Rhodium isn’t magnetic. It’s paramagnetic. This means rhodium is weakly attracted to a magnetic field and doesn’t retain any magnetism after being exposed to a magnet. Pure rhodium doesn’t magnetize, but rhodium alloyed with some other metal becomes magnetic or ferromagnetic depending on the metal it’s alloyed with. Is it Possible to Test Rhodium Purity … Read more
Platinum patina is the gradual change in appearance platinum jewelry develops from everyday wear, producing a soft, frosted, or satin finish as microscopic surface scratches accumulate. Platinum patination is the same thing as platinum tarnish, though many people new to platinum confuse the two; platinum is highly resistant to corrosion, so what looks like tarnishing … Read more
Platinum 600 is a platinum alloy that contains 60% pure platinum and 40% other metals. It offers the classic look of expensive platinum jewelry at a far more affordable price point compared to higher purity platinum alloys. Platinum 600 is paramagnetic unless alloyed with ferromagnetic metals like iron or nickel and you can use this … Read more
Rhodium doesn’t tarnish. It’s a noble metal that doesn’t corrode, rust and oxidize under normal day-to-day circumstances. However, rhodium plating on jewelry wears off over time exposing the base metal underneath, which then tarnishes and discolors. Does Rhodium Tarnish? Does it Corrode, Rust and Oxidize? No, rhodium doesn’t tarnish. It’s a noble precious metal highly … Read more
White gold is an alloy combining pure 24k yellow gold with white metals like nickel, palladium, and silver. Jewelers create it by melting and mixing these metals at extremely high temperatures (around 1,945°F) in a crucible, then pouring the molten mixture into molds to cool. White gold alloy’s composition varies by karat with 9k white … Read more
Silver 500, also called “Half Silver,” is a silver alloy containing 50% silver and 50% copper. It was commonly used in British coins from 1920-1946 and occasionally in jewelry where cost is a concern. Silver 500 isn’t magnetic (it’s diamagnetic) but is allergenic due to its copper content. This makes it unsuitable for people with … Read more
Sterling silver is a silver alloy containing 92.5% silver, 7.5% copper, and 0% nickel. However, low-quality or mass-produced sterling silver jewelry can be contaminated with nickel particles during production, causing skin reactions in people with nickel sensitivities. Certified nickel-free sterling silver comes with a certificate and is stamped with a NF mark. A NF 925 … Read more
Sacagawea silver dollars exist as official U.S. Mint products. The San Francisco Mint produced 90% silver proof versions annually, featuring an “S” mint mark and a distinctive cameo finish. However, many supposed “silver” Sacagaweas found online aren’t genuine silver coins. Instead, they’re regular circulation coins that have been silver-plated by private individuals for novelty and … Read more
Platinum 900 is an alloy containing 90% pure platinum and 10% other metals like ruthenium or iridium, added for enhanced durability and workability. It’s popular for jewelry, especially engagement and wedding rings, offering a balance of purity, strength, and cost. The alloy is non-magnetic (paramagnetic) and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for most people. While no … Read more
Rose gold is a pink-hued gold alloy created by combining pure 24k yellow gold with copper. Silver is optionally added to lighten the shade. Professional jewelers make rose gold through a seven-step process. These steps are mixing the metals, heating them above 1,900°F in a furnace, stirring thoroughly for homogeneity, casting into ingots, cooling to … Read more