Short answer: choose 18K gold for warmth and everyday strength, PT950 platinum for a naturally white metal that never needs re-plating, and S925 sterling silver when you want the lowest price and accept tarnish and softness.
| 18K gold (AU750) | PT950 platinum | S925 sterling silver | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | 75% gold | 95% platinum | 92.5% silver |
| Colour | Yellow, rose or white | Naturally white, stays white | White, tarnishes to grey |
| Wear | Scratches polish out | Develops a soft matte patina | Softest of the three |
| Tarnish | No | No | Yes, needs cleaning |
| Price in this store | Reference | About 8% less than 18K for the same piece | About 56% of the 18K price |
Every Aetheris design can be made in 18K gold, PT950 platinum or sterling silver. The metal changes the colour of the piece, how it wears over the years and the price. Here is what each option means, so you can choose with confidence.
18K gold
18K gold is 75% pure gold, which is why it is often stamped 750 or AU750. The remaining 25% is a mix of other metals that makes the gold harder and gives it its colour:
- Yellow gold has the warm, classic colour most people picture when they think of gold.
- Rose gold gets its soft pink tone from a higher share of copper in the alloy.
- White gold is alloyed with white metals and is commonly finished with a bright white plating, which may need renewing after years of daily wear.
18K gold has a rich colour and a good balance of purity and durability for rings, earrings and pendants.
PT950 platinum
PT950 platinum is 95% pure platinum. It is naturally white, so it keeps its colour without plating, and it is noticeably denser and heavier than gold. Over time, platinum develops a soft satin sheen rather than wearing away, and it holds diamonds securely. At Aetheris, a design in PT950 platinum is currently priced slightly below the same design in 18K gold.
Sterling silver
Sterling silver, stamped 925 or S925, is 92.5% pure silver. It has a bright white look and is the most affordable way to wear a design. Silver is softer than gold and platinum and can tarnish when exposed to air, perfume or moisture, so it benefits from regular polishing and careful storage.
Side by side
| 18K gold | PT950 platinum | Sterling silver | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | 75% gold | 95% platinum | 92.5% silver |
| Colours | Yellow, rose, white | Natural white | Bright white |
| Weight | Medium | Heaviest | Lightest |
| Upkeep | Occasional polishing; white gold may need re-plating | Develops a satin sheen; can be polished | Tarnishes; polish regularly |
| Price at Aetheris | Highest | Slightly below 18K gold | Most affordable |
Which metal should you choose?
- For an engagement ring or a piece worn every day: 18K gold or PT950 platinum.
- For a white look that never needs plating: PT950 platinum.
- For a warm or romantic tone: 18K yellow or rose gold.
- For a first piece, a gift or a trend-led design: sterling silver.
You can switch between metals on each product page, and the price updates to match your choice. Every piece is made to order and produced in 10 working days. Questions about a metal or a design? Email aetheristechhk@gmail.com before you order.
Comparing just the two white metals? See PT950 vs S925. Reading a stamp inside a band? See jewelry stamps explained.