Gold Guide

Gold is the most traditional precious metal, known for its rich luster, ever increasing value and sheer magnificence. The most popular metal for jewelry, it does not tarnish, is durable and is mostly non-allergic.

Gold Karats

Karat is the standard scale for measuring the purity of gold. It is denoted with an abbreviation ‘K’, following the purity standard. Twenty-four karats is the purest; mixture of alloys reduces the purity but strengthens the metal. Popularly gold is available in 22K, 18K, 16K or 14K depending on alloy mixed.

The gold percentage can be derived using a simple formula divide the gold karats by 24 like 18/24 x100= 75%. Multiply the result with 100 for fineness. Like 18K gold has 750 fineness.

24K= 100% Gold
18k = 75% Gold + 25% Alloy
14K= 58.30% Gold+ 42.70% Alloy

*US standard is 18K to 14K.

Gold Alloys

We have heard stories of purity of gold, but actually it is not possible to use pure gold in jewelry. It is a very soft metal; therefore alloys are mixed in it for strength. Silver, copper, zinc, nickel etc are the common alloys used.

Twenty-four karat pure gold jewelry may have more value but is more prone to dents, scratches or de-shaping. Pure gold jewelry is not ideal for everyday wearing. Especially diamonds are always studded in 18K or less for a better sturdy grip.

Gold Colors

Gone are the grandma’s gold days! Gold has originated in a new avatar, in yellow, white, pink or rose, green colors. These are the result of the color of the alloys mixed to the gold. Like copper with gold gives it a rosy look used to derive the pink gold. White gold has nickel in it; it is generally rhodium plated, as the color is actually not white but whitish yellow. This plating is temporary but can be easily re-plated by a common jeweler. Rhodium plating is recommended for all hypo-allergic people.

Gold Care

• Do not use toothpastes to clean gold, the grains in it can spoil its patina.
• Just use a soft cloth or luke-warm water to clean your gold jewelry. Avoid detergents.
• Keep way from bleach, chemicals, perfumes, or oils.
• Always place your jewelry in its box to avoid scratching or any loss.