Specialty metals

Niobium

Pure niobium or high-purity alloy

Natural silver-grey in pure form. Anodising produces vivid, stable colours (blue, gold, purple, green, pink) through thin-film light interference without dyes or coatings

Composition

Pure niobium; occasionally alloyed with zirconium for medical implants

Physical properties

Density 8.57 g/cm³ Weight per unit volume. Platinum is ~40% heavier than 18k gold at equal size
Melting range 2477 °C Working temperature for alloys. Pure metals have a sharp melting point
Vickers hardness 110 HV Higher HV = greater scratch resistance in service
Mohs hardness 6 Approximate equivalent for comparative reference
Tensile strength 275 MPa Resistance to breaking under tension, relevant for prongs and fine settings
Purity 99.90% Fine metal content by mass
Tarnish resistance Excellent Surface oxidation / sulphidation under typical wear conditions
Workability Good Ease of forming, soldering, and fabricating under standard jewellery workshop conditions
Hypoallergenic Hypoallergenic Likelihood of triggering skin reactions under normal wear

Common uses

Body piercing jewellery (high biocompatibility), hypoallergenic earring hooks and findings, anodised coloured jewellery, contemporary art jewellery, medical implant components

Hallmarking & identification

No precious metal hallmark. May be stamped Nb or Niobium. Considered one of the most biocompatible metals for body jewellery alongside titanium and implant-grade steel. Approved for initial piercings in many professional piercing standards.

Care & maintenance

Virtually maintenance-free. Clean with warm soapy water. Anodised colours are structural (thin-film interference) and do not chip or peel, but deep scratches may affect the visual effect. Cannot be re-anodised at home without specialist equipment.

Market & pricing

More expensive than titanium and stainless steel but significantly cheaper than precious metals. Niche availability through specialist jewellery suppliers and piercing suppliers.