Metal Guide
Metal Guide
Gold Purity
There are various grades of gold purity, determined by the ratio of their alloy composition and rated by a karat system. Typical karat purities range from 10 karats to 24 karats (pure gold), with a wide variation of usage from country to country.
Below are some of the most common gold densities, along with the characteristics and pure gold content of each:
White Gold
Renowned for its gleaming luster and denseness, white gold is one of the most popular metal choices for jewellery. White gold gets it’s gleaming silver hue from the addition of alloy metals, including palladium, zinc, copper, tin, and manganese. The highest quality of white gold jewellery is generally 18 karats, consisting of a mixture of pure yellow gold and palladium.
Yellow Gold
Known as the most popular shade of precious metal, yellow gold is extremely popular, not only in fine jewellery but in the market today. A mixed array of copper alloys and silver creates its luxurious and warm hue. It gets its warm, lustrous hue from the silver and copper alloys with which it’s mixed. Within the yellow gold family, there can be a marked difference in shading based on the karat weight-for instance, an 18 karat yellow gold ring will be richer and more brilliant in colour than one measuring 10 karats.
Rose Gold
Often known as the most “romantic” metal, rose gold is an extremely popular metal choice for those looking for a feminine or luxurious touch. The combination of copper and silver creates its darker hue. By adding a larger portion of copper to the ring, the “rose” tones in the metal will become more apparent.
Platinum
Platinum is hypoallergenic and is four times more durable than gold. Its silvery-white surface is comparable to white gold, although it’s noticeably heavier.