
 Rose gold is not a colored coating and therefore cannot simply “wear off.” 
 As with any piece of jewelry that’s worn, however, the surface does change. Polished surfaces develop fine scratches, matte surfaces can become shinier due to friction, and textured surfaces develop their own patina over time. 
 In copper-rich alloys, surface reactions may also occur. However, this does not mean that red gold will turn into a metal of a different color. 
 Can rose gold stain the skin? 
 With copper-containing alloys, temporary discoloration of the skin may occur under certain conditions. Moisture, sweat, cosmetics, and individual skin chemistry can all play a role in this. 
 Such discoloration does not automatically mean that a piece of jewelry is of inferior quality. 
 The severity of such reactions depends on the specific alloy and the wearer. 
 How do you care for rose gold? 
 Rose gold does not require any special care. 
 For routine cleaning, lukewarm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft brush or cloth are usually sufficient. Afterward, the piece of jewelry should be rinsed with clean water and dried thoroughly. 
 Strong abrasive cleaners or harsh household cleaners are not suitable; they can damage the surface. 
 For jewelry with diamonds, gemstones, or intricate finishes, cleaning should always be tailored to the entire piece. 
 Can rose gold be refinished? 
 Yes. Depending on the design, signs of wear on rose gold jewelry can be reduced through professional polishing, matting, or reworking the original surface texture. 
 However, a Mokume-Gane ring requires a different approach than a solid-color rose gold ring. The visible grain pattern should be preserved and must not be unnecessarily altered by excessive refinishing. 
 Professional restoration is therefore particularly advisable for handmade or multicolored rings. 
 Rose Gold at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Material Type  
 Gold Alloy 
 
 
  Color-giving component  
 primarily copper 
 
 
  Other possible components  
 e.g., silver, depending on the alloy composition 
 
 
  Common finenesses  
 585 and 750 
 
 
  Color  
 Warm rose-colored to distinctly reddish 
 
 
  Coating?  
 No, the color comes from the alloy itself 
 
 
  Typical uses  
 Rings, wedding bands, engagement rings, and jewelry 
 
 
  At Wiesner Mokume Gane  
 e.g., in the Aiele, Abarco, Sipo, and other models 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Rose Gold 
 Is rose gold real gold? 
 Yes. Red gold is a gold alloy. In 585 red gold, 58.5 percent of the alloy consists of fine gold; in 750 red gold, it is 75 percent. 
 Why does copper make gold red? 
 Fine gold has a yellow hue, while copper has a distinctly redder one. When the two metals are alloyed, the color of the material shifts toward red or rose. 
 What is the difference between red gold and rose gold? 
 There is no definitive chemical distinction. In common parlance, a lighter, more delicate reddish gold tone is usually called rose gold, while a more vibrant shade is called red gold. 
 Is 750 red gold better than 585 red gold? 
 750 red gold has a higher gold content. However, this does not automatically mean that it is technically better suited for every jewelry application. Color, hardness, and workability depend on the overall alloy. 
 Is red gold only red on the surface? 
 No. Unlike a coating, the color comes from the alloy itself and extends throughout the entire material. 
 Is rose gold suitable for wedding rings? 
 Yes. Suitable rose gold alloys work very well for wedding rings. As with all wedding ring materials, the specific alloy, design, and professional craftsmanship are important. 
 Does Wiesner use rose gold for Mokume Gane? 
 Yes. Rose gold is a component of various Mokume Gane designs created by our goldsmiths. For example, we combine it with palladium or with yellow gold, palladium, and silver. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 Rose gold is far more than just “red gold.” Only the specific combination of fine gold with copper—and, if necessary, other alloying elements—produces the desired color and technical properties of the material. 
 That is precisely why, when it comes to rose gold, it’s worth taking a closer look at the specific alloy. 585 and 750 describe the gold content, but not the exact color or behavior of the material. 
 In our workshop, we particularly value rose gold as a contrasting metal in   Mokume Gane rings  . Even narrow lines of rose gold can create a completely different effect in a grain pattern when combined with palladium, silver, and yellow gold. 
 For more information on gold alloys and jewelry metals, please visit our   “Precious Metals” guide section  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-15T11:15:00+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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                 Iridium – A Rare Platinum Group Metal and Alloying Metal Used in Jewelry 
  First published on June 6, 2024 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 14,  2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated     
 Iridium is one of the rarest metals on Earth. It is exceptionally dense, has a very high melting point, and is highly resistant to chemical attack. Nevertheless, iridium is not typically used as a standalone jewelry metal in jewelry manufacturing. 
 It becomes particularly interesting as  a component in platinum alloys . However, one should be cautious about making simplistic statements such as “iridium makes platinum especially hard”: The properties of a platinum alloy always depend on its overall composition and its state of processing. 
 What Is Iridium? 
 Iridium is a chemical element with the symbol  Ir  and atomic number 77. Together with platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, and osmium, it belongs to the group of platinum metals. 
 The pure metal has a silvery-white color. Its high density, high melting point, and exceptional chemical resistance are particularly notable. 
 In the world of jewelry, iridium is much rarer than   platinum   or   palladium  . 
 When was iridium discovered? 
 Iridium was discovered in 1803 by the English chemist Smithson Tennant. During his analysis of raw platinum, a dark, insoluble residue remained after treating it with aqua regia. 
 Tennant was able to isolate two previously unknown elements from it: iridium and osmium. 
 The name “iridium” derives from the Latin word  “iris ,” meaning “rainbow.” This was due to the different colors of various iridium compounds. 
 What are the properties of iridium? 
 Iridium possesses some extraordinary physical and chemical properties: 
 
 With a density of approximately  22.56 g/cm³ , it is one of the densest known metals. 
 Its melting point is approximately  2,446 °C . 
 It is exceptionally corrosion-resistant. 
 Pure iridium is hard yet brittle. 
 It has a silvery-white metallic color. 
 
 It is precisely the combination of a high melting point, chemical resistance, and brittleness that explains why iridium, despite its rarity, is not simply crafted into jewelry like gold or silver. 
 Is iridium a precious metal? 
 Yes. Iridium is classified as a precious metal and belongs to the group of six platinum metals. 
 This group includes: 
 
 platinum, 
 palladium, 
 rhodium, 
 iridium, 
 ruthenium, and 
 osmium. 
 
 These metals sometimes have very different technical properties. The fact that they belong to the same group of metals does not, therefore, mean that they are interchangeable in goldsmithing. 
 Why is jewelry rarely made from solid iridium? 
 The properties that make iridium technically interesting also make it difficult to work with using traditional goldsmithing techniques. 
 Its high melting point of around 2,446 °C is far above the melting temperatures of traditional gold and silver alloys. Furthermore, iridium in its pure form is brittle and difficult to shape. 
 For a goldsmith, therefore, solid iridium is not a material that can be forged, rolled, and processed into a piece of jewelry in the traditional way, as gold, silver, platinum, or palladium can be. 
 Rather, its significance in jewelry lies in its use as a component of certain alloys. 
 Iridium in Platinum Alloys 
 A well-known application in the jewelry industry is the alloying of  platinum with iridium . 
 Historically and internationally, for example, platinum alloys containing 90 percent platinum and 10 percent iridium are well known. In addition, there are also alloys with 95 percent platinum and 5 percent iridium. 
 It is important to note that the iridium content alone does not determine how hard or durable the finished alloy is. 
 A Pt900/iridium alloy may have different mechanical properties than a Pt950/iridium alloy. Manufacturing processes, forming, and work hardening also influence the material’s behavior. 
 Therefore, a platinum-iridium alloy should not be generally described as “scratch-resistant” or “extremely hard.” 
 Does iridium make platinum scratch-resistant? 
  No.  That would be too simplistic. 
 Even jewelry made from a platinum-iridium alloy will show signs of wear when worn. A ring is constantly exposed to friction, impacts, and contact with harder objects. 
 Furthermore, different platinum-iridium alloys have different degrees of hardness. A higher fineness or the addition of a particularly hard metal does not automatically mean that the resulting alloy is also as hard as possible. 
 That is precisely why, at Goldschmiede, we always consider the  specific alloy  and not just the names of its components. 
 Iridium or platinum—what’s the difference? 
 
