METAL TYPES

Nina Elle Jewels uses only the highest quality precious metals in their fine jewelry collection, we understand that the choice between the various metals can seem confusing and are often asked which metal type is best. It is a personal choice as each metal has its advantages and disadvantages. Read through this section to determine which metal is best for you. You will have to consider the characteristics of each metal, the price, and the care required to maintain the metal at its optimum beauty. For more information you can contact us directly and we will gladly assist further

GOLD

The Purity of Gold is measured in Karats. 24 karat is pure gold, but its purity means it is more expensive and less durable than gold that is alloyed with other metals. Different alloys are used in jewelry for greater strength, durability and color range. The percentage of gold decreases as the karats decrease. When comparing gold jewelry, the higher the number of karats the greater the value.

The karat of the jewelry will tell you what percentage of gold it contains:

24 karat is 100 percent gold

18 karat is 75 percent gold- Usually mixed with Silver, Copper, Nickel and Palladium (white gold)

14 karat is 58 percent gold- Usually mixed with Silver, Nickel, Copper, & Palladium

In the US 14K gold is the most popular choice and most diamond rings and fine jewelry pieces are cast in 14k yellow or white gold. 18K gold has always been a more popular option amongst European women however, women in the US and around the globe are more rapidly upgrading and treating themselves to an 18k piece. All 14K white gold items at Nina Elle Jewels are upgradable to 18K or platinum per request.

YELLOW GOLD

A yellow gold piece is alloyed with silver and copper. It is the most frequently used type of gold there is. Malleable, ductile, and generally non-corrosive, it has a high melting point and is not susceptible to compression.

WHITE GOLD

White gold is gold alloyed with a large percentage of silver, or a selection of other white metals such as palladium. White gold is highly reflective and is very similar in appearance to platinum. The natural color of white gold is actually a light gray. All white gold jewelry is normally surface-treated with rhodium to get its white appearance. To keep a white gold ring looking its best it should be re-rhodium plated approximately each 12 to 18 months. White gold is more durable than platinum and much easier to maintain which is why we often recommend using white gold vs. platinum.

ROSE GOLD

Rose gold is alloyed with copper, and perhaps silver. The proportions are about one part of copper to three parts of 24-karat gold. It is used often times as an accent color for most pieces or more popularly in men's wedding bands. All our items with the exception of tension settings can be cast in rose gold. You can also use rose gold accents in double halo rings or settings with pink diamonds.

PLATINUM

Platinum is a white metal, but unlike gold it is used in jewelry in almost its pure form (approximately 95% pure). Platinum is extremely long wearing and is very white, so it does not need to be Rhodium plated like white gold. Platinum is very dense (heavy), so a platinum ring will feel significantly heavier than an 18k gold ring. Although gold and platinum prices tend to fluctuate, historically Platinum has always been more expensive than gold. A platinum ring will be approximately 2.5 times the price of an 18kt white gold ring (excluding gemstone costs).

A Platinum upgrade is recommended for men & women with allergic reactions to the Nickel content in gold or for individuals who prefer a heavier feel to the ring.

MAINTENANCE

Both Platinum & Gold are durable, sturdy, dependable, and are great choices for your precious diamond jewelry. In order get a lifetime of enjoyment from your jewelry, be sure to keep it clean and safe. We recommend that you do not wear jewelry during rough work or when handling harsh chemicals as it may affect the appearance and luster of your piece. We recommend to have your rings professionally cleaned at least once a year to maintain its rich color and luxurious appearance. Nina Elle Jewels offers complimentary annual cleanings on your jewelry for the life of your purchase. Just ship back the piece and we will take care of the rest. Your only responsibility is the shipping cost.

Finally, check the diamond settings periodically for any damage to the gold prongs or bezels. If you see a loose prong, or if the setting looks out of line contact us immediately for evaluation and repair.

All our pieces with the exception of tension settings can be custom made in platinum 14K or 18K yellow or white gold upon request (tension settings require a special mix of spring alloy which requires the hardness of 14k yellow or white gold)