GOLD

GOLD

What is Karat

Karat is an indicator of gold purity. Pure gold is 24 karat. 18 karat is 18/24 or 75% pure gold. Sometimes 18 karat can be marked “750.” 14 karat is 14/24 or 58.3% pure gold and can be marked as “585.”

As one of the most precious metals, platinum alloys are 90%-95% pure. Some argue platinum to be the ideal choice for diamond settings due to its white color, strength and durability. Creating jewelry in platinum usually takes longer than in gold. Due to its purity, density, and longer fabrication time, platinum can be considerably more expensive than white gold.

White gold is a mixture of pure 24k gold with whitening metals such as nickel or palladium, as well as other strengthening metals. As the natural state of gold is yellow, white gold may appear slightly yellow.

 

What is the difference between a carat and a karat?

What the difference between 18 karat and 14 karat gold?

There is more pure gold in 18k than 14k, as well as it has a richer yellow color and is heavier in weight. 18k gold is available in yellow, white and pink. On occasion, 18k is used for setting delicate gemstones for its more malleable properties.

 

Is chlorine harmful for gold jewelry?

Chlorine is a highly corrosive chemical and will attack gold alloys, which can lead to cracking. Chlorine is a chemical typically found in bleach, household cleaners, swimming pools and hot tubs. For best results from your jewelry, try to avoid exposing your pieces to this chemical.