FAUX PAS OR FASHION FORWARD? MIXING METALS IN JEWELLERY

Trends come and go, but the popularity of yellow, white and rose gold jewellery has been steadfast since the 19th century, when Carl Fabergé (yes, the very same responsible for Fabergé eggs) started incorporating rose gold into his creations.

But while the famed jeweller of the Tsar of Russia may have pioneered the mixing of yellow, white and rose gold metals into one design, the reknown of his works was apparently not enough to inspire a fashion trend in mixing metals.

Still today, it’s likely that you’ve heard from at least one person that mixing different tones of gold is ill-advised for a number of reasons, most of them myths.

Let’s have a look at these myths and the truth behind them:

MYTH #1: MIXED METALS MEANS YOUR JEWELLERY WILL TARNISH

Like most myths, this sprouts from confusion. Tarnishing, or dullness and discolouration, occurs over time as certain metals are exposed to oxygen.

While it’s true that pure (24 carat) gold does not tarnish, it is very rare for pure gold to be placed into set jewellery, as it is simply too soft.

Most gold jewellery, whether it is yellow, white or rose, contains gold mixed with alloys that harden the naturally soft metal (and in the case of white and rose gold – alter its colour).

It’s ultimately the reaction of these alloys to oxygen exposure that results in dullness of jewellery over time, and it affects all tones of gold, including yellow gold that is under 14 carats.

So, if avoiding mixing metals isn’t the solution to avoiding tarnishing, how do you keep your favourite pieces looking bright and new? The answer is the same for any metal as well as your precious stones: proper care!

MYTH #2: MIXING METALS LOOKS TACKY

We’re not sure who started this rumour, but like most, it’s pretty baseless. Like all other fashion decisions, mixing metals is a personal choice and expression of style that different people will have different opinions on.

For the most part, mixing metals in jewellery is much more commonly seen in recent times than centuries past, but there are many more factors that influence this beyond style choices, including the availability of different tones of gold in different regions of the world in centuries past.

Mixing metals provides a brilliant opportunity to make a statement unlike any other in your accessorising choices, particularly where Australian pieces are concerned.

Many Dreamtime Diamonds pieces are duo or tri-toned, combining yellow, white and rose gold in different settings with uniquely rare Australian Argyle Diamonds.

Mixing different tones of gold can be a brilliant way to express your individuality, layer different styles and compliment multiple different outfits with minimal styling changes.

MIXING METALS IS EXPENSIVE

While cost perception also varies from person to person depending on individual values, those that truly cherish and invest in rare gemstones and precious metals will usually appreciate the value of a quality jewellery piece.

There’s nothing quite like holding a piece of Australia in your hand in the form of rare Argyle diamonds. Sourced from the red sands of the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, Dreamtime Diamonds exude an element of warmth unlike any other diamond.

Set into complimentary tones of gold, these warm-toned pieces are as remarkably beautiful as the land they came from.