 
 
  Property  
  Iridium  
  Platinum  
 
 
 Chemical symbol 
 Ir 
 Pt 
 
 
 Density 
 approx. 22.56 g/cm³ 
 approx. 21.45 g/cm³ 
 
 
 Melting point 
 approx. 2,446 °C 
 approx. 1,768 °C 
 
 
 Processing 
 Very difficult in its pure form 
 Easily workable as a suitable jewelry alloy 
 
 
 Significance for jewelry 
 primarily an alloying metal 
 A material used on its own for jewelry and wedding rings 
 
 
 
 What other platinum alloys are there? 
 Iridium is by no means the only possible alloying element in jewelry-grade platinum. 
 Depending on the intended use, metals such as palladium, ruthenium, cobalt, copper, or others are or have been used. This allows for the targeted adjustment of properties such as hardness, castability, formability, and machinability. 
 That is why the designation  “950 platinum”  initially only indicates that the alloy consists of 950 thousandths—or 95 percent—platinum. The metals that make up the remaining 50 thousandths can vary. 
 We explain more about fineness marks in our guide   “What Do 585, 750, and 950 Mean?  ” 
 Does Wiesner use iridium in Mokume Gane? 
 Iridium is not a component of our Mokume Gane layer combinations. 
 For our   Mokume Gane rings  , we use different combinations of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, and platinum, depending on the model. 
 It’s not just the color of a metal that matters. The different alloys must also be technically suitable for welding the layers together, as well as for the subsequent forging and patterning. 
 Iridium is therefore of interest to our Mokume Gane work primarily as a metallurgical topic within the platinum group, rather than as a visible metal layer in its own right. 
 Where is iridium used outside of jewelry? 
 Due to its high resistance to temperature and corrosion, iridium is used for specialized technical applications. 
 These include, for example, high-stress contacts and components, as well as special alloys. Its historical significance is also noteworthy: The former international meter prototype consisted of an alloy of 90 percent platinum and 10 percent iridium. 
 For a jewelry guide, however, industrial uses are of secondary importance. What matters most here is iridium’s role as a potential component in special platinum alloys. 
 Iridium at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Chemical Symbol  
 Ir 
 
 
  Atomic number  
 77 
 
 
  Group  
 Platinum group metals 
 
 
  Density  
 approx. 22.56 g/cm³ 
 
 
  Melting point  
 approx. 2,446 °C 
 
 
  Color  
 silvery-white 
 
 
  Distinctive Feature  
 Very high corrosion resistance 
 
 
  Use in jewelry  
 primarily as a component of certain platinum alloys 
 
 
  Solid iridium jewelry  
 Uncommon due to the difficulty of working with it 
 
 
  Wiesner Mokume Gane  
 Iridium is not used as a separate layer 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Iridium 
 Is iridium a precious metal? 
 Yes. Iridium, along with platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, and osmium, belongs to the platinum group of metals. 
 Is iridium heavier than platinum? 
 Yes. With a density of approximately 22.56 g/cm³, iridium is slightly denser than platinum, which has a density of approximately 21.45 g/cm³. Both are among the densest metals. 
 Is iridium harder than platinum? 
 Pure iridium is hard and brittle. However, this does not directly indicate the hardness of a platinum-iridium alloy. Its properties depend on its composition and how it is processed. 
 Is there jewelry made of iridium? 
 Solid jewelry made of pure iridium is very rare. In jewelry manufacturing, iridium is primarily used as a component in certain platinum alloys. 
 What does “platinum-iridium” mean? 
 This refers to an alloy consisting primarily of platinum and containing iridium as an additional component. Well-known examples include Pt900, which contains about 10 percent iridium, and Pt950, which contains about 5 percent iridium. 
 Are platinum-iridium rings scratch-resistant? 
 No. Even these alloys will develop scratches and signs of wear when worn. How durable a ring actually is depends on the specific alloy, craftsmanship, design, and the stresses it is subjected to. 
 Does Wiesner use iridium for Mokume Gane? 
 No. Depending on the model, our Mokume Gane layered combinations consist of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, or platinum. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 Iridium is a fascinating precious metal, but it is not a typical material that a goldsmith would use to craft a ring. Its high density, enormous corrosion resistance, brittleness, and very high melting point make the pure metal extremely challenging to work with in traditional jewelry making. 
 Its true significance in jewelry lies in its role as a component of platinum alloys. In this context, iridium illustrates particularly well why one should never deduce the properties of a jewelry alloy solely from the properties of its individual components. 
 Anyone interested in platinum as a jewelry metal will find the information most relevant to practical use in our   guide to platinum  . You can find information on other metals and alloys in   the Precious Metals section of our guide  . 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-14T09:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <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.
                                        ]]>
            </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 · Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 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 deliberate patination process, the alloy—which initially appears rather unremarkable—can develop surfaces ranging from gray to brownish-gray. 
 Shibuichi is therefore often encountered in the context of historical Japanese metal art—and occasionally in connection with   Mokume Gane  . 
 It is important to make the distinction:  Shibuichi is an alloy. Mokume Gane is a metalworking technique—or rather, the patterned layered material produced by 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 tarnishing 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 allowed for highly nuanced 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 a necessary 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 metal 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 bands? 
 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 due to 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 multiple 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 about 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 approximately 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 bonded 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 an essential 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 comparatively simple alloy of copper and silver can develop a wide range of gray hues through its composition and targeted surface treatment. 
 Shibuichi is therefore interesting for understanding Mokume Gane, even though we do not 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  . 
                ]]>
            </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>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Recycled Gold – How Old Gold Is Turned Into High-Quality Jewelry 
  First published on September 19, 2023 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 11,  2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 Gold is virtually predestined for recycling. An old ring, a necklace that’s no longer worn, or a gold coin does not lose its gold content simply because it has already served a previous 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 heirloom gold.  With recycled gold, the focus is on recovering the precious metal. With   wedding rings made from heirloom gold or old gold  , on the other hand, the emotional connection to a specific piece of jewelry and its history can be the deciding 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 what 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 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 fine content, the alloy used, its composition, and professional craftsmanship are decisive for the final quality of the 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, it may contain solders, coatings, other metals, or components that are not suitable for the new application. 
 Therefore, if the goal is to produce a precisely defined material, 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 high purity. 
 For jewelry production, the recovered fine gold can then be realloyed 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 re-alloying, it is no longer possible to determine 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 request. An old wedding ring from the grandparents, a ring from the mother, or several pieces of jewelry from both families should not merely be offset against one another, 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 stamped 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 processing. 
 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 as well, 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 used 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 fused 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 assessed 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 original form and origin of the individual piece of jewelry no longer matter 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 delivered. 
 
 
 
 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 its craftsmanship, 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 necessarily. 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-rate 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, therefore, the responsible use of the existing material is of paramount 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 on gold, alloys, and fineness in our   guide section on precious metals  . 
                ]]>
            </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.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Rhodium – Properties, Rhodium Plating, and Use in Jewelry 
  First published on June 5, 2019 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 10,  2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 Many jewelry wearers come into contact with 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 virtually no 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 group 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 resistant to abrasion. 
 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. With daily wear, signs of wear will still occur, and the rhodium layer can wear off over time in areas subject to heavy use. 
 Rhodium and White Gold 
 Rhodium plating of 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 them:  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 gains 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 by a rhodium coating. 
 This clearly illustrates the purpose of rhodium in goldsmithing: It is not the actual material that shapes the piece, 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 coating wears off depends, among other things, on the type of jewelry being worn, the amount of mechanical stress on its surface, and the thickness and durability of the applied coating. 
 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, refurbished, and, if necessary, polished. A new rhodium coating can then be electroplated. 
 For rings with diamonds or complex designs, it’s important to assess beforehand which restoration method is technically feasible. 
 Is rhodium harder than gold or silver? 
 Rhodium is very hard in its deposited form. Electroplated rhodium layers can achieve hardness values 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 is, once again, the thinness of the plating. 
 In the event of a deep scratch, not only the rhodium coating but also the much thicker base material underneath 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 difficult and economically impractical. Its high melting point, mechanical properties, rarity, and price make it unsuitable for 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 a member of the platinum group of precious 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 rhodium coating can protect 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 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 makes jewelry neither indestructible nor 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">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            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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            </summary>
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                <![CDATA[
                 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 · Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 Shakudo—more precisely, Shakudō—is one of Japan’s traditional 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 patination process. 
 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 today in jewelry 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 to 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 traditional 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 characteristic 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 violet 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 very fine 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 in a Mokume Gane piece . Mokume Gane itself, on the other hand, 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, we combine, for example, 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 frequently 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 elaborate 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 day in and day out. 
 The characteristic appearance of shakudo relies heavily 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 ourselves. 
     
