All about non-precious metals

In the jewelry world, Gold and Silver are the two most used noble metals. But there are also very beautiful non-precious metals that bring all their charm to DIY costume jewelry. Silver or gold metal, they also have their advantages. Discover them!

STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel or stainless steel is a ferrous metal alloy. It consists of 50% iron, a minimum of 10.5% chromium and a maximum of 1.2% carbon. Nickel, copper, molybdenum, tungsten or silicon are added to improve its resistance, its stability at high temperatures, or its mechanical properties.
It is a very popular metal in many fields for its multiple advantages, including the manufacture of jewelry. Indeed, it is hypoallergenic, it is very resistant, it requires little maintenance, it is completely recyclable. What more could you ask for!
There are different types of stainless steel, such as 201 steel, 304 steel or 316 steel. They all have their advantages and disadvantages. To learn more, we invite you to consult our practical sheet on thecharacteristics of stainless steel.
Please note: there is also gold-plated stainless steel to satisfy all your desires!

ALUMINIUM

Aluminum comes from a mineral: red bauxite. It is a light metal that resists corrosion. It is malleable, it can be worked at low temperature, and it can be deformed without breaking. It is a metal that tolerates galvanization very well. In addition, aluminum is 100% recyclable.
To improve its polish, resistance to corrosion, heat and wear, and to give it a color, we proceed to an Anodization. This is an electrolytic treatment applied to light materials.

ZAMAC

What is zamac?Zamac or zamak is an alloy composed of 95% zinc, aluminum, magnesium and copper.
Zamac has many advantages: it is resistant and easy to work. Because it is made of natural materials, it is a durable metal and is infinitely recyclable.
Lighter than stainless steel, it has similar characteristics.
Moreover, it is hypoallergenic and nickel-free. People with sensitive skin can wear zamac jewelry without any problem.

COPPER

Copper is a metal in its own right and not an alloy. Like silver, pure copper is a soft metal. Very malleable, it can be worked and cut without difficulty.
It is easy to clean, which is a great advantage since it is a metal that oxidizes very quickly.
But what we love most aboutcopper jewelry is its rose gold color.

BRONZE

Bronze is an alloy of copper (over 65%) and tin. We like its "aged" aspect which gives a jewel a timeless vintage charm. When it is well polished, it has a nice gold color. What to make DIY jewelry with a precious and bright look without breaking the bank!
Both strong and light, it will develop a patina over time. It is therefore the ideal metal to make retro jewelry with the charm of yesteryear.

ZINC

Zinc is often used in an alloy to protect metals from corrosion. This is why it is often found in the composition of certain alloys.
Nevertheless, it is a shiny non-ferrous metal whose color resembles that of silver. Moreover, it is malleable at high temperatures, easy to work with and 100% recyclable. It is also easy to maintain: it does not absorb water.

BRASS

Brass is one of the metals used in jewelry. It is an alloy of golden color, composed of copper and zinc. Its composition makes it ideal for starting out in jewelry, as it is low cost and can be worked like silver or gold. It can be cut, sawn, polished, soldered... and even engraved!
Brass is also a medium that lends itself very well to electroplating (plating on metal). It can be finished with a Rhodium plating, 24K gold plating, or simply gold or silver plating.
Does brass jewelry turn black? Made of copper and zinc, brass jewelry can tarnish over time, especially if you don't wear it. To recover it, you can clean it with a little soapy water, or with toothpaste on a soft toothbrush, or with baking soda.
Does brass oxidize? Brass can oxidize when in contact with skin with a slightly too acidic PH or simply with the ambient air. To preserve your brass jewelry, we recommend cleaning it with a soft cloth and storing it in your jewelry box.

TITANIUM

Both strong and light, titanium is highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Ductile and malleable, it is often compared to steel. Moreover, it is a hypoallergenic and bio-compatible metal in the same way as gold or platinum.
As with aluminum, titanium undergoes an anodization process. This is a surface treatment applied to light materials. This improves the polish, the resistance to wear, corrosion and heat, and allows it to be tinted.