When making bracelets and other jewelry from metals, most are made with non-ferrous metals, meaning without iron. With exception of steel jewelry. Iron jewelry can eventually rust.
Noble metals resist corrosion and have a lustrous surface like gold and silver or platinum. More jewelry is made of noble metals, instead of base. Base metals include, nickel, copper and iron.
Fine jewelry is made of precious metals like gold, silver and platinum. These are more valuable than jewelry made of other materials.
Gold is the most popular choice in fine jewelry. It is malleable and lends itself to many designs. S nce gold is soft it is blended with other materials, most often nickel. 18 karat gold is 75% gold and will be and stay the most shiny. Although 14 karat gold is stronger. One downside of gold is that it will wear down and possible need replating after time.
Silver is the least reliable metal to use for fine jewelry. It is softer and has to be mixed with alloys like nickel or copper. More people have allergies to sterling silver because of this. It also will tarnish after time.
Platinum is the third choice, and tends to be the most expensive as well. However, it doesn't wear down like gold does. It can develop a dull finish over time due to wear and scratches. It gives it a kind of antique look. This metal is both malleable and strong, making it easy to work with as well and long lasting.
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