 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 patina treatment of the metal 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 part 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 rings from combinations of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, or platinum. The Mokume-Gane layered material is built up, welded, and then forged and patterned in our own goldsmith’s workshop. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Shakudo is particularly fascinating 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 rings 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">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            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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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
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                 Green Gold – a rare shade of gold between yellow and green 
  First published on June 10, 2024—comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 8,  2026· Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 At first glance, “green gold” sounds like an intensely green gold alloy. In practice, however, the color is much less spectacular: genuine green gold usually appears  yellowish-green, pale gold, or slightly olive-colored . A rich green, such as one might expect from a gemstone, does not occur in classic gold alloys. 
 The distinctive color effect is primarily created by a high proportion of silver in the gold alloy. Depending on the composition, other metals may be added, altering the color and technical properties. 
 In modern jewelry making, however, green gold plays only a minor role. It is more of an interesting niche phenomenon among the various   gold alloys and precious metals   than a typical material for wedding rings or everyday jewelry. 
 What is green gold? 
 Green gold is a  gold alloy with a slightly greenish-yellow hue . 
 Like yellow gold, rose gold, or white gold, green gold is not a distinct type of gold in itself. It is derived from fine gold, whose color is influenced by other alloying metals. 
 In the case of green gold,  silver  plays a particularly important role. When gold is alloyed with a relatively high percentage of silver, the intense golden yellow loses some of its warmth. The color shifts toward a lighter, cooler shade of yellow with a greenish sheen. 
 Contrary to what the name might suggest, however, it does not result in a vivid green. 
 Why does gold appear greenish when mixed with silver? 
 The color of a gold alloy results from the interaction of the metals it contains. 
 Fine gold has an intense, warm yellow hue. Silver, on the other hand, is very light in color. As the silver content in a gold alloy increases, the yellow becomes progressively lighter and cooler. 
 In certain compositions, this results in a color that our eyes perceive as  yellowish-green or greenish-gold . 
 Copper, on the other hand, has the opposite effect: it introduces warmer hues into a gold alloy, which become increasingly reddish as its proportion increases. Therefore, the color of gold alloys can be influenced across a wide range by the ratio of gold, silver, and copper. 
 Is green gold really green? 
 Only to a very limited extent. 
 Anyone expecting a clearly visible emerald or grass green based on the name will be disappointed by classic green gold. The color is more of a  light gold with a greenish or olive undertone . 
 How clearly this undertone is perceived also depends on the lighting, the surface, and the colors of the metals immediately adjacent to it. 
 Especially when placed next to rose gold or rich yellow gold, a greenish-yellow gold tone can stand out more clearly than in a piece of jewelry made exclusively of green gold. 
 What is the composition of green gold? 
 There is no single, standard formula for green gold. 
 A classic greenish gold alloy, for example, can consist of  750 parts gold and 250 parts silver . Variations with small amounts of copper are also possible. In 585 alloys, a correspondingly larger proportion of other metals must be used due to the lower gold content. 
 The exact color therefore depends on both the gold fineness and the type and amount of the other alloy components. 
 We explain in more detail what designations such as 585 or 750 mean in our guide   “What Do 585, 750, and 950 Mean?  ”. 
 Why was cadmium used in the past for greenish gold alloys? 
 Cadmium is sometimes found in historical recipes for colored gold alloys. It was used to enhance the greenish hue of certain gold-silver alloys. 
 However, such historical recipes do not serve as a model for today’s jewelry-making practices. Cadmium poses health risks, and modern jewelry alloys must comply with current legal limits for such substances. 
 When evaluating a piece of contemporary jewelry, it is therefore crucial to determine  which specific modern alloy was actually used  —not which formulas once existed for producing certain colors. 
 Is green gold soft? 
 A simple gold-silver alloy with a high silver content can be comparatively soft. However, this does not mean that every material labeled as “green gold” possesses the same mechanical properties. 
 As with all gold alloys, hardness, malleability, and workability are determined by the overall composition and the condition of the material. 
 Small amounts of other alloying elements can significantly alter the material’s properties. 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, one should therefore not infer the technical properties of green gold based solely on its color. 
 Why is green gold used so rarely for jewelry? 
 The main reason is surprisingly simple:  the color is less striking than the name suggests.  
 Yellow gold has a distinct, warm golden color; rose gold has a clearly recognizable reddish hue; and white gold has a light, nearly colorless appearance. In terms of color, green gold is much closer to yellow gold. 
 The difference is therefore often only apparent when the metals are compared side by side. 
 In addition, gold alloys with a very high silver content are not the ideal choice for every forging or design application. 
 In jewelry design, green gold is therefore used more specifically as a color nuance than as a universal material. 
 Green Gold and Mokume Gane 
 At first glance, green gold seems to be an excellent fit for   the Mokume Gane technique  . After all, Mokume Gane thrives on the interplay of different metal colors. 
 In practice, however, an additional greenish gold tone is not strictly necessary. What matters far more is that the precious metals used create a clearly recognizable contrast and are technically suitable for joint processing. 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, we therefore specifically use combinations of yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, or platinum for our Mokume Gane rings. The colors arise directly from the different layers of precious metals, which we weld together and then forge and shape. 
 A greenish appearance without any green gold 
 Our   Seraya   model   —Mokume Gane rings made of platinum and yellow gold—  demonstrates just how much the perception of a metal’s color depends on its interaction with other metals and on light. 
     
 Seraya is made of  950 platinum and 750 yellow gold  —in other words, it is explicitly not green gold. Nevertheless, when placed next to the cool, light platinum, the yellow gold can, depending on the lighting, appear slightly greener or cooler in places. 
 This is a good example of why the perceived color of a piece of jewelry does not depend solely on an alloy designation. Light, surface finish, neighboring metals, and reflections significantly influence the overall impression. 
 Green Gold, Yellow Gold, and Rose Gold Compared 
 
 
 
  Gold Color  
  Typical Color Effect  
  Main Color-Giving Elements  
 
 
 Yellow gold 
 Warm yellow 
 balanced interaction of the alloy metals, often silver and copper 
 
 
 Red gold 
 Warm to distinctly reddish 
 primarily copper 
 
 
 Green gold 
 light yellow to yellowish-green 
 high silver content 
 
 
 
 You can learn more about these two much more common shades of gold in our guides to   yellow gold   and   rose gold  . 
 Green Gold at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Material Type  
 Gold alloy 
 
 
  Color  
 light yellow to yellowish-green or slightly olive-colored 
 
 
  Primary colorant  
 Silver 
 
 
  Possible finenesses  
 e.g., 585 or 750 gold 
 
 
  A vivid green color?  
 No, classic green gold alloys appear only slightly greenish 
 
 
  Usage  
 Rare; usually used to create a unique shade or in multicolored jewelry designs 
 
 
  Use in Wiesner Mokume Gane  
 Not required; we create color contrasts using other proven precious metal combinations 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Green Gold 
 Is green gold real gold? 
 Yes. Green gold is a gold alloy. The actual gold content is determined by the respective fineness, such as 585 or 750. 
 Is green gold really green? 
 Not in the sense of a vivid green. Classic green gold usually appears light gold with a slight yellowish-green or olive undertone. 
 Which metal makes gold look greenish? 
 Mainly silver. A high silver content lightens the gold and can shift its color toward a slightly greenish-yellow hue. 
 Does green gold contain copper? 
 That depends on the specific alloy. A simple 750 green gold alloy, for example, may consist only of gold and silver. Other formulations contain small amounts of copper or other alloying elements to influence color and technical properties. 
 Is green gold toxic? 
 Green gold is not inherently toxic. Historically, however, there were alloys containing cadmium, which poses health risks. For modern jewelry, therefore, the actual alloy composition and compliance with applicable legal requirements must be considered. 
 Why is green gold so rare? 
 The color difference compared to yellow gold is relatively small. Other gold colors, such as rose gold and white gold, create much stronger visual contrasts and have therefore become much more widely established in jewelry. 
 Is green gold suitable for wedding rings? 
 In principle, suitable green gold alloys can be used to make jewelry. For wedding rings worn continuously, however, the specific technical properties of the alloy are always the deciding factor. The unique color alone does not automatically make an alloy the ideal material for wedding rings. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Green gold is interesting from a metallurgical standpoint, but its name often gives rise to misconceptions. It is not bright green gold, but rather a gold alloy with a rather subtle yellowish-green hue. 
 The color effect is primarily created by silver. Depending on the alloy composition, other metals can alter the color and technical properties. 
 We do not require green gold for our own Mokume-Gane pieces. We achieve more distinct yet very harmonious color contrasts using tried-and-true combinations of yellow gold, rose gold, silver, palladium, and platinum. 
 For more information on gold colors, alloys, and jewelry metals, please visit our   guide section on precious metals  . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-08T10:15:00+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">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            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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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 White Gold – Properties, Alloys, and Uses in Jewelry 
  First published on June 13, 2024 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 5,  2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 Today, white gold is one of the most important gold alloys in jewelry making. Its light, understated hue is particularly popular for wedding bands, engagement rings, and diamond jewelry. 
 However, white gold is not a naturally white form of gold.  Pure gold is yellow.  The light hue is created by alloying gold with other metals, which tone down its original yellow color. 
 Depending on its composition, white gold can appear more silvery, gray, slightly warm, or nearly pure white. In addition, many white gold jewelry pieces are rhodium-plated. This gives the surface a very light, cool hue. 
 What is white gold? 
 White gold is a  gold alloy . This means that fine gold is combined with other metals to specifically alter the material’s color and technical properties. 
 Which metals are added depends on the specific alloy formula. For example, palladium or nickel can be used to lighten the gold. Silver, copper, and other alloy components may also be included, depending on the formula. 
 Therefore, there is no such thing as “the one and only white gold.” Two white gold alloys with the same gold fineness can differ significantly in color, hardness, workability, and price. 
 Why isn’t white gold really white? 
 The starting point for every white gold alloy is gold—and gold naturally has an intense yellow hue. 
 The added metals lighten this hue. However, this does not necessarily result in a completely neutral white gold alloy. Many white gold alloys have a slightly gray, yellowish-gray, or warm undertone when untreated. 
 This is not a quality defect, but rather a result of the alloy’s composition. 
 Therefore, when someone sees a very light, almost mirror-like white piece of jewelry, they’re often not looking at the actual color of the white gold alloy, but rather an additional  layer of rhodium . 
 585 and 750 white gold—what do the numbers mean? 
 As with other gold alloys, the number indicates the percentage of fine gold. 
 
