GOLD WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Doug Mitchell Diamond Doug is Owner/Artist at UniQ Jewelry Gallery. More info: uniqjewelry.com.
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old has been used since ancient times. Because of the malleability and durability of gold, it is a perfect suitor for jewelry-making; when pure gold is exposed to air, it cannot be oxidized. However, the jewelry we love and wear isn’t usually made of 100% pure gold. The other metals used to create our favorite hues and tones are what make our most sacred pieces vulnerable to oxidation and tarnishing while also increasing the strength and durability for long-lasting wear.
When shopping for jewelry, there are some standard terms we know and love. For example, when you hear the word “gold,” you know that piece is going to be rich in value. But when a jeweler starts talking about different karats and even platings, how do you know which one is right for you?
We’ve got the inside scoop, and we’re here to have you feeling like an insider in no time!
PURITY: STAMPING AND KARATS Pure gold is found within the earth. While not usually found in large quantities, it is often mined, panned, and sifted from soils. Pure gold has impeccable malleability, making jewelry made from pure gold a poor candidate for longevity. Pure gold is not strong enough to hold the intended shape and will not prevent the gemstones from falling out.
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Most gold used for jewelry is actually a gold alloy with other metals added to strengthen the metal or change the color. Metals used to increase the strength are copper, silver, zinc, and nickel. The percentile of metal added will determine the karat of gold.
There are different markings on jewelry to indicate the purity of the metal used. There are also different markings depending on where
the jewelry was created. There are two main markings you will find: US and European. US KARAT MARKING
EUROPEAN MARKING
PURITY/ % OF GOLD
24K 18K 14K 10K
1000 750 585 416
100% 75% 58.35% 41.6%
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