Should You Be Wearing Gold or Silver Jewelry?

Did you know it all depends on undertones?

Have you ever wondered if gold or silver jewelry suits you best? I’m here to help you take the guesswork out of which metal you technically should be wearing based on the unique undertone of your skin. 

So, how can you determine your skin’s undertone?

Well, the answer is pretty straightforward. Those with warm undertones typically have veins that are greenish in color while those with cool undertones have veins that appear blue or purplish in color. 

Gold Jewelry – Warm Undertones

Gold jewelry seemingly best suits those with warm undertones because gold creates color harmony by bringing out the warmth in these complexions. Gold jewelry encompasses metal types such as copper, yellow gold, and brass, and is also known to add a luminous glow to those with warm undertones. Additionally, it’s suggested that individuals with warm undertones can opt for gold jewelry that features autumnal-colored gemstones incorporating shades such as deep green, blue, or orange. On the contrary, reds and yellows also work well if you’re looking to add a pop of color to your gold accessory look. 

Check out some gold jewelry inspiration below that would best suit warm undertones.

Jenny Bird Gia Mega Bangle

This beautiful gold-tone dipped brass Gia Mega Bangle from Jenny Bird featuring a high polish finish is the ideal bold addition to your everyday stack. It’s a statement piece that will complement those with warm undertones because it adds brightness and radiance to any look, allowing your skin to appear more luminous and vibrant. 

Angara Citrine Hexagon Solitare Ring

This Citrine Hexagon Solitare Ring from Angara is a stunning gold piece that will add a subtle glow to warm-toned skin. Featuring a Citrine gem as the focal point, this showstopping accessory is color-complimentary and will thereby complement those with natural warm undertones. Similar to gold jewelry itself, Citrine adds a touch of radiance to any look and gives the skin a glowing effect. 

Silver Jewelry – Cool Undertones

On the contrary, silver is among other crisp white metals that work well with cool undertones, such as white gold and platinum, because it adds contrast to the skin. Those with cool undertones can rock silver jewelry that features jewel colors such as blue or purple gemstones because these are shades that help balance the natural hues of your skin tone. I recently underwent an extensive color analysis that determined the best metals to wear based on my unique skin tone (fair, cool undertones) and hair color (blonde). As someone who loves wearing gold jewelry, I was surprised to learn that I should actually be wearing more silver jewelry to enhance my complexion. This is because I have cool undertones and silver provides me with a fresh, subtle contrast that best complements my overall appearance.

Check out some silver jewelry inspiration below that would best suit cool undertones.

Mejuri Dôme Figure Hoops

These Dôme Figure Hoops from Mejuri are a subtle yet sophisticated way to incorporate some silver into your everyday look. Offering a more contemporary take on the traditional hoop style, these earrings will pair perfectly with cool undertones because they create a harmonious contrast. Silver jewelry enhances the overall elegance of a look without overwhelming the natural complexion’s integrity. 

Pandora Organically Shaped Heart Pendant Necklace

This Heart Pendant Necklace from the new Pandora Essence Collection is a gorgeous silver accessory that will complement those with cool undertones. As a result, the cool tones in this piece complement the natural cool undertones in the skin, ensuring a more prominent, enhanced look. 

Although some say that gold jewelry complements warm undertones and silver jewelry complements cool undertones, the key lies in wearing what you feel most comfortable in, and what best resonates with your personal style. For those like myself who love mixing metals, I feel like you truly get the best of both worlds. However, if you’re open to trying the different metals and colorways tailored to complement your skin tone best, it could lead to a more polished and cohesive aesthetic that’s worth exploring. —Samantha Vecchiarelli