  585 white gold:  585 out of 1,000 parts by weight, or 58.5 percent, consist of fine gold. 
  750 white gold:  750 out of 1,000 parts by weight, or 75 percent, consist of fine gold. 
 
 The remaining portion consists of the metals that, together with the gold, form the desired alloy. 
 A higher gold content does not automatically mean that a piece of jewelry is technically better suited for every purpose. The properties always depend on the  overall composition of the alloy and how it is crafted . 
 You can find more information about the different finenesses in our guide   “What Do 585, 750, and 950 Mean?”   
 Palladium White Gold and Nickel White Gold 
 An important distinction regarding white gold concerns the metals used to lighten the yellow color of the gold. 
  Palladium  is a precious metal from the platinum group and is very well suited for the production of high-quality white gold alloys. Palladium-based white gold typically has a grayish-white undertone. 
 Another option is  nickel . Nickel can lighten gold very effectively while also increasing the alloy’s hardness. However, nickel can cause allergic skin reactions in people who are sensitive to it. 
 Nickel is not generally prohibited in jewelry within the European Union. However, for jewelry that comes into prolonged or continuous contact with the skin—such as rings—there are legally established limits on nickel release. 
 Anyone who already knows they have a nickel allergy should therefore ask about the specific alloy when purchasing a piece of white gold jewelry. 
 What does rhodium plating mean for white gold? 
 Many pieces of white gold jewelry are  rhodium-plated  after they are finished. In this process, a very thin layer of rhodium is applied to the surface. 
 Rhodium belongs to the group of platinum metals and has a very bright, silvery-white color. Rhodium plating therefore gives white gold the particularly cool and bright hue that many people associate with white gold. 
 However, it’s important to note:  Rhodium plating is a surface coating.  It is not the actual white gold alloy. 
 Does the rhodium plating wear off? 
 Yes. A rhodium coating can wear off over time with wear. 
 How quickly this happens depends largely on the piece of jewelry and how it is worn. For example, a ring worn daily is subjected to significantly more mechanical stress than a pendant. 
 If the rhodium coating becomes thinner in areas subject to heavy wear, the actual color of the underlying white gold alloy will reappear there. 
 This does not mean that the white gold has deteriorated. It is simply normal wear and tear on the surface coating. 
 The rhodium plating can be renewed through professional restoration of the piece of jewelry. 
 Does white gold always have to be rhodium-plated? 
 No. White gold does not necessarily have to be rhodium-plated. 
 Whether rhodium plating is advisable or desired depends on the alloy used and the desired appearance. 
 A good white gold alloy already has a light color of its own. Without rhodium plating, it usually appears slightly softer and grayer than a rhodium-plated surface. 
 Especially with handcrafted jewelry, this more natural white gold tone can certainly have its own charm. 
 White gold or platinum—what’s the difference? 
 At first glance, white gold and platinum look similar, but metallurgically they are completely different materials. 
  White gold is a gold alloy.  Platinum, on the other hand, is a precious metal in its own right. 
 Their weight also differs significantly. Platinum has a very high density and, for an otherwise comparable ring, feels correspondingly heavier. 
 Another difference lies in the color. Platinum naturally has a light gray-white hue. White gold, on the other hand, is created by alloying gold with lightening metals and is often rhodium-plated as well. 
 Which material is more suitable depends on the design, weight, comfort, alloy, and personal taste. 
 You can find detailed information about platinum in our   guide to platinum as a jewelry metal .  
 White gold or silver? 
 Silver and white gold can also look similar. However, the composition of the materials differs fundamentally. 
 Silver is a precious metal in its own right and is used in jewelry, for example, as 925 sterling silver. White gold, on the other hand, consists largely of gold. 
 Another practical difference: Silver can visibly tarnish due to reactions on its surface. High-quality white gold alloys do not exhibit this typical dark tarnish seen in silver. 
 You can find more on this topic in our  guide to silver as a jewelry metal . 
 Is white gold harder than yellow gold? 
 There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. When it comes to jewelry, we’re not comparing pure metals, but rather alloys with different compositions. 
 Certain white gold alloys can indeed be harder than certain yellow gold alloys. However, no general rule can be derived from this. 
 Fineness, alloy components, workmanship, and the condition of the material significantly influence hardness and malleability. 
 Therefore, the statement “white gold is harder than yellow gold” is overly simplified without specifying the exact alloy. 
 Why is white gold particularly well-suited for diamonds? 
 The light and understated color of white gold harmonizes very well with colorless diamonds. 
 This is particularly interesting when it comes to settings: The light-colored metal draws little visual attention away from the stone and blends harmoniously with a diamond’s bright appearance. 
 That is why white gold has been particularly popular for many decades, especially for   engagement rings  , solitaire rings, and diamond-set wedding bands. 
 White Gold for Wedding Bands 
 White gold is also a tried-and-true material for   wedding bands  . 
 Its neutral hue complements a wide variety of ring designs and can be combined with polished, matte, or textured finishes. 
 In our selection, for example, you’ll find   white gold wedding bands   in various alloys and designs. 
 One example is this pair of Gerstner wedding rings with a textured surface and a diamond: 
       
 With this model, you can choose between different white gold finenesses. This clearly illustrates that “white gold” alone is not a complete description of the material. Fineness, alloy, construction, and finish are all factors to consider when selecting a ring. 
 White Gold in the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, white gold is a versatile material, but by no means always identical. 
 Depending on the alloy, white gold can behave differently during rolling, forging, soldering, polishing, and other processing steps. That’s why it’s important to know the specific alloy and tailor the craftsmanship accordingly. 
 This also plays a role in repairs or alterations. A piece of jewelry should therefore not be classified as “white gold” solely based on its light color. 
 White Gold and Mokume Gane 
 In Mokume Gane, the effect of a piece of jewelry arises from the interplay of different metal colors and layers. 
 Light-colored precious metals or light-colored alloys can create an attractive contrast to yellow gold, rose gold, or other warm metal colors. 
 However, which alloys can be combined is a technical question and depends, among other things, on the properties of the metals used and the manufacturing process. 
 Our   Mokume Gane rings   showcase what such multicolored metal structures look like in our workshop. 
 White Gold at a Glance 
 
 
 
  Material Type  
 Gold Alloy 
 
 
  Base color  
 Light gray to silvery, depending on the alloy 
 
 
  Common finenesses  
 585 and 750 
 
 
  Brightening alloying metals  
 e.g., palladium or nickel 
 
 
  Rhodium plating  
 common, but not strictly required 
 
 
  Typical uses  
 Wedding bands, engagement rings, diamond jewelry, pendants, and earrings 
 
 
  Special feature  
 A light-colored gold alloy with technical properties that vary depending on the formula 
 
 
 
