Gold or Silver Claddagh Ring? How to Choose
Choose sterling silver if you want a strong ring at a lower price, and choose gold if you want a ring that does not tarnish and you are happy to pay more. Both carry the Claddagh design equally well. This guide compares them so you can decide with the facts to hand.
What is sterling silver?
Sterling silver is an alloy that contains 92.5% silver. The rest is usually copper, which makes the metal hard enough for a ring. Pure silver is too soft for daily wear, so makers mix it with other metal.
You will see the number 925 stamped on sterling silver. That figure means 925 parts of silver in every 1,000. It is the standard fineness for sterling silver in the UK.
What is gold in a ring?
Gold for jewellery is also an alloy. The carat tells you how much of the metal is gold, out of 24 parts. A 9 carat ring is 9 parts gold, which is 37.5%, and an 18 carat ring is 18 parts gold, which is 75%.
The UK marks 9 carat gold with the number 375. A higher carat means more gold, a richer colour and a higher price. White gold is gold mixed with white metals, so it gives a silver look with the value of gold.
How do they compare?
The table sets the main points side by side.
| Sterling silver | Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Tarnish | Yes, over time | Much less |
| Strength | Good for daily wear | Depends on the carat |
| Colour | Bright white | Yellow, white or rose |
| Care | Polish now and then | Wash and wipe |
Silver tarnishes because it reacts with sulphur compounds in the air. A soft cloth removes light tarnish in seconds, as our jewellery care guide shows. Gold does not tarnish in the same way, although it can pick up scratches.
Which suits a Claddagh ring?
The Claddagh has fine detail in the hands, the heart and the crown. Silver shows that detail well, especially when the maker oxidises the recesses to add contrast. Gold gives a warm glow and often suits a ring you plan to keep for life.
For a first ring, or a gift for a friend, silver is a sensible choice because the price is kind. For an engagement or a wedding, many people prefer gold, since the ring may be worn for decades. Our guide to the meaning of the Claddagh ring explains why the design suits both.
What does a hallmark tell you?
A hallmark is a stamp that shows the metal has been tested. UK law says that silver items over 7.78 grams, and gold items over 1 gram, must carry a hallmark if you sell them as silver or gold. The hallmark has three compulsory marks: the maker’s mark, a number for the metal and purity, and the mark of one of the four UK Assay Offices.
Small items below those weights do not need a hallmark. A light silver ring may therefore have none, even though it is genuine sterling. If you are unsure, ask the seller to name the metal and the purity.
Other things to weigh up
- Skin and lifestyle. If you work with your hands, a strong ring in silver or a higher carat gold is practical.
- Budget. Silver costs far less, so you can afford a larger or more detailed design.
- Matching. If the wearer already owns jewellery in one metal, match it.
If the ring is for a man, our advice on choosing a Claddagh ring for men covers width and weight. For the position on the hand, see how to wear a Claddagh ring.
Questions people ask
Is silver good enough for a wedding ring?
Yes. Many couples choose silver for a wedding band, and it is easy to polish. However, it wears faster than a higher carat gold, so expect to polish it from time to time.
Does gold plating count as gold?
No. Gold plate is a thin layer over another metal. It can wear away with time, so it is not the same as solid gold.
Before you buy
Measure your finger with our ring size guide. Our delivery and returns page sets out the terms for when the shop opens. To learn about the symbols on your ring, read our Celtic symbols guide and the trinity knot and Celtic knot guides. The Claddagh ring history guide tells the full story.
Sources
- Claddagh ring
- sterling silver
- gold
- hallmark