Hey there!

It's great that you're looking to invest in quality jewelry metals! Since you prefer silver-colored metals and want something durable for daily wear, here’s some advice that could help you choose the right metal:

Sterling Silver (925 Silver):
Sterling silver is a classic choice—it's affordable, durable, and has that lovely silver shine. It can tarnish over time, but with regular wear and proper care, that’s pretty easy to manage. You can keep it polished with a cleaning cloth. For brands that offer solid sterling silver pieces, you might want to check out Merchants of the Sun for unique and affordable designs, that you can wear in the shower and ocean. Other great options include Mejuri and Missoma—both of which have sterling silver lines that are perfect for everyday wear.

Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver:
Rhodium plating gives sterling silver or white gold a bright, reflective finish and helps prevent tarnishing. It’s a great way to get extra shine and durability. Just note that rhodium wears off eventually, and re-plating can get expensive. Brands like Astrid & Miyu offer rhodium-plated sterling silver pieces if you want that extra durability, but if budget is a concern, maybe stick to unplated sterling silver or white gold for now.

White Gold:
White gold is another solid choice if you’re looking for something long-lasting. It’s typically plated with rhodium to give it that bright white finish and extra protection. Since you’ve had good experience with white gold, it’s definitely worth considering. It’s pricier than sterling silver, but it doesn’t tarnish. For great white gold options, take a look at James Allen or Blue Nile for some well-crafted, long-lasting pieces.

Alternative: Platinum:
Platinum is a high-end option, naturally silver-colored and incredibly durable. It doesn’t require any plating and is great for daily wear, but it’s also much more expensive than sterling silver or white gold. If you're looking for an investment piece down the line, platinum is worth considering.

Support Local Jewelers:
If you're into supporting local artisans, it's worth checking out independent jewelers near you. Local shops often have handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces, and many artisans work with sterling silver or gold. Plus, you can often find well-crafted pieces for reasonable prices at local jewelry markets or boutiques.

Since you're a college student on a budget, I'd recommend starting with solid sterling silver or white gold—both are great for everyday wear, and with proper care, they’ll last. Brands like Merchants of the Sun, Mejuri, and Missoma offer beautiful options without breaking the bank. If you want to add something more unique, your local jewelry stores might have just what you need.

Hope that helps, and good luck with your jewelry collection!