Mixing metals, like gold and silver, is more than acceptable; it’s one of the hottest jewelry trends. Still, those who are new to it may struggle to achieve the ideal aesthetic. A mixed metal piece can help.
Mixed metal pieces, single pieces that feature both gold and silver, bring your look together, working as an anchor for your combo. The question is, what is the best way to wear them to establish the style? This mixed metal jewelry guide looks at various trends and provides tips on how to wear them.
1. Mixed metal earrings
Mixed metal earrings may feature gold on the top and silver on the bottom, a dangling mixed metal braid, or a silver post with gold charms. They add interest without becoming ornate.
When it comes to tips for mixing metals, they are a perfect entry point for people starting out, because they set the stage for necklaces and establish an aesthetic that can carry over to your rings and bracelets. Pair them with a short mixed-metal chain or choker to ensure your style is intentional, and continue with other silver and gold pieces, choosing one lead metal and one accent metal.
2. Mixed metal necklaces
The best mixed metal necklaces can feature a braided chain of gold and silver, alternating links, or a variety of charms. While they can stand on their own, their real power lies in layering.
When layering, consider starting with a mixed metal necklace as your base. Then add two necklaces in your lead metal and one in your accent metal, to create a deliberate and sophisticated aesthetic.
3. Mixed metal rings
Rings can bring a mixed metal look together, whether stacked or spaced across your fingers. When stacking, consider making a mixed metal ring your base; then add a couple of rings that represent your lead metal, and an additional one as your accent metal. If you're spreading your rings across your fingers, place your mixed metal ring on your middle finger, and build your other rings around it.
When it comes to style, the possibilities are endless. Mixed metal rings may feature multiple bands, a different-metal charm, or a gold pattern within a silver pattern (and vice versa).
4. Mixed metal bangles
Bangles are a natural for mixed metal looks, because they are often worn with a slightly chaotic aesthetic that combines colors and textures. Additionally, because they are rigid, they stay in place to maintain order in your silver and gold mixing style, unlike chain bracelets that shift around.
A mixed-metal bangle can be worn alone to bring together your rings and necklace looks, or layered with other single-metal bangles. Follow the suggested guidelines for establishing your lead and accent metals to create an effortless style.
5. Two tone layered necklaces
When layering necklaces in mixed metal trends, you risk overdoing it with one metal, underdoing it with another, or creating something that feels unplanned. Two-tone layered necklaces solve this problem. The tension between tones and lengths is pre-built by the designer.
Since the piece is pre-styled, there's little you need to do with the necklace itself. However, you should produce cohesion by mixing metals in your bracelets, earrings, and rings.
6. Mixed metal cuff bracelets
An open cuff with mixed metals, such as a gold band with a silver design, produces a sculptural look that draws the eye and brings other jewelry tones together. It sits prominently to create a style statement.
While the cuffs themselves can be layered with other bracelets, we don’t recommend it. They tend to be thick, so adding pieces may be overdoing it. And even with thinner cuffs, bangles and chains can move around them, interfering with an intentional pattern.
7. Mixed metal chain bracelets
These bracelets may feature a prominent clasp in an accent metal or links of different metal tones. They bring a slightly less casual layered energy than a bangle or cuff but still contribute to the style.
As the best mixed-metals bracelet for adding subtle continuity, chain bracelets work well alongside larger pieces, though their small size and tendency to shift make them less suited to anchoring a full layered pattern. However, they can help establish continuity and won’t overwhelm a look already dominated by large jewelry pieces.
8. Mixed metal charm necklaces
While styles can vary, a mixed metal charm necklace typically refers to a chain that represents one metal, and a charm that represents another. However, the mixed metals can also be integrated throughout the necklace.
Because charm necklaces tend to sit close to the neck, they can be a great anchor piece if you’re wondering how to layer a gold and silver necklace. They also work well for creating cohesion in outfits that feature multiple gold and silver adjacent tones.
9. Mixed metal earring stacks
Earring stacks are the latest trend and can consist of multiple piercings and cuffs. With mixed metals, earrings may be gold, silver, or a combination of both.
To make your two-tone earring stack more impactful, start with a mixed metal earring and build around it. Ensure you establish your lead metal, and work in your accent metal as you see fit, whether on your lobe, your helix, or your conch.
10. Mixed metal charm bracelets
As with charm necklaces, charm bracelets often feature a charm that differs from the chain, although both metals can be featured throughout. How you layer gold and silver bracelets depends on the bracelet type.
For example, cuff bracelets are best as an establishing statement piece, while chain bracelets accent a look well, but aren’t ideal for layering. Consider your combinations carefully to support an intentional aesthetic.
If you're looking for a mixed metal piece that already comes combined, the best option is Artizan Joyería, where every mixed metal piece is designed to do the mixing for you.
FAQs
What mixed metal piece should I buy first?
While the mixed metal piece you buy first can vary, we recommend starting with a necklace or earrings. They tend to anchor your other gold and silver pieces, giving you something to build on.
How do I choose the right metal piece for me?
There are various factors to consider when choosing the right metal piece, such as your personal style and your current jewelry selection. Ensure the piece fits well, which is especially important with rings and bracelets.
How do I keep a mixed metal piece looking new?
Jewelry polish can help maintain mixed metal pieces and keep them looking new, but avoid any that are specifically for gold or silver. You can also use gentle soap and a microfiber cloth. Wear and storage are important as well- take your jewelry off before any rigorous activity, avoid moisture and chlorine, and store it in a soft pouch.
