Silver or Gold Jewellery - Which One Suits You Best?
Have you ever wondered 'How do I know if gold or silver best suit me'?
Choosing between silver and gold jewellery can feel like a lifelong debate - and honestly, there’s no wrong answer. Both metals bring out something different in everyone. The key is figuring out which one flatters your natural colouring and fits the vibe you feel most you in.
At Cove & Coast, we love both - cool, ocean-lit silver tones and the sun-kissed warmth of gold. But if you’ve ever wondered whether you’re more of a silver person or a gold person, here’s how to find out.
Start with skin undertones - not skin colour
So, how to know which metal suits you? Your skin’s undertone is what really determines which metal feels most harmonious on you. It’s not about whether you’re fair, tan or deep - it’s the subtle hue beneath your skin that makes all the difference.
- Cool undertones - hints of pink, rosy or bluish tones.
- Warm undertones - golden, peachy or slightly yellow tones.
- Neutral undertones - a mix of both, or hard to tell one way or the other.
Knowing where you sit on that spectrum helps you choose jewellery that enhances your colouring rather than competing with it.
The vein colour trick
Look at the veins on the inside of your wrist in natural daylight.
- If your veins look blue or purple, you most likely have cool undertones.
- If they appear green or olive, you’re leaning warm.
- If they’re somewhere between blue-green or hard to tell, you’re probably neutral.
It’s not a perfect science, but it’s a simple and surprisingly accurate place to start.
Jewellery in this collage feature (top to bottom): Stella Pendant Necklace, Ally Whale Studs, Tiny Treasures Coral Necklace, Kayla Lightning Bolt Studs & Ella Love Heart Necklace.
If your undertones are cool - silver is your best friend
Cool undertones tend to glow in silver jewellery. The crisp, luminous finish of silver complements pink or rosy hues in the skin and adds soft, natural contrast.
Some tell-tale signs you’re probably a silver person:
- You naturally gravitate toward cooler colours - whites, blues, greys, lilacs.
- You prefer soft, minimalist looks over warm or bold shades.
- When you wear silver, your skin tone looks even and calm rather than washed out.
Silver pieces work beautifully for a coastal, everyday aesthetic - versatile, light and easy to style with almost anything.
Jewellery in this collage feature (left to right): Stella Gold-Plated Pendant Necklace, Caroline Gold-Plated Chain, Gold-Plated Love Heart Necklace, a selection of gold-plated rings.
If your undertones are warm - gold brings out your glow
If your skin has a golden or peachy warmth, gold jewellery tends to make you look radiant - like you’ve just stepped into a sunset. The rich, buttery hue of gold complements warmth in the complexion and pairs perfectly with earthy tones.
Signs you’re a gold person:
- You look great in ivory, camel or rust tones.
- Gold-toned accessories instantly brighten your face.
- You love the look of glowing, beach-lit skin - and gold enhances that effortlessly.
Neutral undertones - lucky you!
If you couldn’t decide whether your veins were green or blue, chances are you’re neutral. That means you can wear both silver and gold beautifully.
- Use silver for fresh, clean daytime looks.
- Add gold when you want a little warmth or glow.
- Mix both for a relaxed, coastal feel - especially with layered chains or stacked rings.
Jewellery in this collage: Summer Butterfly Studs & Gold-Plated Love Necklace
Match your metal to your wardrobe
Beyond undertones, think about what you wear most often.
- Cool palettes like crisp white shirts, denim, charcoal and navy tend to pair naturally with silver.
- Warm palettes like beige, tan, cream and earthy greens blend beautifully with gold.
For a mixed wardrobe, keep a few of each so you can style by mood, not just colour theory.
Preference matters most
While undertones can guide you, the best jewellery is what makes you feel good. If you’ve always loved the look of gold on your skin even though you technically have cool undertones - go with it. Style is personal, and jewellery should feel like an extension of your personality.
When in doubt, mix and match
Mixing metals is absolutely allowed. Combining silver and gold adds depth and interest, especially in layered necklaces, stacked rings or a mix of hoops and studs. Choose one metal as a base and sprinkle in the other so it looks intentional and balanced.
Final thoughts
Whether you shine brightest in silver or glow in gold, the most important thing is that your jewellery feels like you. If you’re still unsure, try this: put on a silver necklace and a gold one, step outside in natural light, and see which makes your skin light up. Your reflection will tell you everything you need to know.
And if you truly can’t decide - embrace both. Life and style feel better with a little bit of both sun and sea.
FAQs
How to know if silver suits you
Silver tends to suit cooler undertones best. If your veins appear blue or purple and you usually reach for cooler tones like white, navy or grey, silver will likely flatter your skin. You’ll notice it gives your complexion a soft, balanced look rather than washing it out. Try wearing a simple silver necklace or ring in natural light – if it makes your skin appear calm and even, silver’s your match.
How to know if gold suits you
Gold tends to suit warmer undertones. If your veins look green or olive and you’re drawn to warm tones like beige, rust or cream, gold will naturally enhance your glow. It brings warmth to peachy or golden complexions and pairs beautifully with sun-kissed skin. Hold a gold piece near your face in daylight – if it adds radiance and brightness, gold’s your go-to.
Can my skin tone change which metal suits me over time?
Yes, it can. Sun exposure, tanning and even seasonal changes can slightly shift how your skin reflects colour. You might find that silver jewellery feels more flattering in winter when your skin is lighter, and gold jewellery glows better in summer with a bit of warmth. It’s completely normal to alternate metals depending on the season.
Does hair or eye colour influence whether gold or silver looks better?
It can. People with cool-toned hair like ash blonde, platinum or black, and lighter eyes often find silver enhances their features. Those with warmer tones in their hair — golden blonde, brunette or auburn — and darker or hazel eyes usually suit gold. But these are just general patterns; it’s all about what makes you feel confident and yourself.
What’s the best way to test which metal suits me before buying?
Try holding one silver and one gold piece against your face in natural daylight. Notice which one makes your skin look brighter and your eyes more defined. You can also take a few photos wearing both and compare — sometimes it’s easier to see the difference in pictures than in the mirror.
Can I match metals to different occasions or outfits?
Definitely. Silver tends to look sleek and minimal for everyday wear, while gold feels a little warmer and dressier for evenings or celebrations. Many people switch between the two depending on their outfit, neckline or even mood. Mixing both is also an easy way to create a relaxed, layered look.
Is there a difference in maintenance between silver and gold jewellery?
Yes. Silver naturally tarnishes over time but is easy to polish back to its original shine with a soft cloth. Gold-plated pieces won’t tarnish in the same way, but their plating can fade with frequent exposure to water, perfume or lotion. For both, store them somewhere dry, avoid wearing them in the shower or ocean, and give them a gentle clean to keep them looking new.
