Do you ever wonder whether gold or silver jewellery suits you best? You’re not alone.
Before we get into it, let me just say this: jewellery is about joy. I’m a big believer that you should wear what you love – regardless of “rules.” But if you’re interested in why certain metals might naturally enhance your skin tone more than others, read on.
Understanding Your Skin Undertone
The first step in deciding between gold and silver is figuring out your skin undertone. This isn’t about whether your skin is light, medium, or dark, your undertone refers to the subtle colour beneath the surface of your skin.
Most people fall into one of three undertone categories: warm, cool, or neutral.
Your skin tone may deepen or lighten with the seasons, but your undertone will stay the same all year round.
Here are a few easy ways to determine yours:
- Sun Test ☀️
- If you tan easily, you likely have a warm undertone.
- If you burn easily, you probably have a cool undertone.
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If you burn first, then tan, you’re likely neutral.
- Vein Test 💙💚
- Look at the veins on your inner wrist in natural daylight.
- If they appear more blue or purple → cool undertone.
- If they appear more green → warm undertone.
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If you can’t quite tell and they look like a mix → neutral undertone.
- White Fabric Test 🤍
- Hold a pure white top or sheet of paper against your face.
- If your skin looks slightly rosy or pink, you’re cool toned.
- If your skin looks more golden or yellow, you’re warm toned.
- If both bright white and creamy white suit you equally, you’re likely neutral.
Does Your Undertone Change Over Time?
Not really. While the colour of your skin can change over the years (perhaps from sun exposure or natural ageing), your undertone will stay the same.
Gold Jewellery vs Silver Jewellery – Which Will Suit You Best?
- Warm undertones tend to look incredible in gold jewellery – especially yellow gold and rich, warm gold vermeil.
- Cool undertones often shine in silver, platinum, or white gold.
- Neutral undertones can usually wear both metals beautifully.
Gold Jewellery Picks for Warm Undertones
For warm-toned skin, our Gold Vermeil Oval Huggie Earrings offer a sleek, minimalist hoop in radiant 14ct gold over recycled sterling silver, perfect for everyday elegance. If you’d like a piece with a hint of natural colour, the Gold Vermeil & Amazonite Round Stud Earrings pair a soft, calming amazonite gem with a classic gold vermeil setting for a modern yet timeless look. And for something playful and versatile, our Gold Vermeil Baroque Pearl Huggie Earrings, complete with detachable pearls, let you go from understated hoop to elegant pearl-drop in seconds.
Silver Jewellery Picks for Cool Undertones
If you have a rosy or fair complexion, silver jewellery has a way of brightening your look while adding an effortless sense of balance. Our Sterling Silver and Rainbow Moonstone Flower Huggie Earrings bring a soft, iridescent glow that’s perfect for everyday elegance, while the Sterling Silver T-Bar Pendant Necklace offers a sleek, modern touch that works seamlessly with any outfit.
What About Darker Skin Tones?
One of the best things about deeper skin tones is that both gold and silver look stunning. Gold offers a bold, rich contrast, while silver creates a sleek, modern edge. Why not mix both for a fresh, contemporary look?
Can Clothing Colours Influence Which Metal Suits You?
Absolutely! What you wear can make a big difference.
- Cool tones in clothing (think icy blues, lavender, emerald green) pair beautifully with silver.
- Warm tones (mustard, terracotta, burgundy) are enhanced by gold.
- Neutrals like black, white, and beige? Either metal works – or combine both for a modern mixed-metal style.
The Case for Mixing Metals
Mixing gold and silver jewellery is one of our favourite styling tricks. It adds depth, contrast, and personality to your look - and the best part is, you don’t have to choose just one. Layering different metals together creates a fresh, modern vibe that works for both casual outfits and dressed-up occasions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between gold and silver jewellery doesn’t have to be about rules, it’s about what makes you feel your best. Whether you’re a die-hard gold lover, a silver devotee, or a happy metal mixer, there’s no wrong answer.
Explore our Gold Jewellery Collection and Silver Jewellery Collection to find pieces that suit your style – and your skin tone – perfectly.