Diving into jewelry making is an exciting and creative journey, but it can also be a bit overwhelming to know where to start – especially when it comes to choosing metals. There are many factors to consider, and it can be hard to figure out which material best suits your project. Here we guide you through the most important considerations and answer some of the questions you may have.

First and foremost, you should think about what the piece of jewelry will be used for. Should it be an everyday piece that can withstand wear, or is it for a special occasion?

Our advice:

For everyday use, stainless steel can be an obvious choice, as it is hard-wearing and moisture-resistant, making it ideal for jewelry that is used often, such as bracelets, rings, necklaces, and earrings.

For festive occasions, brass can be a great choice. Gold-plated brass has a beautiful, golden look reminiscent of gold, while silver-plated or platinum-coated brass looks more like silver. Brass is the budget-friendly choice for jewelry that isn't meant to be worn all the time.

If you're looking for something timeless and exclusive, sterling silver is a favorite thanks to its classic look and high quality.

An important question is whether the piece of jewelry needs to withstand water, heat, or daily wear.

Our advice:

Stainless steel is extremely durable and withstands most things, including water. It's a great choice for jewelry such as rings or necklaces that are exposed to daily use.

Brass can develop a patina over time and take on a darker surface, but this can give the piece a vintage look. You can also polish it if you prefer a shiny finish.

Sterling silver can tarnish if exposed to moisture or chemicals, but a quick polish often makes it look like new again.

Tip: Also consider using waterproof jewelry materials if you want to ensure that the piece stays beautiful, even in wet conditions. Read more in our blog post about waterproof jewelry findings.

If the jewelry is to be worn by yourself or someone else with sensitive skin, this is an important factor.

Our advice:

Stainless steel is known to be hypoallergenic and is therefore a safe choice for most people.

Brass may contain traces of nickel, which some people are allergic to. If you know you're sensitive, choose a different metal.

Sterling silver is generally hypoallergenic, but always choose genuine sterling silver (925 marking) to avoid impurities.

All metals require some form of maintenance to preserve their beauty and durability.

Our advice:

Brass: To prevent patina, you can use a polishing cloth designed for brass. Alternatively, you can let it develop a patina for a rustic look.

Stainless steel: This metal is almost maintenance-free – simply a damp cloth can work wonders.

Sterling silver: Use a polishing cloth for sterling silver and store the jewelry in airtight bags to minimize tarnishing.

Today, many jewelry designers and buyers consider how their choices affect the environment.

Our advice:

Brass is often made from recycled materials, making it a more sustainable choice.

Stainless steel is a durable choice that doesn't need to be replaced often, and it can be recycled.

Sterling silver can be recycled and used again and again, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Choosing the metal for your jewelry depends on your needs, budget, and personal preferences. If you're looking for something durable and allergy-friendly, stainless steel is a safe winner. If you instead want something that looks exclusive at an affordable price, brass can be a great choice. And if you value quality and classic design highly, then go for sterling silver.

At Uniq Perler, we have a wide range of materials for jewelry making, so you can find what fits perfectly with your project. Do you have questions or need guidance, we're always ready to help you!