 Frequently Asked Questions About White Gold 
 Is white gold real gold? 
 Yes. White gold is a genuine gold alloy. In 585 white gold, 58.5 percent of the weight consists of fine gold; in 750 white gold, 75 percent of the weight consists of fine gold. 
 Why is white gold white, even though gold is yellow? 
 Metals are added to the gold that significantly lighten its yellow hue. Depending on the alloy, this results in a gray to silvery-white hue. An additional rhodium plating can make the surface appear even lighter. 
 Does white gold turn yellow over time? 
 White gold itself does not revert to yellow gold. However, with rhodium-plated jewelry, the rhodium layer can wear off. When this happens, the underlying, usually slightly warmer hue of the actual white gold alloy becomes visible. 
 Does white gold always have to be rhodium-plated? 
 No. Rhodium plating is an additional surface treatment and not a requirement for an alloy to be classified as white gold. 
 Can white gold contain nickel? 
 Yes, there are white gold alloys that contain nickel. There are also white gold alloys in which, for example, palladium is used to lighten the color. If you have a known nickel allergy, you should check the specific alloy composition before purchasing. 
 Does white gold tarnish? 
 White gold does not exhibit the typical dark tarnish seen in silver. Changes in appearance in worn jewelry are primarily caused by signs of wear and, in some cases, by the wear away of the rhodium plating. 
 Is white gold suitable for wedding rings? 
 Yes. Suitable white gold alloys have been used for wedding rings for many decades. Which alloy is best depends on the design, desired fineness, finish, and personal preferences. 
 Our Conclusion from the Goldsmiths 
 White gold is much more than just “white gold.” Behind its light color lie different alloy formulations, fineness levels, and surface treatments. 
 That is precisely why it’s worth paying attention to more than just the label “white gold” when making a purchase. Whether 585 or 750, a palladium- or nickel-containing alloy, rhodium-plated or natural in color: these differences influence the appearance, craftsmanship, and long-term performance of a piece of jewelry. 
 For wedding bands, engagement rings, and diamond jewelry, however, white gold remains a particularly versatile material. Its calm, light color pairs well with both classic and modern jewelry designs. 
 You can find more basic information in our   guide to precious metals and 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 light-colored precious metal so spe...
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                 Platinum – Properties, Uses, and Benefits as a Jewelry Metal 
  First published on June 12, 2024 – comprehensively revised and technically updated on September 4,  2026 · Illustrations used: AI-generated    
 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 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 of this 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 is one of 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 resistant to corrosion. Unlike some white gold alloys, its light color does not need to be created by applying 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. That’s why, when comparing pieces of jewelry, you 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 greater 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”  —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 daily, such as  wedding bands and engagement rings . 
 
  Naturally bright color:  Platinum has a naturally silvery-white hue. 
  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 beautifully 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 clarifying a common misconception:  Platinum does get scratched.  A platinum ring worn daily will not remain permanently mirror-polished. 
 What matters more is how the material behaves under wear and tear. Due to many fine signs of wear, the surface of a platinum ring changes over time 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 history.  
 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, it is not possible to reliably determine which specific piece of jewelry is more scratch-resistant based solely on the terms “platinum” or “gold.” 
 What’s more important in practice is this: A suitable platinum alloy can be an excellent material for a ring worn daily—just as a high-quality gold alloy can be. 
 Why is platinum jewelry often expensive? 
 Here, it is important to 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 cheaper. 
 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 price of the precious metal, 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 such thing as the “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 purity and a 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 and Engagement Rings 
 Especially with   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 finishes open up a wide range of design possibilities. 
 It’s not just the precious metal itself that matters. Ring width, profile, material thickness, surface 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 fused 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 design effect. 
 You can find more handcrafted material combinations in our   Mokume Gane rings  . 
 Platinum in the Goldsmith’s Workshop 
 Platinum requires experience and a working method 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 is how the precious metal is used for 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 features  
 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 the resulting patina. 
 Is platinum heavier than gold? 
 Pure platinum, at about 21.5 g/cm³, is denser than fine gold, which is about 19.3 g/cm³. For the same shape and volume, a piece made of pure platinum is therefore heavier. For finished jewelry, the exact difference also depends on the specific alloy. 
 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 from daily use. Over time, this results in a characteristic patina. If necessary, a piece of platinum 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 fascinates less because of its striking color than because of 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 tangible weight and its 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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                 Palladium as a Jewelry Metal: Properties, Alloys, and Uses 
   · Illustrations used: AI-generated   
 Palladium possesses a rather understated elegance. Its natural color ranges from light silver to a subtle gray. This gives the precious metal a discreet and modern appearance without losing its unique charm. 
 For us as goldsmiths, however, palladium is interesting for more than just its color. It belongs to the platinum group of metals, is significantly lighter than platinum, and can be used both as a standalone jewelry metal and as a component in various precious metal alloys. 
 Palladium plays a very special role in our Mokume-Gane work. There, its cool hue combines with silver or warm gold alloys to create fine lines, swirls, and grain patterns that are unique to each pair of rings. 
 What is palladium? 
 Palladium is a chemical element with the symbol Pd and atomic number 46. Together with platinum, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium, it belongs to the group of platinum group metals. 
 The pure metal has a natural silvery-white to slightly gray color. Unlike a surface that has been rhodium-plated afterward, this light color is not the result of a coating but is inherent to the metal itself. 
 With a density of about 12.0 g/cm³, palladium is significantly lighter than platinum. Its melting point is approximately 1,555 °C. The difference in weight can be particularly noticeable in larger or wider pieces of jewelry. 
 The Discovery of Palladium 
 Palladium was discovered in the early 19th century by the English chemist William Hyde Wollaston. His discovery was made public in 1803. The metal was named after Pallas, a celestial body that had been discovered shortly before. 
 This makes palladium one of the precious metals whose distinct identity was recognized relatively late. Today, we encounter the metal in a wide variety of technical fields—but for us, its use as a jewelry and alloy metal is the main focus. 
 What are the properties of palladium? 
 Palladium combines several properties that make it particularly interesting for jewelry making: 
 
  Naturally light color:  Palladium has a naturally silvery-white to slightly gray hue. 
  High corrosion resistance:  This precious metal is highly resistant to many environmental influences. 
  Significantly lighter than platinum:  Due to its lower density, a piece of jewelry made of palladium with comparable dimensions can be noticeably lighter. 
  Easily alloyed:  Palladium is used both in pure palladium alloys and as a component of other precious metal alloys. 
 Work hardening:  Mechanical deformation can increase the material’s strength—a property that also plays a role in artisanal crafting processes. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 However, the actual hardness or durability of a finished piece of jewelry cannot be determined by the name of the precious metal alone. The specific alloy, the fineness, the design of the piece, and its craftsmanship are always decisive factors. 
 Palladium 500 and Other Palladium Alloys 
 Like many precious metals, palladium used in jewelry is not necessarily processed in its pure form. By combining it with other metals, properties such as strength, workability, and behavior during forging can be specifically influenced. 
 The number in a palladium alloy indicates its fineness. In Palladium 500, 500 out of 1,000 parts by weight consist of palladium. This corresponds to a palladium content of 50 percent. 
 From a goldsmith’s perspective, it is important to note that the highest possible fineness does not automatically mean that an alloy is better suited for every piece of jewelry. Rather, the key factor is how the material, design, and subsequent stress conditions work together. 
 Palladium or Platinum—What’s the Difference? 
 Palladium and platinum both belong to the group of platinum metals and have a naturally light metallic color. At first glance, they may therefore appear similar. However, significant differences become apparent when worn and during processing. 
 The weight is particularly noticeable. Palladium has a density of about 12.0 g/cm³, while platinum is significantly denser. A piece of jewelry made of palladium of the same size can therefore be considerably lighter than a corresponding piece made of platinum. 
 Palladium and platinum are also not simply interchangeable in terms of alloy composition, craftsmanship, and surface finish. Which of the two precious metals is better suited for a piece of jewelry therefore does not depend solely on their similar color. 
 Palladium and white gold are not the same thing 
 Because of their light appearance, palladium and white gold are occasionally confused with one another. In terms of material, however, they are completely different. 
 Palladium is a distinct chemical element. White gold, on the other hand, is a gold alloy. The original yellow color of gold is lightened by adding other metals. Palladium can be used as a component in these alloys. 
 Depending on the white gold alloy and the desired finish, white gold can also be rhodium-plated. Palladium, on the other hand, naturally possesses its own light, slightly gray metallic color. 
 Nickel in Jewelry Alloys—What’s the Truth? 
 It’s worth making a clear distinction on this topic. Nickel is not generally banned as a component of jewelry alloys within the European Union. Rather, the law limits the amount of nickel that jewelry is permitted to release during direct and prolonged skin contact. 
 For this reason, appropriately suitable alloy systems play an important role in modern jewelry manufacturing. Palladium, for example, can be used to lighten gold alloys and is thus a possible component of white gold. 
 However, in cases of known metal allergies, the specific alloy used in a piece of jewelry should always be considered. A blanket statement that a particular precious metal or any alloy made from it is fundamentally hypoallergenic would be too simplistic. 
 Does palladium tarnish? 
 Palladium has high corrosion resistance and does not develop the dark tarnish typical of silver. 
 However, this does not mean that a piece of palladium jewelry will still look exactly the same after many years as it did on the first day. Especially with rings worn daily, small scratches, changes in luster, and a unique patina of wear develop over time. 
 In a sense, these marks tell the story of a piece of jewelry’s everyday life. However, they are distinct from the chemical surface discoloration associated with the tarnishing of silver. 
 Palladium in Mokume Gane 
 For us as goldsmiths, palladium reveals one of its most beautiful aspects when combined with other precious metals. In the Mokume Gane technique, its light to gray hue brings calm to the grain pattern while also creating a subtle contrast to silver or warm gold tones. 
 We produce the Mokume Gane layered material required for this ourselves in our goldsmith’s workshop. We weld the different precious metal layers together and then forge and further refine them. It is only during this artisanal process that the characteristic grain develops from the layers of metal that were initially stacked on top of one another. 
 Lines begin to flow, individual metal surfaces emerge, and others recede. For us, this is precisely what makes this technique so appealing: We can influence the formation of the structure—yet it cannot be replicated exactly. Each piece develops its own character. 
       
