The Modern Guide To Mixing Metals
Discover how to layer mixed-metal jewelry and combine yellow gold with sterling silver for a timeless, cohesive look.
July 20, 2026
From the very beginning, David Yurman has pushed boundaries through an artful interplay of precious metals and unconventional materials. By pairing sterling silver with gold in two-tone designs—and forever elevating its status in the world of fine jewelry—David Yurman’s pioneering designs have established mixed-metal jewelry as an enduring classic, highlighting the beauty of contrast.
What is Mixed-Metal Jewelry?
Mixed-metal jewelry can be a single piece of jewelry that combines two or more metals—such as gold, sterling silver, or rose gold—within one design. It can also describe the art of styling multiple pieces of jewelry in different metal tones to achieve a dimensional yet harmonious look. Simply put, mixed-metal jewelry combines two or more metal tones—such as gold and silver—in one piece or one look, offering two different ways to style and wear mixed metals for self-expression.
Can You Mix Gold and Silver Jewelry?
Yes, you can mix gold and sterling silver jewelry—whether it be an artfully curated bracelet stack in alternating tones or a stylish ring stack featuring single metal and two-tone rings. Modern jewelry styling is less about strict rules and more about creating an interesting, dynamic look that’s distinctly your own. Ultimately, the secret to mixing metals is creating a sense of balance to curate a cohesive look that feels intentional yet effortless.
Styling Tips For Mixing Metals
Begin With A Signature Piece
Start with an eye-catching, two-tone design as your focal point—the perfect unifying element to tie everything together. This could be a pavé diamond ring in sterling silver with 18K yellow gold or a bold chain bracelet in 18K rose gold and grey titanium. Once you’ve chosen your anchor piece, layer on complementary styles in alternating metals to create contrast and depth.
Balance Warm and Cool Tones
Mixing metals is all about creating balance between warm tones—yellow and rose gold—and cool tones like sterling silver, platinum, and white gold. One approach is to choose a dominant metal—particularly one that complements the undertones of your complexion—and incorporate a contrasting metal as an accent. Another option is to evenly distribute both tones throughout your jewelry, repeating each metal at least once to achieve a balanced, harmonious look.
Play With Proportion And Color
Mixing metals becomes even more playful—and visually interesting—when you combine pieces in varying sizes and colors. Consider pairing Classic Cable bracelets with vibrant gemstones and Micro Cable Flex® bracelets in refined proportions for a mixed-metal stack that’s rich in dimension and color.
Mix Shapes and Textures
A beautifully curated mixed-metal look relies on more than color coordination—diverse silhouettes and textures also play an important role in your stack. Combine delicate, sculptural, and geometric forms with braided, beaded, and pavé-set designs for a dynamic look.
How To Style Mixed-Metal Jewelry By Category
Mixed-Metal Bracelets
There are endless ways to mix metals when stacking and styling your bracelets. Pair cuffs, bangles, and chain bracelets in different metals to create a textural, dimensional look. Or, consider wearing a single, two-tone bracelet on each wrist—such as this DY Mercer® toggle chain bracelet on one and a classic Cable bracelet on the other.
Mixed-Metal Necklaces
When layering necklaces in mixed metals, the best way is to alternate metal tones across chains and pendants, varying each length to create space and depth. For the perfect trifecta, layer on a trio of DY Madison® chain necklaces—one two-tone version and two single-metal styles.
Mixed-Metal Rings
Style your mixed-metal ring stack around a signature, two-tone design—like a multi-row diamond ring that gives the illusion of a single stack—and then add stacking bands in varying widths and metal tones to bring it all together.
Mixed-Metal Earrings
Last but certainly not least, coordinate mixed-metal earrings with your necklaces, rings, and bracelets to create a balanced, intentional look. DY Madison® smooth hoop earrings in 18K gold or sterling silver—as seen on global brand ambassador Eiza González—are perfect pieces to echo a secondary metal elsewhere.
How To Make Mixed Metals Look Intentional
Here are a few pointers on how to create a masterful, mixed-metal look that feels elevated and deliberate:
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Use a two-toned design to bridge the overall look
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Repeat a motif, shape, or finish—like our signature X and buckle motifs
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Keep your outfit simple if you're going for a bold, maximalist jewelry look
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Balance metal tones across your look instead of clustering them in one area
Wearing Mixed Metals For Different Occasions
David Yurman’s mixed-metal jewelry for women and men is designed to be lived in—making it perfect for everyday wear and special occasions. Our signature two-tone designs can be effortlessly worn with many styles, including:
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A crisp white shirt and denim jeans
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A tailored suit
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Monochromatic layers in grey, beige, and black
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V-neck sweaters and cardigans in neutral tones like ivory and rich umber
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Black eveningwear, such as a classic décolleté dress or a formal suit
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Accessories with metal hardware, like handbags, belts, and watches
Building Your Mixed-Metal Jewelry Collection
Mixing metals is a styling practice that endures because of its versatility and visual appeal. At once classic and modern, mixed metals are always in style, offering a timeless sophistication that transcends seasonal trends. For women and men, mixed-metal jewelry offers endless opportunities to blend different jewelry styles and tones, offering a more playful—and personal—form of self-expression. It’s this creative process of experimentation and discovery that makes mixing metals a delightful and lasting tradition.
For tips on how to clean mixed-metal jewelry, read our ultimate guide to jewelry care.
Discover Women's Mixed-Metal Jewelry
Discover Men's Mixed-Metal Jewelry
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you Wear Gold and Silver Jewelry Together?
Yes, you can absolutely wear gold and silver jewelry together. Modern jewelry styling focuses less on rules and more on curating a stylish look that reflects your personal style.
What is The Rule for Mixing Metals?
There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to mixing metals. Styling mixed-metal jewelry is more about using repetition, balance, thoughtful placement, and varying silhouettes and textures to achieve a timeless, unified look.
Are Mixed-Metal Bracelets Easy to Style?
Yes, mixed-metal bracelets are incredibly easy to style. Use a two-tone design to bridge the overall look and stack cuffs, bangles, or chain bracelets in different metals to create a look that’s distinctly you.
Is Mixed-Metal Jewelry Good For Everyday Wear?
Mixed-metal jewelry is perfect for everyday wear and can be effortlessly worn with a range of outfits for different occasions.
