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Gold, rolled gold, gold plate, silver plate have been used extensively in jewelery. Some pieces, such as chains, bracelets and rings are made exclusively from these precious metals. In other items such as brooches and earrings, they
provide settings for precious or semi-precious stones. Platinum and non-precious metals such as copper, brass and bronze have also been used. Settings crafted from these metals are used to anchor stones and other decorative materials. Various styles of settings exist, but the two most common types of setting are "open" and "closed." In an open setting, the metal behind the stone is cut away so that light can shine through it. In a closed setting, the stone is backed by solid metal. When a translucent or transparent stone is placed metallic foil is often placed behind it. The foil reflects light back through the jewel, enhancing is colour and brilliance.
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