Gold Jewelry Buying Guide

The foundation of every piece of jewelry is its material, and gold takes center stage. We've prepared a concise guide on the basic concepts of gold to help you make an informed decision.

1. Gold Colors

Gold is available in three popular colors in the jewelry market:

  • Yellow Gold
  • White Gold
  • Rose Gold (also referred to as “Red Gold”)

Pure gold has a natural yellow hue, but its color can be altered by mixing it with other metals during the casting process. This mixture is called an alloy.

  • Yellow Gold: Created by mixing pure gold with brass, copper, or zinc for a rich golden tone.
  • White Gold: Achieved by blending pure gold with platinum, nickel, or silver for a cooler, silvery finish.
  • Rose Gold: Made by mixing pure gold with red copper, resulting in a warm, pinkish hue.

2. What Is 14K or 18K Gold?

The term karat (K) refers to the purity of gold, not its weight (gold weight is measured in grams).

Gold jewelry is typically made in the following purities:

  • 24K Gold: 100% pure gold. Rarely used in jewelry due to its softness.
  • 18K Gold: 75% pure gold + 25% other metals. Offers a richer color and higher value.
  • 14K Gold: 58% pure gold + 42% other metals. Most common in fine jewelry due to its durability and affordability.

The higher the karat, the more pure gold is in the piece—and the higher its cost. Prices are calculated by gold content (in grams) after the alloy is created.

In Conclusion

When purchasing gold jewelry, consider two key factors:

  1. Color: Yellow, white, or rose—choose based on your personal style.
  2. Karat: 14K for strength and everyday wear, 18K for richness and luxury.

Choose wisely to match your style, preference, and budget!