What is a base metal in jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Base metals are common metals that are not classified as precious, including copper, brass, zinc, nickel, tin and aluminium. In jewellery, base metals are used in fashion and costume pieces, often plated with gold or silver to give them the appearance of fine jewellery at a lower cost. They can cause skin reactions, particularly nickel, and may discolour the skin green or black over time, especially in humid conditions. For everyday wear against the skin, precious metals or certified hypoallergenic alternatives like titanium and niobium are generally preferable.
Frequently asked questions
- Why does base metal jewellery turn skin green?
- The discolouration comes from the metal reacting with your skin's oils and sweat. Copper is the most common culprit; it oxidises and the resulting compound transfers to the skin. The green mark is harmless and washes off, but it indicates the metal content.
- How can I tell if jewellery is base metal?
- Look for markings. Precious metal pieces carry hallmarks like 925 for sterling silver or 375 for 9ct gold. If there are no such marks, or markings like 'fashion metal' or no marking at all, the piece is likely base metal, possibly with a plating layer on top.
- Can base metal jewellery be plated to make it safer?
- A good quality plating layer does reduce direct skin contact with the base metal, but plating wears through over time, especially on rings and bracelets that take friction. Once the plating wears thin, the base metal is exposed again.
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