Your trusted guide from Sonny’s Jewellers, Birmingham Jewellery Quarter
When choosing fine jewellery - especially pieces meant to last a lifetime - quality should always come first. Precious metals form the foundation of every ring, bracelet, necklace, and heirloom. The metal you choose affects everything from durability to colour, maintenance, comfort, and overall value.
At Sonny’s Jewellers, we believe your jewellery should look stunning today, tomorrow, and decades from now. That starts with understanding the precious metals used to craft it. Here’s your expert guide to choosing the right metal and why quality truly matters.
Gold: Timeless, Versatile, and Beautiful
Gold has been cherished for centuries - and for good reason. It’s luxurious, durable, and available in several colours and purities.
Gold Purity: What Does Karat Mean?
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24ct gold – Purest form, bright yellow, but too soft for most jewellery
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22ct gold – High purity, rich colour, ideal for traditional jewellery
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18ct gold – The perfect balance of purity and durability; a premium choice
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14ct gold – Strong and affordable, great for everyday wear
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9ct gold – Durable and cost-effective, ideal for budget-conscious buyers
Higher purity means richer colour - but lower purity offers better strength. At Sonny’s Jewellers, we help you choose the perfect balance depending on your lifestyle and style preferences.
Gold Colours: Find the Look That Suits You
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Yellow Gold – Classic, warm, and traditional
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White Gold – Sleek, modern finish with a bright shine
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Rose Gold – Romantic, contemporary, and flattering on all skin tones
Each colour is crafted using alloy blends, and quality craftsmanship is essential to ensure the metal keeps its shine and integrity over years of wear.
Platinum: The Premium Choice for Lasting Luxury
Platinum is one of the rarest and most durable precious metals. It’s naturally white, hypoallergenic, and exceptionally strong—making it the top choice for engagement rings and high-value jewellery.
Why Choose Platinum?
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Extremely durable – Perfect for everyday wear
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Doesn’t fade or tarnish
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Ideal for sensitive skin
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Securely holds diamonds and gemstones
Platinum jewellery is heavier and more luxurious in feel. While it carries a premium price, its longevity and resilience make it a worthy lifetime investment.
Palladium: Lightweight, Strong, and Naturally White
Palladium—part of the platinum family—is rising in popularity. It’s lighter than platinum but shares many of its benefits.
Key Benefits:
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Naturally bright white colour
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Hypoallergenic
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Lightweight and comfortable
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Resistant to tarnish
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Great for modern, minimalist jewellery designs
For customers seeking a premium look without platinum’s density, palladium is an excellent option.
Silver: Affordable Elegance
Sterling silver is beautiful, affordable, and perfect for everyday jewellery. However, it’s softer and more prone to tarnish than gold or platinum.
Best Uses for Silver:
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Earrings
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Bracelets
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Fashion rings
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Occasional-wear pieces
Silver offers exceptional value but requires proper care - something our specialists at Sonny’s Jewellers can guide you through.
Why Metal Quality Matters in Jewellery
Not all precious metals are created equal. Quality affects:
✔ Durability
Higher-quality metals resist bending, scratching, and wear.
✔ Longevity
A well-crafted platinum or 18ct gold ring can last generations.
✔ Appearance
Purity and craftsmanship determine how your jewellery shines over time.
✔ Comfort
Hypoallergenic metals like platinum and palladium reduce irritation.
✔ Value
Quality metals hold resale value and remain timeless in style.
This is why choosing a trusted, experienced jeweller makes such a difference.
Trust the Experts at Sonny’s Jewellers
At Sonny’s Jewellers in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, we use only premium-quality precious metals backed by decades of craftsmanship. Our experts help you choose the perfect metal based on:
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Your lifestyle
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Your skin sensitivity
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Your design preferences
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Your long-term investment goals
Whether you're buying an engagement ring, wedding band, or bespoke jewellery piece, we ensure you get exceptional quality - made to last a lifetime and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Understanding precious metals ensures you choose jewellery that retains its beauty, strength, and meaning. From the classic warmth of gold to the premium durability of platinum, the right metal elevates your jewellery from a simple accessory to a treasured heirloom.
When quality matters - and it always should - Sonny’s Jewellers is here to guide you.