Line up a bunch of jewelry from afar and the most basic distinction you can make is between silver and gold.

While deciding broadly between these two hues is mostly a matter of style and preference, choosing an exact type of metal jewelry is a bit more involved.

At first glance, it's hard for the untrained eye to tell the difference between white gold and sterling silver. They're both silver in color, but the two metals are quite different beyond their initial appearances. Here's what you need to know when you're on the hunt for silver-hued jewelry.