 A particularly delicate interplay of colors emerges when combining palladium and silver. Both precious metals fall within a light color palette yet possess enough distinct nuances to allow the individual layers to stand out from one another within the grain pattern. 
 In our   Faro Mokume Gane rings  , for example, we combine 500 palladium and 925 silver. The fine lines and characteristic star patterns emerge from the layered material that we weld together and then finish. 
 The effect of palladium also changes significantly when combined with yellow or red gold. Here, its cool gray tone meets warm golden hues. Depending on the grain pattern and the angle of the light, either the golden tones or the light palladium lines may stand out more prominently. 
 You’ll find additional material combinations and different grain patterns in our   Mokume Gane rings  . 
 Palladium from the Perspective of Our Goldsmith Workshop 
 A precious metal cannot be judged solely on the basis of tabular values. For us, its character is revealed above all when we work with it: during sawing, forging, shaping, joining, and the final surface finishing. 
 With Mokume Gane in particular, the interplay of the different precious metals is crucial. We fuse the individual layers ourselves in our workshop to create the Mokume Gane layered material. The alloys used must therefore not only harmonize in color but also be compatible with one another for the subsequent crafting process. 
 Palladium is particularly appealing to us because its subtle, light color allows other precious metals to shine. When paired with silver, it creates delicate tone-on-tone contrasts; when paired with yellow or red gold, however, palladium can form a distinctly visible, cool complementary color. 
 How do you care for palladium jewelry? 
 Palladium jewelry does not require complicated care in everyday life. However, a few simple steps can help keep its surface beautiful for as long as possible: 
 
  Remove light dirt:  Lukewarm water, a mild soap solution, and a soft cloth are often sufficient. 
  Avoid abrasive cleaners:  Highly abrasive cleaning agents can alter polished or intentionally matte finishes. 
  Avoid heavy wear and tear:  It’s best to remove rings when performing rough manual labor or when coming into contact with harsh chemicals. 
  Have it professionally refinished:  Depending on the surface, signs of wear can be refinished later at a goldsmith’s workshop. 
 
