Gold or silver? It’s an age-old debate, and everyone you ask will have a different answer. Whether it’s the timeless appeal of a classic tone, or the perception of gold as the superior colour (we blame the Olympics), many people default to gold-toned jewellery, but we promise, a stunning silver-coloured piece can perfectly capture elegance and sophisticated style to complete any ensemble. Read on to learn how to choose between gold and silver, and how you can have the best of both worlds.
Choose Your Metal
You may already have a favourite metal in your jewellery box. Some people know what suits them and their wardrobe, but if you’re unsure, there are easy ways to find the right metal for you.
The simplest way is to know your undertone, or the colour under the surface of your skin. Knowing your undertone can help you pick flattering clothing colours, make up and jewellery. To find your undertone, examine the veins in your wrist. Blue or purplish veins indicate a cool undertone, while greenish-yellow veins are typical of a warm undertone. If you can’t see your veins, you probably have a neutral undertone.
Silver jewellery is thought to compliment cool undertones, while gold jewellery is typically paired with warm undertones. These pairings are though to enhance your complexion and make your jewellery appear brighter and more beautiful. If you’re lucky enough to have neutral tones, both gold and silver tones should compliment your skin.
You can also choose your tone based on your hair or eye colour. Lighter colours tend to steer you towards silver to bring out blue eyes contrast with blonde hair, while darker eyes and hair are typically paired with bright golds.
Finishing Touch
Once you’ve chosen the metal for you, it’s time to talk about the finish. Finish refers to the techniques used to complete the outer surface of your piece, and often determines the texture and shine of your jewellery.
The most common is a polished finish that leaves a smooth, sleek, highly reflective surface. This timeless finish is the easiest to wear, and can be paired with outfits for any occasion. Simple and effortlessly stylish, these sophisticated pieces are perfect for elevating day wear or completing your evening look. Some of our favourites are the gold-toned Modern Long Drop Earrings, or the Mini Hoop Clip Earrings in stunning silver-coloured plating.
If you’re searching for something a little different, a battered finish creates a rougher, beaten look that is sure to catch the light. Try the striking Tempest Statement Necklace, or the Leaf Loop Earring to add texture to your outfit. You may also find a satin finish offers a more subtle style without the high shine of a polished piece. These finishes are more common in contemporary jewellery designs, and are perfect for bringing a unique touch of style to your look.
Colour In
Plain gold and silver tones are popular, but they are far from the only colours for jewellery. If a polished, metallic finish isn’t for you, Barcs Australia has plenty of colourful styles featuring glossy enamel, vibrant stones, and eye-catching beading, all beautiful options to add colour to your look.
Barcs Australia has options in almost any colour, set against both silver- and gold-coloured plating. Some colours, such as blue, are beautifully complemented by both silver- and gold-coloured settings - the Gem Dragonfly Brooch features gorgeous silver-coloured plating, while the Twinkle Pop Clip Earrings feature bright gold-coloured settings. Green hues, on the other hand, tend to look best set against gold-coloured plating, like the Cat Eye Pendulum Clip On Earrings.
Adding colour to your jewellery can affect how piece complement your outfit and your personal style, but ultimately there are no rules when pairing metals and colourful accents.
Two Tone
Why choose one when you could have both? If you love the polished shine of metallic jewellery but can’t choose between gold or silver, enjoy he best of both worlds with a gorgeous two-tone piece.These eye-catching styles feature both bright gold- and silver-coloured plating, capturing stunning shine and striking contrast to elevate your style.
Some of our favourite two-tone jewellery pieces are the Grainline Panel Clip On Earrings with its textured surface for a striking modern edge, or the Knotted Clip On Earrings, perfect for adding a subtle touch of shine to any look. For a bold two-tone statement, we suggest the gorgeous Valley Fold Cord Necklace or the 2 Tone Link Twist Necklace, which is sure to turn heads at any event.
In the endless debate over gold and silver metals, there is no real winner. While age-old tradition and emerging new trends may steer us one way or another, it’s important to remember these are guidelines, not rules. Instead, we encourage you to look at your own colours, find your own style, and curate a collection of jewellery pieces that make you look and feel your best.
Whether you love golden hues or silver tones, or simple adore anything that shines, the Barcs Australia collection has something for you. Shop now online, or in store at David Jones and Myer.
