Should I Wear Silver or Gold Jewellery?

Should I wear silver or gold jewellery?

Top tips to help you make the right choice between wearing silver or gold coloured jewellery.

Choosing between silver and gold jewellery is a decision many of us face when adding pieces to our collection or selecting accessories for a special occasion. Both silver and gold have their unique qualities and can significantly impact your overall look and style. To help you make an informed decision on how to choose gold or silver jewellery, we will delve into the various aspects of both jewellery, from their characteristics and symbolism to factors like skin tone and personal style. We hope you’ll then have a clearer understanding of whether you should choose silver or gold jewellery.

Understanding the differences between gold and silver jewellery

Before making a decision, it’s essential to understand the fundamental characteristics of both silver and gold jewellery.

Silver Jewellery

• Composition: Silver jewellery is typically made from sterling silver, which is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like copper. This combination lends strength and durability to the metal. All Flutterby jewellery that looks silver is silver! That is, its made of sterling 925 silver.
• Colour: Silver has a bright, shiny appearance, often associated with a cool, white hue. It complements a wide range of gemstones and other metals.
• Tarnish: One drawback of silver is that it can tarnish when exposed to air or moisture. This means it may require more maintenance to keep its luster.  We recommend keeping our jewellery in one of our anti-tarnish pouches and using a silver polishing cloth to keep it looking its best.

Gold Jewellery

• Composition: Gold jewellery is made from various gold alloys, with purity levels represented in carats. 24k gold is pure gold, but it’s often alloyed to enhance durability and colour. Common alloys include 18karat (k), 14k, and 10k gold.  At Flutterby, the majority of our gold jewellery is made of gold vermeil. This is a good layer of gold (usually 18k or 14k) on top of sterling silver. We also sell a few pieces made of gold fill where the gold plating is electronically bonded onto a base metal. `in this blog we are concentrating on the choice of colour jewellery and therefore so it is good to note the different sorts of ‘gold’ jewellery that is available, but important to consider other factors when choosing the right colour. Gold Fill jewellery isn’t suitable to anyone who is allergic to wearing base metals.
• Colour: The color of gold can range from bright yellow (24k) to rose, white, and even green, depending on the alloys used. This variety makes gold a versatile choice.

Symbolism and Meaning

Both silver and gold have deep symbolic meanings that may influence your choice.

Silver Symbolism

• Elegance: Silver is often associated with elegance, grace, and sophistication. It has a timeless quality that makes it suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
• Femininity: Silver is often seen as a metal with a feminine touch, making it a popular choice for women’s jewelry.
• Spirituality: Silver has a connection to lunar energies and is often used in spiritual and mystical jewelry.

Gold Symbolism

• Luxury: Gold symbolizes wealth, opulence, and luxury. It is often worn as a status symbol and signifies success and achievement.
• Timelessness: Gold has been cherished throughout history, and its enduring appeal makes it a symbol of timelessness and eternal love.
• Power: Gold is often associated with power, authority, and leadership, making it a choice for those who want to exude confidence.

Consider Your Skin Tone

Your skin tone plays a significant role in determining whether silver or gold jewellery will complement you better.

Silver Jewellery for Cool Undertones

• If you have cool undertones in your skin, which means your veins appear bluish, silver jewelry is an excellent choice. It enhances the coolness in your complexion and complements your skin beautifully.
• Silver jewellery looks particularly stunning on individuals with fair, pale, or rosy complexions but it can also look striking on those with very dark hair or complexion.

Gold Jewellery for Warm Undertones

• If your skin has warm undertones, meaning your veins appear greenish, gold jewelry can enhance your natural warmth and glow.
• Gold jewellery pairs well with olive, tan, or dark complexions, adding a radiant touch to your overall appearance. As one gets older, skin tones can change so if you were always a ‘silver person’ you may find that the warmth of gold suits you as you get older.
• Gold jewellery also suits those with a warmer and more blonde tones to their hair colour.

Personal Style and Preference

As important as anything of course is your personal style and taste which plays a pivotal role in deciding between silver and gold jewellery!

Silver Jewellery for Classic and Contemporary Styles

• If your style is more classic, timeless, or minimalist, silver jewelry offers a versatile and understated look that complements these aesthetics.
• Silver jewellery is also a favourite choice for those who prefer a contemporary or edgy style, as it can be paired with various outfits.

Gold Jewellery for Bold and Glamorous Styles

• If you enjoy bold, glamorous, or extravagant styles, gold jewellery is your go-to option. It adds a touch of opulence and can be the focal point of your outfit.
• Gold is often preferred for special occasions like weddings or formal events where you want to make a grand statement.

Occasion and Versatility

Consider the occasion for which you plan to wear the jewellery. Historically, silver jewellery tended to be recommended for more casual and informal, or everyday, wear compared with gold which would be ‘saved’ for special occasions. However, the introduction and increased availability of contemporary gold vermeil designs which offer luxurious and beautifully made gold jewellery without the hefty price tag has meant that well made gold jewellery can be a wonderful choice for everyday wear for those who suit gold best.

Budget Considerations

Your budget is another critical factor in your decision-making process. One of the reasons we love gold vermeil jewellery is it allows us to create gold coloured jewellery of a high quality without using base metals and without a high price tag.

Above all…

Don’t feel confined to choosing exclusively between silver and gold. Mixing metals can create a unique and personalized look.

• Combining silver and gold jewellery can add depth and dimension to your outfit. Mixing metals can be a stylish and intentional choice.
• Just ensure that the overall effect is harmonious and balanced, and that the pieces complement each other rather than clashing.

In conclusion…

It can be tricky to choose between silver and gold jewellery.  Many people can look good in both colour way. Ultimately deciding if you suit silver or gold comes down to your personal preferences, style, budget, and the outfit you’re accessorizing. However consider your skin and hair tone when choosing between gold and silver. Remember, there’s no hard-and-fast rule that dictates whether you should wear silver or gold – it’s all about what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you choose silver, gold, or a combination of both, your jewellery should be an expression of your unique personality and style. So, go ahead and wear what makes you shine!