It is not uncommon to stop in front of the magnificent front of a jewelry store to take a look at it. And as for many people, the famous question: "What is the difference between each type of gold offered?" often comes up. Today, you will finally know the answer, and much more!
Where does the gold come from?
Before talking about its different colors in jewelry, it is important to remember the very origins of this precious metal. Because, incredible but true, gold is created from nuclear reactions within the stars, and has been falling on earth for billions of years thanks to comets and meteorites. With a yellow glow reminiscent of the sun and its malleability, gold was quickly used by ancient populations to make ornaments and coins. Today, it is estimated that 70% of its production is used in the jewelry industry. As you will have understood, the nobility of this metal is explained by its rarity, but also by its resistance to oxidation and corrosion.
A history of alloys and colors
As we have already pointed out, gold is a malleable metal when it is pure. This explains why it becomes necessary to mix it with other metals in the manufacture of jewelry, hence the term "alloys". It is therefore thanks to its different compositions that the colors of gold will start to vary. Thus, a yellow gold ring will be composed of 75% gold, 12.5% silver and 12.5% copper. As for pink gold, it contains 75% gold, 5% silver, and 20% copper. Then white gold, 75% gold, 15% silver and 10% copper. And this pretty white gold bracelet? Well, this eye-catching jewel is actually white gold to which a rhodium film has been added on the surface to whiten it or extra palladium in its composition, sometimes both.
Understanding the carats of jewelry
Now that you know more about colors and alloys, let's move on to carats. When you buy a ring, for example, the number of carats is an indication of the amount of gold in its composition. The measurement is based on 24 carats for pure gold. Thus, a jewel with 18 carats will be composed of 75% gold and a minimum of 25% alloys. The 14 carat gold at 58% gold, remains very solid and is often used for the manufacture of clasps of certain jewels. You will have understood it, it is absolutely necessary to inquire before thinking of making a good bargain at a low price. Its value and resistance over time depend on its carats and the quality of its alloy.
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