Explaining Different Jewellery Materials

Ever get lost in the maze of jewellery options? Trying to pick out a piece, like say silver piercing jewellery, can feel like navigating a jungle of terms and styles. It's frustrating when you can't even explain what you're after to the shopkeeper. But fear not, a bit of research on jewellery materials can be your secret weapon to snagging the perfect piece.

Gold Jewellery

On the lookout for gold jewellery, cut to the chase and know the difference between the real deal and gold tone. Genuine gold piercing jewellery means it's crafted from actual gold, not just coated in a gold colour. The purity of gold is sized up in karats, putting in display the percentage of gold.

For example, 24-karat gold is the purest at 99.9% gold, while 14-karat is 58.3% gold, and 18-karat is 75% gold. The higher the karat, the more valuable and pricier the jewellery and it's less likely to tarnish or cause skin reactions.

On the flip side, gold tone piercing jewellery is made from base metals like brass or copper, then coated with gold colour. It gives a similar appearance to real gold but doesn't contain any actual gold. 

While gold jewellery is an investment that can last a lifetime with care, gold-tone offers a similar look at a fraction of the cost, though it may not be as durable.

Opal Stone Jewellery

Opal is a stone adored by many, often spotted in body piercings at both online and offline stores. Its beauty is captivating, but here's the scoop: real opal can cost a pretty penny. Plus, there's a variety of opals out there, from rare and luxurious to more budget-friendly and man-made options. 

Genuine Opals:

These natural opals are formed right here on Earth. They can be pricey because they're rare and stunningly beautiful. Genuine opals are famous for their dazzling array of colours and intricate patterns like harlequin or pinfire. But, because they're delicate, they might not be the best choice for certain body piercings.

Synthetic Opals:

Synthetic opals, also called lab-grown opals, are quite common and on the spot. Their chemical makeup makes them look like natural opals. These man-made opals are a wallet-friendly option compared to real ones, giving you similar beauty without breaking the bank. They're a hit for body jewellery because they're tough and long-lasting.

Faux Opals:

Faux opals are imitation stones designed to look like the real deal but are made from different materials. These synthetics can copy the colours and patterns of opals while being much cheaper. While they might not always pass as genuine, they often come pretty close in appearance.

Opals are delicate, like glass in hardness. For body piercings, it's best to opt for genuine opals in less exposed areas, like the ears. Synthetic opals, however, are lab-made and offer a similar look to the real deal but at a lower cost. Faux opals, made from non-opal materials, are another affordable option that can closely mimic the appearance of genuine opals.

Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia, a synthetic gemstone, is a popular choice for body jewellery because it looks like a diamond but costs less. Unlike glass stones, cubic zirconia is made from zirconium dioxide and comes in various colours and shapes, making it versatile for designs. 

When shopping for body jewellery, knowing the materials used is key to finding the right fit, especially for those with sensitive skin to avoid allergies. If you're on a budget, synthetic opal or cubic zirconia can offer a stylish look without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer genuine or imitation materials ultimately depends on your taste and desired appearance.

Uncovering different jewellery materials is a game changer. While this gives you a basic understanding, there's always more to explore in the world of body piercing.