Copper Wire Alternatives

Gold Wires

• A gold wire is made from gold and therefore expensive. The price depends on the cost of gold at the time, but it will be much higher than copper, at least two to three times as much per foot, if not more. There are advantages to gold wire however. The wiring is considered to be a better conductor of electricity and electrical signals. Many components for high definition televisions use gold in their wiring heads and connectors for this reason.

Brass Wire

• Brass wire is another kind of metal wire. This type of wire is used in arts and crafts mainly and for gardening projects. Electrical wiring may also make use of brass as a material. Many connector heads are plated in brass because it is more durable than copper and it produces a shiny surface.

Silver Wire

• Another alternative is silver wire. Like gold wire, it is durable and expensive. Prices will fluctuate on silver and therefore affect the price of this type of wire. Typically, it changes in conjunction with the gold prices. Silver wire is also used in crafts and jewelry. As an alternative to copper, it is brighter in shine and luster. Silver can be strung into electrical wiring, however it is not as common as brass or copper in this case.