Common Types of Fashion Jewelry Metals & Alloys

Fashion jewelry is made from a variety of materials, each offering distinct properties such as hardness, cost, oxidation resistance, and brightness. To customize fashion jewelry effectively, it's essential to understand these materials and choose the ones that best match your desired qualities and budget.

1. zinc alloy

Zinc alloy, made primarily of zinc and elements like aluminum, copper, and magnesium, is widely used in fashion jewelry. It offers good casting performance, excellent corrosion resistance, and can undergo various surface treatments. Additionally, it is recyclable, aiding in resource conservation and environmental protection.

2. Copper

Copper is widely used in the fashion jewelry industry due to its natural antimicrobial properties, making it a popular choice for jewelry worn close to the skin. Common copper materials include copper alloys, copper chains, and copper sheets.


Copper Alloys: These are often used in jewelry due to their enhanced strength and durability. Brass (copper and zinc) and bronze (copper and tin) are popular choices.

Copper Chains: Known for their flexibility and strength, copper chains are often used for necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. They can be easily plated with other metals for different finishes.

Copper Sheets: These are used in various jewelry applications, including creating unique, hand-cut designs. They can be hammered, textured, or etched to add decorative elements to the jewelry pieces.

3. iron

Comparatively, iron holds its importance in fashion jewelry alongside brass and zinc. Despite its susceptibility to oxidation and rust, iron's affordability and unique aesthetic qualities make it a significant material choice for crafting distinct pieces within the fashion jewelry industry.

Common iron materials include iron chains and iron sheets.

Iron chains：
 Iron Chains are often used in fashion jewelry for their strength and durability. They can add a rugged or industrial aesthetic to jewelry pieces. Due to their tendency to oxidize and rust, they are typically coated with protective layers or treated with anti-corrosion finishes to prolong their lifespan. Iron chains are versatile and can be used in necklaces, bracelets, and anklets, providing a sturdy base for various decorative elements.

Iron sheets：
Iron sheets are flat pieces of iron used to create jewelry components like pendants and earrings. Despite their susceptibility to rust, they offer malleability for intricate designs and unique looks. Often coated to prevent corrosion, they're favored for their affordability and distinctive appearance in fashion jewelry.

4. stainless steel

Stainless steel is gaining popularity for jewelry due to its superior durability compared to other metals. It has strong resistance to chemicals, the environment, and water. 304 and 316L are the most commonly used. Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance compared to zinc alloy, copper, and iron. However, its higher cost and rigid nature restrict its versatility as a workpiece, limiting design options.

Understanding these material can help in making informed decisions when customizing and designing fashion jewelry.