When it comes to selecting the perfect metal for your new jewellery piece, the choice between titanium, gold, and platinum can be both exciting and daunting. Each of these metals offers unique qualities that cater to different tastes and preferences.
At Calla Lily, as experienced fine jewellers in Singapore with over a decade of experience; we are here to help you make the most informed decision. In this guide, we will delve into the distinct characteristics of titanium, gold, and platinum: keep on reading to learn all about it!
All About Gold: Why is 18k a good choice?
Gold has been cherished for centuries, symbolising wealth, power, and beauty. At Calla Lily, our unwavering commitment to quality means we exclusively use 18k gold. But what does “18k” mean?
The “k” stands for karat, a measure of the purity of gold. Pure gold is 24k, but it is too soft for everyday wear. By alloying it with other metals, we achieve 18k gold, which is 75% pure gold and 25% other metals, striking the perfect balance between durability and luxury.
Gold comes in various hues, each offering a unique visual impact:
● Yellow Gold: The classic choice, yellow gold retains its warm, rich colour due to its natural state. It is often alloyed with copper and silver to enhance its strength.
● Natural White Gold: Created by alloying gold with white metals like palladium or nickel, white gold has a sleek, modern appearance.
● White Gold: A layer of rhodium plating is used to create a shiny and reflective white colour appearance, similar in look to polished platinum. Requires replating from time to time depending on how often its scratched against other surfaces.
● Rose Gold: A romantic option, rose gold gets its blush hue from a higher copper content. It is both durable and distinctive, making it a popular choice for contemporary designs.
18k gold is particularly prized in fine jewellery for its perfect blend of purity and strength. While 24k gold is too soft for practical use, 18k gold maintains the luxurious feel of high-purity gold while being robust enough to withstand daily wear. This makes it an ideal choice for bespoke pieces that are both beautiful and durable.
Other lower karat gold options include:
● 14k Gold: Contains 58.3% gold, offering a balance of durability and affordability. It is less expensive than 18k gold and has a slightly paler colour.
● 10k Gold: Contains 41.7% gold, making it the most affordable option. It has a lighter yellow colour due to the higher proportion of alloy metals.
By choosing 18k gold, you are opting for a luxurious balance of purity and durability, ensuring that your jewellery remains stunning and resilient.
Platinum: The Epitome of Luxury
Platinum is revered for its purity, and enduring beauty. It is one of the densest and most durable metals, making it an excellent choice for fine jewellery. Platinum’s natural white sheen does not tarnish or fade, ensuring that your jewellery remains as stunning as the day you first wore it. Its hypoallergenic properties make it ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Platinum’s density means it is heavier than gold, giving it a substantial feel. This weight, combined with its resistance to wear and tear, makes platinum a symbol of enduring value and prestige. Unlike gold, platinum is used in almost its pure form, typically around 95% purity, which contributes to its hypoallergenic nature and its ability to hold gemstones securely.
Titanium: The Modern Choice
Titanium is a contemporary choice for fine jewellery, known for its beautiful array of colours, incredible strength and lightweight nature. It is significantly lighter than both gold and platinum, making it comfortable for everyday wear. Titanium is also highly resistant to corrosion and scratches, ensuring that your jewellery maintains its pristine condition.
One of the unique features of titanium is its ability to be anodised, allowing it to be coloured in a variety of hues. This versatility makes titanium an exciting option for those looking to add a splash of colour to their jewellery collection. Additionally, titanium’s biocompatibility makes it an excellent choice for those with metal sensitivities, as it is unlikely to cause allergic reactions.
Understanding the Differences: So, Which One Should I Choose?
Choosing between titanium, gold, and platinum ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in your jewellery. Here are the key differences to consider:
● Weight: Platinum is the heaviest, followed by gold, with titanium being the lightest. If you prefer a substantial feel, platinum is the way to go. For a lighter, more comfortable option, consider titanium.
● Cost: Titanium is more complex to work with and hence more costly, similarly is platinum when compared to gold. For Gold, the material cost is higher yet its malleability makes it less costly to work with.
● Durability: Platinum is the most durable, resistant to wear and tear. Gold, especially 18k, is also durable but may require some maintenance over time. Titanium is incredibly strong and resistant to scratches, making it ideal for active lifestyles, however, the anodised colours may require some retouching over the years.
● Appearance: Gold offers a variety of colours, from classic yellow to modern white and romantic rose. Platinum has a timeless white sheen, while titanium can be anodised for a range of vibrant colours.
● Hypoallergenic Properties: Both platinum and titanium are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin. Gold, depending on the alloys used, may cause reactions in some individuals.
I want to create my own bespoke jewellery piece! Where do I start?
At Calla Lily, we specialise in creating bespoke jewellery that reflects your individuality and taste. Whether you are drawn to the timeless elegance of gold, the enduring luxury of platinum, or the modern versatility of titanium, our bespoke services ensure that your jewellery is entirely unique.
If you’re new to the concept of custom made jewellery, we’re here to help guide you through your first journey.
Overall, most people choose to get involved in the creative process and usually go together to, at least, the first meeting with us, if possible. Although that is by no means the norm. It is from this very first encounter that our work begins: from our dialogue and observation, we’ll do our best to fully comprehend your hopes and personality and translate it into the ring of your dreams.
The initial conversation is incredibly revealing as a resource to decipher the codes and nuances of your personal style. It’s in those intangible balances and contrasts that true sophistication is found.
Most of our clients enjoy freedom and genuinely have a great time making the initial decisions. We’ll welcome you into our studio in Singapore, where you can discover a beautiful collection of coloured gemstones. We’ll play around with metals and finishes that resonate with your character and speak to your individuality.
Ultimately, it all comes down to you. It is your unique story that will lead the way!
How much does it cost?
First and foremost, there’s the initial consultation. Largely consisting of an intimate conversation between you and the designer where you’ll both share ideas and discuss concepts, finishes, setting and, of course, stone selection. All of which play a decisive role in determining the project’s budget.
If you’ve previously done some research and already have an inkling of the gem you’d like or an inclination towards a particular style, then you likely have a notion about pricing. The worth of a stone varies wildly depending on the rarity and quality, type, source, carat weight, and other factors.
You understand the number of varying components at play is huge, but not to leave you without any hunches, we’ll venture that somewhere between SGD5,000 and SGD9,000 is a solid middle. However, we are able to accommodate a wide range of budgets by adapting and adjusting on our end.
As you’ve learnt by now, we make exclusive use of 18k gold, platinum, or titanium as metals and only natural gemstones. Typically, much ground is covered in explaining the value of materials, but when you commission a bespoke jewel, you’re expecting originality and the highest levels of quality, right? As you should. But what is often overlooked is that these abstract features—creativity, experience, and ingenuity—bear a cost of their own as well.
Do I need an appointment?
For bespoke pieces, we require bookings made in advance to ensure one of our designers will be fully at your disposal.
You’ll discover the wonders of Calla Lily’s atelier in the midst of the vibrant area of Tiong Bahru in central Singapore.
Studio consultations, which run from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm, Mondays to Saturdays, may be booked here, or call/Whatsapp +65 97729392 or email sparkle@callalily.sg to schedule a slot.
Our team will await to greet you with tea and treats to discuss your vision, and our designers will work closely with you to design and create pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind, tailored to your preferences and style.
Whether you are drawn to the timeless elegance of gold, the enduring luxury of platinum, or the modern versatility of titanium, your choice will reflect your personal style and preferences. At Calla Lily, we are here to help you find your perfect fit!
