If you’re in the market for fine jewelry, gold is a favored option. Beyond its stunning appearance, gold is a durable metal that has the potential to be passed down from generation to generation if it’s properly cared for. If you’ve never purchased a piece of gold jewelry before, you may have some questions before making a purchase. Diamond experts share tips for buying the perfect engagement ring by addressing common questions that consumers may have.
One of the first questions that may come to mind is what different colors gold jewelry comes in. Gold jewelry primarily comes in three colors: yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. While gold starts off as yellow, it is often combined with other metals to create different colors like white and rose gold, as well as add durability. Amanda Gizzi, director of public relations and events at Jewelers of America in New York City, mentioned in an interview with Fox News Digital that there are a variety of different alloys that can be added to gold to create different hues. The primary colors that people see in jewelry stores are yellow, white, and rose gold, with yellow gold currently being the trending color for engagement rings.
Next, consumers may wonder what exactly karats are. Karats are the unit of measurement used to determine the purity of gold alloys. The higher the karat, the more pure gold there is in that piece. The percentage of pure gold in various gold alloys, provided by the Jewelers Association of America, are as follows: 10K – 41.7%, 14K – 58.3%, 18K – 75.0%, and 24K – 99.99%. While pure gold (24K) is not typically used for jewelry due to its softness, combining gold with other metals adds strength. When shopping for gold jewelry, the karatage of the piece should be clearly marked to indicate its purity.
Consumers may also be curious about which karat gold is best for everyday use. According to Gizzi, 14K gold is best for everyday wear due to its durability and strength. On the other hand, 18K gold is typically reserved for more special occasions and less worn pieces, as it is softer and less durable. The main differences between different karat levels are the color, strength, and durability of the jewelry.
Lastly, consumers may ask about the best ways to care for gold jewelry. Before purchasing gold jewelry, it is essential to buy from a reputable jeweler to ensure authenticity and proper guidance on care. Gizzi recommends having your jewelry looked at and cleaned by a jeweler once a year. In addition to professional care, you can also maintain your gold jewelry at home by using a simple solution of warm water with dish detergent like Dawn. Soak the jewelry for a few minutes, then gently brush away any debris with a soft toothbrush. Rinse the jewelry with water, pat it dry with a lint-free towel, and be sure to close the drain to prevent any accidents.
In conclusion, purchasing gold jewelry can be a significant investment, so it’s essential to be informed before making a purchase. By understanding the different colors of gold, what karats indicate, the best karat for everyday wear, and how to care for gold jewelry, consumers can make informed decisions when choosing the perfect piece for themselves or a loved one. Remember to shop at reputable jewelers, have your jewelry checked and cleaned regularly, and follow proper care instructions to ensure your gold jewelry retains its beauty and value for years to come.
