Precious Gold

Why is gold such a highly valued, precious metal?

For around five and a half thousand years, gold has been the most highly prized precious metal. In ancient times it was one of the few known metals that didn't tarnish, rust or corrode. It is also the most malleable and soft of metals, even though it has great strength.

Purity of Gold

24 karat gold that is one hundred per cent pure is extremely soft, and not practicable for everyday wear. So, it is alloyed with other metals to strengthen it and enable it to be made into jewellery. These alloy metals vary, but tend to include nickel, zinc, copper, silver or platinum. The most common gold alloys used in the creation of jewellery are measured by caratage, in 24ths. As 24 carat gold is 100% pure, 14 carat is 59% gold, 18 carat is 75% gold, 10 carat is 42% gold and so on.

Gold Colour

The colour of the gold varies according to the type of metal alloys used in the piece, and the percentage used of each alloy.

Yellow Gold: The higher the percentage of gold in the alloy, the richer the yellow colour. In 18ct gold, the gold percentage is 75%, so it has a very rich yellow colour, but where strength is required, as in earrings or bracelet clasps, 14ct gold tends to be used and the colour is not as rich.

White Gold: To produce white gold, the gold is alloyed with either silver or platinum. This produces a slight yellow colour, so the finished jewellery is plated with Rhodium, a white, shiny metal, to finish the piece.

The Price Of Gold

The purity of the gold used in the piece, or the carat weight, determines the price, along with the design and construction of the jewellery.

Gold Care

Do not use harsh chemicals such as chlorine or cleaning fluids near your gold jewellery, as this will produce abrasions and dull the lustre of the gold. Clean your jewellery in a mixture of warm water and soap that is detergent free. Wash it gently with a soft bristled brush, and store it separately in the original box or soft cloth bags to reduce the daily exposure to the elements.