by Jesus Zabala - 8 min read

How to Choose the Right Metal For Your Pinky Ring

Those following fashion trends for a long time know how important the right materials are. They influence not only the ring’s overall look but also its value. That’s why this article will focus on how to choose the right metal for your pinky ring.

We’ll go over the significance of pinky rings and what materials suit them best. Furthermore, you’ll discover why choosing the right metal has such big importance. By knowing the difference and how to choose the one suitable for you, you’ll combine them with all your gorgeous outfits.

Continue reading to discover the best materials for pinky rings and how to wear them!

What Metals Are Used For Pinky Rings

Pinky rings have been a fashion statement for many decades. Depicted in one of the most timeless classic movies like “The Godfather,” they often signify strength and loyalty.

Additionally, they’re used as a sign of professional and academic success.

The most common form in which you’ll find pinky rings today is signet rings. With various shapes, designs, and engravings, the most important decision is choosing the suitable metal.

Before choosing which one is right for you, there are several materials you should know. Thus, the most common metals used for crafting pinky rings are:

Brass
Silver
Yellow gold
White gold
Rose gold
Platinum

Brass

The first common metal for pinky rings you’ll come across is brass. It comes quite cheap, and it’s one of the three base metals used for crafting jewelry. Furthermore, brass rings offer many designs to fit your style and outfit.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting piece of jewelry, this metal is the right choice. Not only is it more durable than sterling silver, but it also gives off a vintage touch. However, one downside is that it's prone to oxidation, making it unsuitable for everyday use.

Those struggling with sweaty fingers or who often apply hand creams may also experience a green mark left behind after taking the ring off. To avoid this issue, we recommend you apply a nail vanisher or polymer barrier inside it. When you’re not wearing them, ensure you keep them safe in a designated jewelry box.

If you want a brass pinky ring, check out our amazing online collection! With many outstanding designs suitable for every style, you’ll surely find what you’re looking for.

You might be interested in: How to clean brass easily?

Silver

The second metal you should know of is silver. It’s often mixed with various other metals because it’s too soft with its 99% purity. Thus, most pinky rings are made of sterling silver, which is alloyed with copper. Even though it’s more expensive than brass, you can still find affordable jewelry made from silver.

Unlike many customized rings, you won’t have to worry about your skin getting irritated. Silver accessories are hypoallergenic and don’t cause redness and itching like other jewelry.

However, there are two disadvantages you should be aware of. First, it’s prone to the same oxidation process as brass. So when exposed to strong chemicals, cosmetics, sulfur, and humidity, it may turn black. To fix this problem quickly, you might want to invest in a silver jewelry cleaner.

Secondly, its softness has a disadvantage in everyday use. It can get easily dented and damaged even through the slightest impact. So if you decide to go for silver pinky rings, we recommend you wear them for special occasions and celebrations.

Gold

Gold is one of the most common types of metal used for luxurious jewelry. The art of crafting these accessories can be traced back to ancient times. So when it comes to pinky rings, the oldest gold signet rings can be found as far back as ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian cultures. Thus, this metal holds great value and is a hefty investment.

Most of the gold jewelry found on the market is alloyed due to the metal’s softness. Depending on the type you’re getting, most of the rings are mixed with silver, copper, and palladium.

Furthermore, the higher the caratage is in your product, the more gold it contains. So if you choose a 24K ring, you’ll notice the pure gold’s softness.

When choosing gold rings, the three main colors are yellow, white, and rose.

Yellow gold

Once used by merchants to engrave their seals in, these rings portray power, wealth, and strength in today's age. Thus, gold is always a good choice for a classic yet timeless fashion accessory.

Besides its natural beauty, you can also combine it with gemstones to achieve a sparkling effect. Furthermore, the price is flexible depending on the caratage you choose. Just don’t forget that it’s one of the most expensive metals on the market.

A unique benefit it offers is its natural ability to regulate body temperature. So these rings are often popular amongst those struggling with temperature-related issues. If you’ve been experiencing hot flashes or chills, investing in this jewelry may help.

Since this metal is also soft, it can sustain scratches and dents over time. Thus, it’s not recommended for everyday use. To maintain its natural shine and design, ensure you regularly polish it.

Another common issue gold jewelry users experience is the limited size. Since this metal has a distinct color, resizing it may be harder.

Pinky rings made of yellow gold

White gold

The second color of gold you’ll run into is white. Since it's designed to imitate platinum, most users are left in awe by its shiny white radiance. Even though it resembles this unique metal, the market still has affordable prices based on the caratage.

