Cushion Cut Lab Diamond Engagement Ring – Hidden Halo Solitaire

Metal choice is based on your personal preferences and your budget.  We are happy to help you decide.  Here is some general information to help you choose.

Platinum is a durable precious metal and is considered the premium choice. It provides lasting strength and does not require rhodium to stay white. After polishing scratches disappear, and it appears brand new. Platinum is considered hypoallergenic and is an excellent choice for sensitive skin. It is naturally nickel-free and typically 95% pure, reducing the risk of allergic reactions commonly caused by alloys. Platinum is typically the highest price precious metal for jewelry.

18kt Gold is 75% gold and 25% alloy metals. It is softer than 14kt and 10kt because it contains more gold and less strengthening alloys. This means it is more prone to scratching, denting, and warping over time with daily wear. 18kt white gold requires rhodium plating to be bright white.  It wears off over time and will need to be reapplied.

14kt Gold is 58.3% gold and 41.7% alloys. It is stronger than 18kt and more durable and scratch resistant. It will scratch over time with daily wear, needing periodic maintenance. 14kt white gold requires rhodium plating, which will wear off over time with wear and from exposure to soap, antibacterial gel, other chemicals. It will require re-plating to maintain its bright silver color. The alloys added for strength, specifically nickel or copper, can cause skin sensitivity or reactions in some individuals. 

10kt Gold is 41.7% gold and 58.3% alloys. 10kt gold is stronger and more durable than 18kt and 14kt due to it having less gold and more alloy metals. It is the hardest and most scratch-resistant form of gold, making it ideal for active lifestyles. It is also the least expensive gold option. It has a higher allergy risk. Having a high alloy content, particularly nickel, can cause skin irritations or allergic reactions for those with sensitive skin. Due to the higher proportion of non-gold metals, 10kt gold can tarnish more easily than higher karat gold if exposed to chemicals.

Silver is the least expensive metal for jewelry. Generally hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for those with skin sensitivities to other metals. Silver is a very soft metal prone to scratches, dents, and bending, making it less suitable for daily wear jewelry. We do not recommend silver for forever daily long-term wear. It is okay for a "just for now" situation. Silver tarnishes with wear and exposure to chemicals. It requires polishing to keep its shine.