You might have heard of the unspoken rule to never mix your metals, but that’s only because some are afraid of the challenge. The mixing of different metal jewelry involves wearing more than one type of metal jewelry whether that be basic metal pieces and or mixed metal pieces. People make it harder than it seems, but mixing metals will elevate your style and it's easier than it looks.

Balance

You never want too much or too little, which is why you want just the right balance. Avoid having one metal overpower the other(s). If you have four gold rings and one silver, it will disrupt the flow of the style and make it look unnatural. Even out the use of different metals throughout your outfit or pick a dominant metal to start and then add others that are complementary to the outfit and accents the other jewelry well.

Woman wearing mixed metal jewelry
Woman wearing mixed metal jewelry

Opposites Attract: Size, Texture, and Finishes

When personalizing your look, mixing statement and simple pieces as well as different textures and finishes adds dimension to your style. Try combining the chunky statements and delicate chains or add hammered, brushed, and high-polished surfaces to create a fascinating contrast and give each piece its own spotlight. Experiment with your collection and find the combination that reflects your personal flair.

All Metal Gold Chains
All Metal Gold Chains

Don't Forget the Bling

It doesn’t have to be all gold and silver all the time. Add some gems to the mix and it will make you look outstanding. The most important thing to keep in mind is harmonization between the metal colors and gemstone hues. This is where the color wheel you learned a while back comes in handy. Here are a couple examples:

  • Warm-toned metals like yellow gold and rose gold complement gemstones with warm colors like citrine, ruby, or garnet
  • Cool-toned metals like white gold or platinum pair beautifully with gemstones like sapphire, aquamarine, or amethyst.
Gold and Silver Gemstone Jewelry
Gold and Silver Gemstone Jewelry

These combinations of metals and gemstones are stunning and seamless, but metals are not the only thing you can mix and match. Add in more than one type of gemstone or even bi-color gemstones. There are endless combinations with different metals and gemstones. Explore the possibilities of mixing and matching jewelry and discover the fusion of metals and gems that fits you best.

Invest in Basic Metal Pieces

If you find the mixing and matching of different metals to be stressful or are a beginner but still want to pull off the look, basic metal pieces make it easy. Basic metal pieces include stackable rings, chains, stud earrings, and more. It’s simple, elegant, and goes with everything, including different metals.

All Metal Silver Earrings
All Metal Silver Earrings

Complementary Metals

The most common metal combination you see is gold and silver, however, if you want to venture out, here are some metals that complement each other beautifully.

Yellow Gold and Rose Gold

Gold comes in more than one color and when you mix yellow and rose, it creates a luxurious and romantic look. These metals work well with warm skin tones, adding a radiant glow. They also complement earthy and warm-colored outfits, such as shades of brown, orange, and red.

Silver and Blackened Silvers

The contrast between regular silver and blackened silver, which is oxidized to create a darkened effect, can result in edgy and sophisticated pieces. This pairing is versatile and suits most skin tones, as it strikes a balance between warm and cool tones. It complements both casual and edgy outfits, as well as monochromatic and darker shades.

Copper and Brass

Both copper and brass have warm, earthy tones that blend beautifully together. This combination can add a rustic and bohemian feel to your jewelry designs while pairing well with yellow, peach, or olive undertones and earthy, warm-tone outfits.

Mixed Metal Pieces

Mixing is made easy with mixed metal pieces. Two-tone and tri-tone pieces incorporate different metals into one piece of jewelry, basically doing the work for you. Mixed metal pieces match just about every skin tone and a variety of outfits, just make sure to use the same metal combination throughout the look and you’re good to go.

Placement

Now you know how and what to mix and match, it’s time to discuss where. When mixing your metals, it’s important to keep in mind the placement in the four regions: neck, ears, wrists, and fingers. You want to spread the jewelry evenly throughout. However, if you’re looking to heavily accessorize, it’s best to do it in one area and then choose a metal that you’ve used to scatter throughout the rest of your look. For example, if you choose to wear gold and silver rings and bangle bracelets and you want to add more accessories, it’s best to choose a gold or silver simple chain necklace or a pair of delicate earrings.

Woman wearing gold and silver jewelry
Woman wearing gold and silver jewelry

Mixed Metal Rings

Mixed metal rings showcase a harmonious fusion of colors, textures and finishes, making them a true statement of individuality. Stacking your rings is a great way to personalize your style. If you’re going for a minimalistic approach, start with a couple understated mixed metal rings on one finger and keep the stacks simple with delicate bands that complement the mixed metal piece. Don’t be afraid to add in some gemstones and create your own look.

Stackable Diamond Rings
Stackable Diamond Rings

Mixed Metal Earrings

A pair of dangling earrings with a mix of warm and cool-toned metals or studs featuring textured surfaces and polished accents can go a long way. Spruce up the classic hoops by pairing thick with thin and dangling with varying lengths and textures. You could even go geometric and experiment with shapes or other simple designs. For those with multiple piercings, choose a statement piece and then accent with delicate studs, cuffs, or smaller hoops. Mixed metal earrings offer endless possibilities for expressing personal style.

Mixed Metal Earrings
Mixed Metal Earrings

Mixed Metal Bracelets

Bangles, chains, station, tennis and more, there’s a variety of bracelets that are waiting to be worn. Wrap your wrist with color, texture, and style with the infinite combinations of mixed metal bracelets, but don’t forget the watches. Watches are also a great way to spice up the style. While wearing both bracelets and watches, allow the bracelets to complement rather than overpower the watch.

Mixed Metal Bracelets
Mixed Metal Bracelets

Mixed Metal Necklaces

Layering couldn’t be easier with necklaces. Start with a choker or a short pendant necklace in one metal, then add longer necklaces in contrasting metals to build a multi-dimensional and on-trend look. You can go for a simple look with a single mixed metal necklace or you can go bold with varying thickness and even pendants. Pair chunky with delicate and discover new ways to adorn yourself.

Mixed Metal Necklaces
Mixed Metal Necklaces

How to Clean and Care For Your Mixed Metal Jewelry

By following these tips, you’ll maintain the unique charm and appeal of your mixed metal pieces.

  • Use a simple cleaning solution of mild water mixed with dish soap.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals that could potentially discolor the jewelry. 
  • Gently scrub the jewelry with a toothbrush and then dry it using a soft cloth.
  • While using water is acceptable for cleaning, be cautious not to leave the pieces immersed in water for an extended period. This includes showering, swimming, or any activities that could cause excessive sweating.
     
Tools to Clean Mixed Metal Jewelry
Tools to Clean Mixed Metal Jewelry

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to mix metals in jewelry? 

Of course! Mixing metals is not breaking the fashion rule book.

Does mixing metals look good?

Yes! Pick out your favorite metals and mix and match however you’d like. If you follow the tips above, you’ll be sure to exude an elegant look. However, you’re entitled to your own style and should wear whatever makes you feel confident.

Can you mix gold and silver to make jewelry?

Yes, you can mix gold and silver to make jewelry. You can also add in platinum, copper, stainless steel, and many other metals in the mix!

Can you mix silver and stainless steel jewelry?

Yes. Mixing silver and stainless steel jewelry can create a seamless or contrasting effect depending on the colors you choose.

Wear It With Style: Mixing Metal Jewelry

The beauty of mixed metal jewelry lies in their versatility, allowing you to express your unique style and creativity. Don't be afraid to mix and match metals and experiment with different combinations until you find the one that resonates with your individual taste.

Anna Anderson

Anna loves wearing gold jewelry, but her all time favorite jewelry piece features a silver dancing pig pendant.

Read more about Anna on her author page

Anna Anderson
Author