Moreover, it derives from yellow gold and silver or nickel. So you won’t experience any skin irritation when wearing it. But it does sustain the same damage as yellow gold, so watch out for dents and scratches.

Furthermore, the application of rhodium plating is required to keep its shine to the brightest over time.

That’s why we’ve noticed an increased popularity of white gold pinky rings. With various unique designs, these accessories have a subtle yet modern aesthetic.

However, please note that people with metal allergies may not be the best candidates for these rings. Since white gold is made from nickel, it may cause an allergic reaction.

Rose gold

One of the most unique kinds of gold is rose gold. Its eye-catching red and pink colors derive from mixing yellow gold and copper. When compared to yellow gold, this metal is far more durable due to its copper alloy. But you should always watch out for scratches and dents and regularly maintain it.

Like white gold, this metal is not hypoallergenic, so it may not be suitable for people with copper allergies. Plus, it’s prone to oxidation, so it’s not recommended for everyday use. Even though this luxurious jewelry is truly breathtaking, it should be saved for special occasions.

Another issue that may arise is the separation of the metals. This is caused when your ring is heated improperly. So you should always get this jewelry from a professional jewelry store to avoid this issue.

Platinum

The last and most expensive material you should know is platinum. Since it’s the rarest and purest metal, it’s the only material to craft jewelry with 95% purity. When other metals are added to the mix, it’s mostly small amounts of ruthenium and iridium.

Due to its purity, platinum is also the only truly hypoallergenic metal. So it’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy a luxurious metal without worrying about having an allergic reaction.

Furthermore, platinum is one of the strongest metals, weighing even more than gold. With its density and heat resistance, it can be used as an everyday accessory. But that doesn’t mean it’s scratch resistant. As with any other metal, you’ll have to watch out for any activities that may damage it.

How to Choose the Right Metal For Your Pinky Ring

After reviewing the most common materials used for crafting rings, the next step is to learn how to choose the right metal for your pinky ring. When choosing the right metal for a pinky ring, there are several elements you should remember. Besides your preference, you should also focus on:

Price
Skin sensitivity
Your skin tone
Your style
Matching the common colors in your wardrobe

Price

The first thing you should look into when buying a pinky ring is its price. Since different metals hold different values, you should be aware of your financial situation. For something more affordable, go for brass or silver pinky rings. They’re stylish and luxurious accessories that won’t burn a hole through your bank account.

However, if you want to invest in something long-lasting, gold and platinum are more appropriate. They can be used to craft signet rings with a family crest, which are later given down as heritage rings. Remember that the price of gold is highly based on its purity. So the higher the caratage, the higher the price.

Skin sensitivity

The second thing you should consider is your skin sensitivity. Many people have metal allergies that they aren’t aware of. This may result in a rash and skin irritation when choosing the unsuitable material.

So if you’re struggling with easily irritable skin, we highly recommend you choose a hypoallergenic ring. The best choice on the market is platinum rings, even if they’re really expensive. You can also try silver ones, which rarely cause any redness and itching.

Skin tone

When choosing the ideal metal for your pinky ring, you should pick one according to your skin tone. Those with paler and cooler skin tones should consider materials like white gold, silver, and platinum.

On the other hand, people with warmer colors usually go for yellow, gold, and brass. Choosing the suitable jewelry for your skin tone will add a subtle shine and make them stand out.

Personal style

Choosing the ideal metal for your pinky ring usually depends on personal preferences. Some people are more intrigued by rare designs, so they go for rose and white gold. Others want to showcase their prosperity by wearing a remarkable platinum ring. Those seeking a traditional and classy look mostly stick to brass and yellow gold.

If you want a simple yet elegant style, we don’t recommend you mix different types of metals. It may make your ring look worn out and disjointed.

Matching the common colors in the wardrobe

If you want your ring to make your outfit stand out, you should match its color to your clothes. First, you need to assess the dominant color in your outfit and then base your jewelry choice accordingly. You can also include some stylish options based on the season and weather.

When choosing the suitable pinky ring metal, always match it with the metals found on your other accessories. While it looks more aesthetically pleasing, it also gives you an additional elegant shine.

Matching the common colors in the wardrobe

Conclusion

A lot of thought goes into choosing the ideal metal for your pinky ring. Now that you’re informed about the most common types, you can pick the ones according to your need. Always remember to consider your skin's sensitivity and tone before you make the purchase.

Furthermore, the metals’ price is dependent on their rarity. If you truly want a unique accessory, be ready to make a hefty investment. Once you’ve bought it, always combine the color to match your clothing and style.

Lastly, we hope this article helps answer how to choose the right metal for your pinky ring. If you ever need inspiration for your next purchase, make sure to visit our online pinky ring store!