 However, small scratches and changes to the surface cannot be completely avoided on a ring worn daily. Over time, these develop into the piece’s unique patina. 
 Who might be interested in palladium as a jewelry metal? 
 Palladium is particularly appealing to people who prefer a naturally light-colored precious metal and are looking for a lighter alternative to platinum. 
 Its color does not dominate the design. It is precisely this understated quality that can be very appealing in modern wedding rings and can be combined with both diamonds and other precious metals. 
 Nevertheless, the decision should not be made based solely on the name of the metal. The fineness and alloy, ring width, profile, finish, and future wear and tear all play a significant role in determining how a piece of jewelry wears and how it evolves over the years. 
 That’s why, especially with wedding rings, we always consider the entire piece of jewelry—not just the precious metal. 
 Frequently Asked Questions About Palladium 
 Is palladium a precious metal? 
 Yes. Palladium is a distinct chemical element with the symbol Pd and atomic number 46. It belongs to the platinum group of metals. 
 Is palladium the same as platinum? 
 No. Although palladium and platinum both belong to the platinum group and have a light metallic color, they are different chemical elements. A particularly clear difference lies in their density: palladium is significantly lighter than platinum. 
 Is palladium the same as white gold? 
 No. Palladium is a distinct precious metal. White gold, on the other hand, is a gold alloy. However, palladium can be used as a component in white gold alloys and helps lighten the color of the gold. 
 Does palladium tarnish like silver? 
 Palladium has high corrosion resistance and does not exhibit the typical dark tarnish seen in silver. Scratches, changes in luster, and other signs of wear may still occur on palladium jewelry when worn. 
 What does “palladium 500” mean? 
 Palladium 500 refers to an alloy with a palladium content of 500 parts per thousand, or 50 percent. The other components of the alloy influence, among other things, its workability and mechanical properties. 
 Is palladium suitable for wedding rings? 
 Yes, palladium can be used for wedding rings. The specific alloy and the ring’s design are the decisive factors. In our goldsmith’s workshop, we use palladium, among other things, for our custom-made Mokume-Gane material combinations. 
 Conclusion: Palladium—Subtle in Color, Exciting in Craftsmanship 
 Palladium doesn’t have to be flashy to give a piece of jewelry a special character. Its natural silvery-gray color appears modern and understated, while at the same time, this precious metal offers interesting possibilities for various jewelry and alloy designs. 
 We are particularly fascinated by palladium when it is combined with other precious metals. In Mokume Gane, the layers we weld ourselves give rise to fine lines, flowing structures, and ever-changing grain patterns. When paired with silver, palladium appears harmonious and nuanced; when combined with warm gold tones, however, it creates a significantly more striking interplay of colors. 
 In this way, a precious metal that initially appears rather understated becomes an integral part of a surface that can never be replicated exactly a second time. 
 For more information on gold, silver, platinum, and other jewelry metals, please visit our   guide section on precious metals .  
  Originally published on June 11, 2024; comprehensively revised on September 3, 2026.  
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                            <updated>2026-09-03T09:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Mokume Gane – History, Masters, and Key References</title>
            <id>https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/mokume-gane-history-masters-and-key-references</id>
            <link href="https://www.wiesner-schmuck.de/en/wiesner-advisor-workshop/precious-metals/mokume-gane-history-masters-and-key-references"/>
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                                            Mokume Gane originated in Japan centuries ago and was rediscovered internationally in the 20th century. We highlight key pioneers, goldsmiths, and specialized sources who have contributed to our current understanding of this extraordinary metalworking technique.
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                 Mokume Gane – From Japan to Modern Goldsmithing 
 Today, Mokume Gane is primarily associated with extraordinary rings and jewelry. However, the roots of this metalworking technique stretch back several centuries. Its development traces back from Japanese metalcraft of the Edo period, through a rediscovery and intensive research in the 20th century, to today’s goldsmiths, who produce Mokume Gane using modern furnaces and precisely controlled processes. 
 There is no single person to whom today’s technique is solely attributable. Several generations of metal artisans, researchers, and goldsmiths have contributed to preserving historical knowledge, refining production methods, and making Mokume Gane known internationally. 
 On this page, we present some of the names and specialized sources that are particularly relevant to understanding this development. 
 Denbei Shōami – The Japanese Origins 
 The Japanese metalworker  Denbei Shōami , who worked in what is now Akita Prefecture during the 17th and early 18th centuries, is considered an early key figure and founder of Mokume Gane. 
 Initially, his work was not related to jewelry or wedding rings. In Japan, the artistic design of sword components was highly valued. Metalworkers used various metals and alloys to achieve extraordinary patterns and color effects through layering, working, and patination. 
 Denbei Shōami is credited with works in which, among other materials, gold, silver, copper, and the traditional Japanese alloy shakudō were combined. The resulting structures resembled the grain of wood. 
 This appearance eventually gave rise to the term  “Mokume Gane ,” which literally means “wood grain in metal.” 
 From Traditional Craftsmanship to an Almost Forgotten Technique 
 For a long time, Mokume Gane remained closely tied to the highly specialized Japanese metalworking craft. Knowledge was traditionally passed down within workshops and from master to apprentice. 
 As Japanese society underwent changes in the 19th century, the significance of the traditional sword also shifted. Consequently, many of the highly developed techniques for crafting and decorating sword components lost their original purpose. 
 However, Mokume Gane did not disappear entirely. Japanese metal artists preserved and further developed the technique. 
 Hiroko Sato and Eugene Michael Pijanowski 
  Hiroko Sato Pijanowski and Eugene Michael Pijanowski  have played a special role in the modern spread of Mokume Gane outside Japan. 
 In 1970, the two saw a Mokume Gane vessel by the metal artist Gyokumei Shindo at an exhibition of traditional Japanese crafts in Tokyo. What struck the Pijanowskis in particular was that such a heavily deformed vessel had been created from a permanently bonded, multilayered metal material. 
 They subsequently immersed themselves in the traditional techniques and were in contact with Japanese metal artists such as Gyokumei Shindo, Masahisa Yagihara, and Norio Tamagawa, among others. 
 After returning to the U.S., Hiroko and Eugene Pijanowski made significant contributions to spreading knowledge about  diffusion-welded mokume gane . They published scholarly articles, held workshops, and participated in research on suitable metal combinations and manufacturing processes. 
 As a result, mokume gane became increasingly accessible to Western goldsmiths and metal artists as well. 
 The Modern Development of Mokume Gane 
 In the decades that followed, the technique underwent intensive further development. Various workshops developed their own methods for assembling, joining, and further processing the metal blocks. 
 An important development was the use of bolted pressure plates, which allowed the individual metal layers to be held together in a controlled manner during the bonding process. At the same time, modern furnaces and electronic temperature controls improved the reproducibility of the processes. 
 The materials used also changed. In addition to traditional Japanese metal combinations, precious metals and gold alloys of various colors were increasingly employed. 
 As a result, Mokume Gane evolved from a historical Japanese metalworking technique into a material that is used today by specialized goldsmiths and metal artists around the world. 
 James Binnion – Mokume Gane in an Electrically Controlled Furnace 
 Among the internationally renowned specialists is the American metal artist  James Binnion . 
 His work and publications focus, among other things, on the production of Mokume Gane in electrically heated and precisely controlled furnaces. Precise temperature control allows for extended holding times and thus controlled diffusion processes between the individual metal layers. 
 His experiences were also incorporated into the reference book  *Mokume Gane: A Comprehensive Study*  by Steven Midgett. 
 Robert Coogan – Mokume Gane from the Forge 
  Robert Coogan , on the other hand, represents a different modern production method. He worked with gas-fired forge furnaces and further developed the production of larger Mokume Gane blocks. 
 Coogan learned the basics of the technique in the late 1970s from Eugene and Hiroko Pijanowski. His work clearly demonstrates that different technical approaches can lead to a permanently bonded Mokume Gane material. 
 This is also important for understanding Mokume Gane: there is no single, universally applicable manufacturing process. Metal combinations, temperature control, pressure, and available workshop equipment all influence the specific method used. 
 Steven Midgett – Mokume Gane Comprehensively Documented 
 One of the most interesting contemporary authors on the subject is the American goldsmith  Steven Midgett . Under the name Steven Jacob, his workshop has been intensively engaged in creating Mokume-Gane jewelry since 1989. 
 Midgett published  *Mokume Gane: A Comprehensive Study* , an extensive reference book on the history, metallurgy, and practical production of Mokume Gane. 
 It is particularly interesting that the work is now available  online in its entirety and free of charge . It contains chapters on the history of the technique, suitable metals, metallurgical fundamentals, preparation of the layered block, various joining methods, furnaces and tools, as well as the development of the actual Mokume Gane patterns. 
 In addition, the book features contributions and insights from other internationally renowned Mokume Gane specialists, including James Binnion, Robert Coogan, Hiroko Sato, and Eugene Michael Pijanowski. 
 For goldsmiths, metal artists, and anyone who wishes to delve deeper into the technical aspects of Mokume Gane, this collection is an exceptionally comprehensive English-language reference source. 
 The complete work is freely available on Steven Jacob’s website: 
   Steven Midgett: Mokume Gane – A Comprehensive Study   
 Historical Knowledge and Modern Workshop Practice 
 The history of Mokume Gane beautifully illustrates how traditional craftsmanship can continue to evolve. The fundamental idea—permanently fusing metals of different colors to create a visible grain pattern—dates back centuries. 
 The technical possibilities, however, have changed significantly. Modern temperature controls, precisely prepared metal alloys, and controlled workflows now enable a level of process reliability that was not available to historical metalworkers in this form. 
 Nevertheless, Mokume Gane remains a true goldsmithing craft. After all, the finished metal block is only the beginning. The actual appearance is created through forging, rolling, shaping, carving, and the experience of the artisan working the material. 
 How We Produce Mokume Gane Today 
 In our goldsmith’s workshop, too, we produce our own Mokume Gane material. Different sheets of precious metal are prepared, assembled into a layered block, and permanently bonded together through  diffusion welding . 
 The resulting metal composite is then further forged, rolled, and patterned in a controlled manner. Only through this process do the lines, waves, and structures emerge that will later be visible on the finished piece of jewelry. 
 We explain in detail how this process works—and why we don’t simply “fold” Mokume Gane—in our article   “Mokume Gane—The Art of the Masters  .” 
 From the Mokume Gane Block to a Seamless Ring 
 For us, our exploration of Mokume Gane doesn’t end with the creation of the patterned material. What matters most is what is ultimately created from it. 
 Our Mokume Gane wedding rings are crafted  seamlessly . This ensures there is no seam where the continuous grain pattern is interrupted. The pattern can flow uninterrupted all the way around the ring. 
 We particularly appreciate the symbolism associated with this in wedding rings: the closed ring with no beginning and no end represents a lasting bond—and in a seamless ring, this concept is also visibly reflected in the craftsmanship. 
 Learn more about our manufacturing process under   SEAMLESS—our special technique for Mokume-Gane rings  . 
 Mokume Gane Today 
 What began as a specialized Japanese metalworking technique has since evolved into an international form of sophisticated metal design. Nevertheless, Mokume Gane remains a decorative style that cannot be reproduced industrially at will. 
 Material selection, the creation of the layered block, temperature control, pattern development, and shaping are all directly intertwined. At the same time, each metal block being worked develops its own unique structure. 
 For us, this is precisely what makes this technique so fascinating: centuries-old knowledge meets modern metallurgy and the goldsmith’s unique artistic touch. 
 You’ll find a selection of our various patterns and precious metal combinations in our   Mokume Gane rings and wedding bands  . 
 Further Resources on Mokume Gane 
 Those who wish to delve deeper into the history and technique will find extensive material, particularly in the works of the goldsmiths and metal artists mentioned above. A particularly comprehensive, freely accessible source is: 
  Steven Midgett:   Mokume Gane: A Comprehensive Study    Read the complete English-language reference book online   
 In addition to Midgett’s own contributions, the book also includes expertise and contributions from James Binnion, Robert Coogan, Hiroko Sato, and Eugene Michael Pijanowski, thereby combining historical research with various practical manufacturing techniques. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-02T21:15:00+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">
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                                            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 
   · Illustrations used: AI-generated   
 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 and the 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 in tone, while copper adds a warmer to slightly reddish hue to the alloy. 
 If you’d like to first learn 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 shade. 
 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, the design, material thickness, 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 the typical color of yellow gold come about? 
 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 natural 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 in 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 recognizable as gold and can be combined with both simple ring shapes and striking finishes, diamonds, and other precious metals. You’ll find a selection   of   different designs in our   Gerstner yellow gold wedding bands  . 
     
 One example of this is the   use of yellow gold in wedding bands   alongside the lighter   precious metal, platinum  . The warm yellow gold tone can be used to great creative effect, especially in multicolored and patterned rings. 
 Yellow Gold and Diamonds 
 Diamonds can create a striking 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 them. 
 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 one another 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 typical yellow color. The hue arises directly from the alloy itself. 
 Nevertheless, the surface of a piece of jewelry does change over time due to wear. Fine scratches, dulling, 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 soft 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 advisable to have the settings and the overall condition of the piece checked occasionally at a jeweler’s workshop. 
 Is 750 yellow gold better than 585 yellow gold? 
 Not across the board. 750 yellow gold has a higher gold content and usually a particularly rich golden character. 585 yellow gold contains a correspondingly higher proportion of alloy components and, depending on its composition, may have different color and finishing properties. 
 Which alloy is a better fit depends on the piece of jewelry and your personal preferences. For wedding rings, factors such as ring width, material thickness, 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 specific alloying metals.  Red and rose gold  derive their characteristic hues 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 carefully 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, and even multicolored combinations and Mokume Gane. 
 From our perspective as goldsmiths, therefore, the number 585 or 750 alone is not the decisive 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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                            <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">
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                                            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 Uses in Jewelry 
   · Illustrations used: AI-generated   
 Gold is one of the best-known and most traditional 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 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 out of 1,000 parts by weight of gold . Even more highly refined gold can be designated, for example, as 999.9. 
 Gold has the chemical symbol  Au  and is characterized by its distinctive yellow color and very high malleability. From a goldsmith’s perspective, this very malleability is both a blessing and a curse: fine gold is exceptionally easy 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 karat thus corresponds 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, equivalent 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 are not always ideal for a ring worn every day. 
 In everyday life, a ring is constantly coming into contact with other objects and surfaces. A very soft material would develop scratches, dents, and deformations relatively quickly under these conditions. 
 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 working 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 finish 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 is actually 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 value but also the color and workability. Therefore, different alloys may be appropriate for a ring, pendant, or other piece of jewelry. 
 The number alone, therefore, does not provide a complete assessment 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 alloy composition, 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 present—but not  the  alloy’s  color or specific properties . 
 For us in the workshop, therefore, the entire alloy is always relevant. Especially with custom-made jewelry, the choice of material 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 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-karat 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 of jewelry using lukewarm water, a mild soap solution, and a soft cloth. 
 
