Stainless steel is a metal alloy composed of iron and chromium. It's also sometimes called inoxidizable steel or non-ferrous metal. This type of metal has been used in making jewelry since the 1930s.
Still, it wasn't until recently that it became more widely available on the market, in large part due to its durability and resistance to tarnishing. This article will look at stainless steel as an ideal choice for fashion jewelry components.
The Craze for Affordable Costume Jewelry
A recent survey revealed that the global costume jewelry market reached US$ 30.78 Billion in 2021. It is expected to reach US$ 47.13 Billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 7.36% between 2021 and 2027. This isn't surprising, given the craze for costume jewelry. The craze is mainly attributed to the rise of social media and the era of influencers.
With everyone wishing to copy and follow the trend but within the budget, stainless steel costume jewelry saves the day. It's more affordable than gold, silver, and other precious metals. Most importantly, it's also aesthetically pleasing. Let's explore more amazing characteristics of stainless steel jewelry.
Stainless Steel can be Hyperallergic
Stainless steel is a hypoallergenic metal and not a common allergen. It is also not a common irritant in most people. However, it should be noted that only high-quality stainless steel is hyperallergic, as standard stainless steel contains traces of nickel, to which 18% of North America are allergic.
So if you are sensitive to metal, get costume jewelry made of high-quality stainless steel. Or make sure that no nickel has been used in making the piece or buy it from a seller who guarantees this fact.
Stainless Steel Is Easily Malleable
Stainless steel can be easily shaped and bent. This is because of its malleability, which makes it ideal for creating custom-made jewelry. The material is easy to cut and drill, meaning that even the most intricate designs are possible with stainless steel.
The best part is you can easily personalize the jewelry to your liking. Ask the seller or custom-made jeweler to etch special dates, initials, or words on your jewelry. They'll make use of stainless steel laser engraving.
Stainless steel laser engraving makes it easy for the jeweler to create a high-quality, permanent image or engraving on your jewelry. This is great if you want to make your extra jewelry special. It helps commemorate special occasions, such as birthdays and anniversaries, with a personalized gift that will last a lifetime.
Stainless Steel Jewelry Keeps Its Shine for Years
First, it is essential to understand that high-quality stainless steel is made from a minimum of 10% chromium, carbon, and other alloying elements. This gives the material its corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for fashion jewelry.
For instance, wearing a piece of stainless steel jewelry in contact with your skin or sweat regularly will not rust or tarnish because of this element in the alloy mix.
Stainless Steel Does Not Tarnish as Other Metals Do Over Time
As the name suggests, stainless steel is a metal that does not tarnish. It has an alloy of chromium, making it resistant to corrosion and rust. This makes it ideal for fashion jewelry because you can enjoy wearing it without worrying about discoloration or damage.
For example, if you have gold jewelry in which copper is present, over time, this will oxidize, causing it to start turning black and look worn out much faster than regular gold would do.
Alternatively, stainless steel will not tarnish in the same way. You can enjoy wearing your silver jewelry for longer without worrying about losing its luster or getting any stains.
Stainless Steel Withstands Both High and Low Temperatures
Stainless steel is the most common type of metal used in fashion jewelry. It is resistant to corrosion and can be used in a wide range of high and low temperatures. Here's how it works:
Let's say you want to put on a stainless steel ring or other jewelry while cooking dinner or even sweating at the gym. That would be fine! You don't have to worry about your stainless steel losing its shine or getting damaged by heat because it doesn't oxidize like other metals when exposed to high temperatures for long periods.
On the other hand, if you were planning on wearing your favorite watch during an ice-hockey match and then swimming afterward. Then that wouldn't work out so well. Moisture can damage watches made from different materials than stainless steel, such as titanium.
Stainless Steel Is Durable and Sturdy
Stainless steel jewelry is strong and durable. It is a hard material that doesn't bend, dent, or scratch easily. The jewelry made of stainless steel can be given any shape and form, from finger rings to neck pieces, and it will last for years.
Even though stainless steel is strong, it can still be molded into intricate designs to have the most beautiful piece of jewelry that perfectly reflects your personality. This makes stainless steel ideal for fashion jewelry and accessories like belts, chains, etc.
Hollywood stars like Angelina Jolie and Sandra Bullock love to wear stylish stainless steel accessories with their designer clothes!
Stainless Steel Is Scratch Resistant
One of the main reasons stainless steel is a good choice for fashion jewelry is that it's highly resistant to scratching and rusting. This means you can have stainless steel earrings in your ears for years without worrying about them deteriorating or getting damaged by rubbing against other objects.
In contrast, other types of metal, such as silver and gold, are not nearly as resistant to this kind of damage. Silver tarnishes over time if it comes in contact with certain chemicals found in things like lotions or hair spray, while gold will scratch if it's worn regularly on the same spot as an engagement ring.
Conclusion
Stainless steel is an excellent choice for fashion jewelry. It's durable, waterproof, and doesn't tarnish quickly. It's also affordable and hypoallergenic, so it won't irritate your skin like some metals.
There are only two reasons you might not want to use stainless steel in your next project: cost and availability. If money isn't an issue, then go right ahead! But if you're looking for something more affordable than gold or silver alternatives, then consider trying aluminum instead.