An alloy is a combination of two or more metals. Common alloys used in jewellery and giftware in the UK are:

Gold 9ct (37.5% gold with varying amounts of other metals such as silver depending on colour and other characteristics wanted) Gold 18ct (75% gold), 22ct (91.6% and very soft); Platinum (95% platinum); Silver Sterling (92.5% silver); and Pewter (92% tin with lead, antimony and a bit of silver or copper).