  Avoid scratches:  Store jewelry items 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 use, it is precisely this combination of gold content, design possibilities, and tailored material properties that is most appealing. 
 Therefore, the choice of a jewelry metal should not be based solely on the highest number on the hallmark. The decisive factor 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 modified. 
 The fineness marks  333, 585, 750, and 999  indicate the actual percentage of gold. 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 a wide variety of colors and properties—ranging from classic yellow gold to rose and red gold, all the way to white gold and the high-contrast combinations created by 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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            <content type="html">
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                 Silver as a Jewelry Metal: Properties, 925 Sterling Silver, and Care 
   · Illustrations used: AI-generated   
 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 ease of working. 
 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 alone would not be ideally suited for many pieces of jewelry. In the goldsmith’s workshop, silver is therefore usually 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. 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 not always the best choice for jewelry subjected to greater 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 a striking 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 various 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 was, 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 later be subjected. 
 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 can play a particularly significant 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’s 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. As a result, jewelry worn regularly may develop scratches, small dents, and other signs of wear over time. 
 This is especially true for rings, as they constantly come into 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 goldsmith’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 with 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 it from 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 simply refers 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 to create distinctive patterns reminiscent of wood grain. 
 925 sterling silver is particularly well-suited 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 still look very different within a Mokume-Gane structure. Therefore, when designing, it is not only the type of metal that matters, but also its hue, its surface finish, 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. Whether it’s the best choice for a specific piece, however, depends on its construction and intended use. 
 For pendants, earrings, and many other pieces of jewelry, the mechanical stress is comparatively 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, the 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 making 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 a natural property of the material and does not indicate 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 unusual material combinations using the Mokume-Gane technique. 
  Originally published on June 2, 2019; comprehensively revised on September 1, 2026.  
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            </content>

                            <updated>2026-09-01T15:36:00+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">
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                                            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.
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                 Which is more valuable, gold or platinum? 
   · Illustrations used: AI-generated   
 In the world of precious metals, both    gold    and    platinum    have held a firm place for centuries as symbols of wealth and luxury. But when it comes to deciding which of the two is more valuable, there is no simple answer. Various factors—such as price, rarity, industrial use, and cultural significance—play a role in determining the value of these metals. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these aspects and try to paint a clearer picture of which metal might be considered more valuable in which context. 
 
  Gold or platinum—which is right for your ring?  
 Discover your options. We’ll guide you through the selection process. 
  
  
 
 FOR YOUR JOURNEY TOGETHER 
 Wedding Rings 
 Discover gold and platinum rings—perfect for your style and everyday life. 
 Discover wedding rings →  
 
 
  
 
 FOR THAT SPECIAL QUESTION 
 Engagement Rings 
 A diamond, a personalized design, and the perfect precious metal. 
 View engagement rings →  
 
 
  
 
 FOR A WISE DECISION 
 Material Consultation 
 Gold or platinum? We’ll discuss your preferences, your questions, and your budget. 
 Request a consultation →  
 
 
 Images: AI-generated stock images. 
 
 Historical and Cultural Significance 
 Gold has deep-rooted historical and cultural significance dating back to ancient times. In many cultures, gold was revered as a symbol of divine power and eternal wealth. It served as currency, jewelry, and even as a religious symbol. Even today, gold plays a significant role in the financial world, whether as an investment or as a currency reserve for central banks. 
 Platinum, on the other hand, was not discovered in South America until the 18th century and recognized as a distinct precious metal. Its use and reputation grew over time, and today platinum is also a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, particularly in the jewelry industry. However, platinum is also highly valued for its industrial applications, which adds to its value. 
 Price and Market Value 
 The market value of gold and platinum fluctuates over time and is influenced by various economic and geopolitical factors. Traditionally, platinum was more expensive than gold because it is rarer and has a higher melting point, which makes it more difficult to process. In recent years, however, the prices have converged, and there have even been periods when gold was more expensive than platinum. 
 Current market data shows that the price of platinum often depends heavily on demand from the automotive industry, where it is used as a catalyst material. Gold, on the other hand, is primarily viewed as an investment and a currency reserve, which makes it particularly sought after during times of economic uncertainty. Consequently, the value of gold and platinum can vary significantly depending on current market conditions and the global economic situation. 
 Industrial Applications 
 A key difference between gold and platinum lies in their industrial applications. Gold is used in the electronics industry due to its excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, for example in connectors, switches, and printed circuit boards. However, its applications are limited compared to those of platinum. 
 Platinum, on the other hand, has extensive industrial applications. It is used in catalytic converters for cars to reduce harmful emissions, in the chemical industry as a catalyst for various processes, and in medicine for devices such as pacemakers and cancer medications. This wide range of applications contributes to platinum being considered indispensable in many fields. 
 Rarity and Availability 
 Platinum is rarer than gold. Annual platinum production amounts to only a fraction of gold production, making it one of the rarest metals on Earth. This rarity contributes significantly to its value, especially in industries that rely on its unique properties. 
 Although gold is more common than platinum, it is still very rare. However, its widespread use and long history as a currency and store of value make it a stable and sought-after asset. 
 Environmental and Social Considerations 
 The extraction of precious metals has significant environmental and social impacts. Mining gold and platinum often requires large amounts of energy and water and can lead to soil and water pollution. In addition, working conditions in the mines are often harsh and dangerous. 
 Recently, however, there have been efforts to promote more sustainable and equitable practices in the precious metals industry. Certifications such as Fairtrade and more environmentally friendly mining methods are gaining importance and can influence the true value of these metals in an increasingly environmentally conscious world. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Gold or Platinum—What Does This Mean for Wedding Rings? 
 When choosing between gold and platinum for your wedding rings, it’s not just about the material’s value—it’s also about practicality for everyday wear, symbolism, and style. Both precious metals offer excellent properties but differ in key ways: 
 
 
  Criterion  Gold  Platinum  
 
 
 
 Hardness &amp;amp; Durability 
 Softer, can be customized through alloys 
 Very hard and durable—ideal for everyday use 
 
 
 Color 
 Available in yellow, white, or rose gold 
 Naturally silver-white, no alloy required 
 
 
 Symbolism 
 Warmth, tradition, wealth 
 Rarity, exclusivity, durability 
 
 
 Care 
 Requires occasional polishing 
 Very low-maintenance; retains its luster for years 
 
 
 Price 
 Depending on the alloy, more affordable 
 Slightly more expensive, but very durable 
 
 
 
  Our tip:  If durability, longevity, and a cool hue are important to you,  platinum  is the top choice. For warm colors and a classic look,  gold wedding bands  are ideal—especially if personal color preferences play a role. 
 
    Platinum Wedding Bands – Timeless &amp;amp; Exclusive    
    Gold Wedding Bands in Various Alloys    
    Platinum vs. Gold – Our experts will advise you personally    
 
 
 ? Free PDF guide 
  “Platinum or Gold? Five Questions to Help You Choose the Right Wedding Bands”   ✔ ️    Direct Comparison    &amp;lt; Download for free now  ✔ ️    Checklist for Choosing    &amp;lt; Download for free now   ✔ ️    Tips on Care &amp;amp; Comfort    &amp;lt; Download for free now  
 
 Conclusion 
 There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether gold or platinum is more valuable. Both metals have their own strengths and values, which come into play in different contexts. Gold has deep-rooted cultural and historical significance and is considered a safe investment. Platinum, on the other hand, stands out for its rarity and diverse industrial applications. 
 Ultimately, the value of gold and platinum depends on individual preferences, current market conditions, and specific needs. For some, gold may be more valuable due to its stable investment value, while others may prefer platinum because of its industrial significance and rarity. However, both metals remain timeless symbols of wealth and luxury. 
 You   can find   a comprehensive overview of   the value, properties, and processing of precious metals   in our guide. 
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            </content>

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