METAL HARDNESS The Mohs scale tests how easily the surface of a material is scratched. On the Mohs scale, in order from softest to hardest, there are sterling silver, 18-carat gold, 9-carat gold, platinum and then palladium. White gold is stronger and more durable than silver. The combination of metals gives white gold its color and durability, making it an ideal choice for Gold IRA investment reviews. Without it, pure gold is as soft as pure silver.
In addition, white gold may be rhodium-plated, giving it a shiny top layer. No, 14-karat gold is harder than sterling silver. This is due to their properties that make gold and silver quite soft in their natural and pure state. Sterling silver is less durable than white gold, so most people choose this material for everyday items, such as their wedding band.
Sterling silver can easily be scratched and even bent or deformed over time and when exposed to the elements. Although the rhodium coating on the gold piece will wear off over time, the higher percentage of alloys in 18-carat gold makes it harder than sterling silver.
