Gold, platinum, and silver have long been coveted for their beauty and value, shaping the world of fine jewellery for centuries. However, not all precious metals are created equal. The purity, durability, and composition of each metal play a significant role in its wearability, maintenance, and overall investment value. From the richness of 24 karat gold to the resilience of platinum and the accessibility of sterling silver, understanding these metals is key to making informed choices when it comes to buying jewellery.

At SARAH & SEBASTIAN, our approach to fine jewellery is derived from our commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. Whether creating delicate 14 karat gold pieces, heirloom 18 karat gold designs, or platinum earrings for new piercings, we carefully select our materials for both their natural beauty and longevity. This guide explores the characteristics of gold, platinum and silver, offering insight into their unique qualities and how they shape the pieces we wear and cherish.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 10, 14, 18 AND 24 KARAT GOLD?

The difference between gold karats comes down to purity, durability, and colour—factors that influence both aesthetics and wearability. To improve its strength, gold is alloyed with other metals such as silver, copper, nickel, and zinc. This process creates 10, 14, and 18 karat gold, with each variation offering a balance of purity and durability. These alloys reinforce the structure of gold and influence its colour, resulting in variations like white gold, rose gold, and different shades of yellow gold.

10 karat gold contains 41.7% pure gold, making it the most durable and affordable option. Its muted yellow hue comes from the higher percentage of alloyed metals, which also makes it more resistant to scratches and dents. However, this lower gold content means 10 karat gold can be prone to tarnishing over time. It offers practicality without compromising on style.

14 karat gold, with 58.3% pure gold, is one of the most popular choices for fine jewellery. Striking the perfect balance between durability, affordability, and beauty, it has a warmer golden hue and is significantly more resistant to tarnishing than 10 karat gold. Its strength and longevity make it an excellent option for rings, necklaces, and bracelets are both long-lasting and ideal for everyday wear.

18 karat gold, composed of 75% pure gold, is the pinnacle of luxury and refinement. Its rich hue and high gold content give it a distinctive warmth, making it the preferred choice for high-end fine jewellery. While softer than 10 karat and 14 karat gold, it remains far more durable than 24 karat pure gold, making it ideal for engagement rings, and wedding bands and cherished pieces such as tennis bracelets and necklaces.

24 karat gold contains 99.9% pure gold content, giving it a deep, rich yellow hue. While undeniably luxurious, it is also soft and malleable, making it less suitable for everyday jewellery as it can easily scratch, dent, or warp over time.

SARAH & SEBASTIAN’S SOLID GOLD 

Our collections are predominantly crafted in 14 karat or 18 karat solid yellow and white gold—metals chosen for their inherent beauty and durability. 14 karat solid gold is the foundation of our signature collections, lending strength and wearability to delicate styles like the iconic Petite Letter necklaces and bracelets, the Birthstone pieces, and the diamond-forward Gossamer essentials. These designs are refined yet effortless, intended for layering and daily wear.

Our most elevated fine jewellery—engagement rings, wedding bands, and sculptural statement pieces—are meticulously crafted in 18 karat solid gold. With its rich, luminous depth, 18 karat gold embodies luxury and longevity, perfect for marking life’s most significant moments.

As a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council, SARAH & SEBASTIAN is committed to sourcing gold responsibly, ensuring that each piece is not only an expression of craftsmanship but also a reflection of our sustainability values.

WHITE GOLD: UNDERSTATED LUXURY

For those drawn to the enduring quality of gold with a contemporary twist, white gold offers a refined alternative. This alloy combines pure gold with palladium and nickel and is then often plated with rhodium to achieve its signature cool-toned finish. While more accessible than platinum, white gold retains an air of sophistication.

PLATINUM: THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

Platinum is a naturally bright, dense, and highly durable metal—making it the quintessential choice for fine jewellery that lasts. Composed of 90-95% pure platinum, it’s resistant to wear and tarnishing and its density and strength allow it to withstand a lifetime of wear while developing a natural patina that enhances its character. A discerning choice for engagement rings and wedding bands, platinum offers a unique appeal that is unrivalled by white gold or silver. 

At SARAH & SEBASTIAN, our piercing jewellery is meticulously crafted in both 18k solid gold and platinum, designed specifically for initial piercings and cartilage piercings. Platinum is widely regarded as one of the safest metals for new piercings due to its hypoallergenic properties, exceptional durability, and resistance to tarnishing. Free from cadmium, nickel, and lead, our platinum cartilage earrings are polished to a mirror-like finish, ensuring both comfort and safety during the healing process. Its biocompatibility minimises skin reactivity, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitivities.

STERLING SILVER: TIMELESS AND VERSATILE

For jewellery that exudes sophistication without the high price tag, sterling silver is an enduring option. Composed of 92.5% pure silver, sterling silver is versatile and perfect for everything from daily essentials to bolder designs. Compared to gold or platinum, it requires more frequent polishing with a specialised silver polish or a polishing cloth to maintain its pristine shine. 

AGDP STERLING SILVER

While sterling silver is traditionally alloyed with copper, the silver pieces from our AURELIA collection feature a modern, high-quality silver alloy enriched with palladium known as AGPD. This innovative blend enhances durability, resists tarnish, and remains hypoallergenic, all while preserving the luminous lustre that makes silver so timeless.At SARAH & SEBASTIAN, we believe that fine jewellery should stand the test of time. By selecting responsibly sourced, high-quality materials, we craft pieces to be worn and loved for years to come. Whether investing in a signature gold necklace, a diamond-adorned wedding band, or a platinum cartilage earring, the right metal ensures that your jewellery remains as enduring as the memories it encapsulates.

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