Practical Guide · 5 min
Precious
Metal Guide
The metal you choose affects the look, durability, and maintenance of your jewellery as much as the diamond itself. Here is everything you need to know to choose confidently.
Understanding Karats
Gold purity is measured in karats (kt or K). Pure gold is 24K — but pure gold is too soft for everyday jewellery. It is alloyed with other metals to increase hardness and change colour.
24K
99.9% gold
Too soft for jewellery
22K
91.7% gold
Temple jewellery, coins
18K
75% gold
Fine jewellery standard
14K
58.3% gold
Western fashion jewellery
Smilvin uses 18K gold and Platinum 950 for all pieces — the ideal balance of purity, durability, and hallmark compliance.
The Four Metals
18K White Gold
75% pure gold · Bright silver-white (rhodium-plated)
Durability
Excellent — harder than yellow gold due to alloys
Maintenance
Re-plate with rhodium every 2–3 years to maintain white colour
Best For
Classic engagement rings, diamonds (maximises brilliance of white stones)
Good to Know
Most popular choice for diamond engagement rings in India. Naturally a pale yellow — the white colour comes from rhodium plating.
18K Yellow Gold
75% pure gold · Warm, rich yellow
Durability
Good — slightly softer than white gold
Maintenance
Minimal — re-polish periodically to restore shine
Best For
Traditional and vintage-inspired designs, warm-toned diamonds (J–K colour)
Good to Know
The most hypoallergenic of the gold types. Works beautifully with diamonds that have a slight warmth (G–J colour).
18K Rose Gold
75% pure gold · Warm blush pink
Durability
Excellent — copper content makes it the most durable gold alloy
Maintenance
Minimal — does not require rhodium plating, colour is inherent
Best For
Romantic and modern designs, complements warm skin tones beautifully
Good to Know
The copper alloy can occasionally cause reactions in nickel-sensitive people — though rose gold itself contains no nickel. Growing rapidly in popularity.
Platinum 950
95% pure platinum · Natural white, slightly greyish
Durability
Outstanding — densest precious metal, prong tips last much longer
Maintenance
Develops a natural patina over time; can be polished to restore shine
Best For
Heirloom pieces, prong settings for high-value diamonds, allergy sufferers
Good to Know
Platinum does not lose metal when scratched — it displaces rather than removes. Considered the ultimate metal for fine diamond settings.