Two-tone silver combines silver with another metal, often yellow gold, to create contrast and detail in jewelry, watches, cufflinks, and dinnerware. Sterling silver is the base metal, mixed with copper, zinc, germanium, or platinum for stability and functionality. Designs can include gold accents, diamonds, and gemstones. Formal tableware can also be created with two-tone silver.
A two-tone silver effect is achieved by combining silver with any other type of metal, typically of a different color and luster. Silver is commonly paired with yellow gold, which is between 10 and 24 karats in purity, providing a high degree of contrast to the lighter metal. This effect can be used on any type of metalwork, and often shows up on jewelry and dinnerware. Men can find such multicolored jewelry creations in the form of watches, cufflinks, and tie clips.
Sterling silver is the type of metal that forms the base for two-tone silver pieces and projects. This metal is almost 93% pure silver and is mixed with other metals to increase its stability and casting properties. Copper is often the first metal chosen to be paired with silver to increase its functionality, and other options include zinc, germanium, and platinum. These metals can be used to reduce the effects of tarnishing, as well as to eliminate burning.
A wide variety of designs can be completed using two-tone silver. The silver component can be the background of the piece in general, presenting small details accentuated in yellow gold. Animal shapes, school and club crests, plants, and insignia are common choices for gold accents affixed to silver jewelry. Diamonds can also be added to these types of jewelry pieces, and the two-tone work can form the base for a gemstone or pearl.
Watches, charm bracelets, and cufflinks often use two-tone silver to accentuate different aspects of the individual pieces. Classic watch bands may encircle a yellow gold band with two silver bands, and may include a woven pattern. Charm bracelets are designed to hold multiple small pieces that use yellow gold to detail silver figures. Sterling silver cufflinks can be engraved with a yellow gold monogram, shield or insignia. This type of intricate design work can also be presented in matching tie clips.
Formal tableware is often created from two-tone silver. Forks, knives and spoons often have a sterling silver base, where the utensil is stored, and can be molded with the family crest or last name initial. The flat part of the piece is plated with gold on a base of silver or platinum. This type of cutlery is versatile and can be used with silver or gold chargers that form the foundation of a formal dining setting.
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