Gold

Gold is a precious metal known for its warm glow and high resistance to corrosion and oxidation, so it retains its beautiful appearance over time. In jewelry, gold is typically used in 14 or 18 karat, where karat indicates how much of it is pure gold. Mixing gold with other metals makes the jewelry more robust for everyday use.

Gold - what it is and why it's a popular choice

Gold has been used for jewelry for centuries and is still one of the most sought-after materials today. This is mainly because gold has a natural shine, an exclusive look and a high resistance to corrosion. Gold is also a material that can last for many years when used and maintained correctly, making it an obvious choice for everything from rings and earrings to bracelets and necklaces.

When talking about gold jewelry, karat is one of the most important terms. Carat indicates how much of the metal is pure gold. Pure gold is 24 karat, but in jewelry it is rarely used in its pure form as it is very soft. Instead, gold is alloyed with other metals to make it more durable and better suited for everyday use. The most common grades in jewelry are 14 karat and 18 karat. 14 karat contains 58.5% gold and is widely used because it often offers a strong balance between durability and price. 18 karat contains 75% gold and is often associated with a more exclusive choice due to its higher gold content and deeper, warmer gold color.

Gold also comes in several hues, with yellow being the most classic. The color is affected by which metals the gold is mixed with in the alloy, so gold can vary slightly in tone from brand to brand and carat to carat. Because gold can be alloyed, it can be used in a wide range of designs - from minimalist and timeless jewelry to more decorative styles with stones and details. Gold is also popular because it highlights both diamonds and colored stones beautifully and can add warmth and elegance to a jewelry style.

When choosing gold jewelry, it can be beneficial to keep an eye out for hallmarks and material descriptions. For example, hallmarks can indicate carat and thus gold content, making it easier to compare quality and value. Whether you choose 14 or 18 karat, gold is a material that fits well into most jewelry wardrobes because it is easy to combine with other jewelry and works for many occasions. With the right care, gold jewelry can retain its look for a long time and remain an integral part of your style year after year.

FAQ: Gold

What is gold in jewelry?
Gold in jewelry is typically an alloy where pure gold is mixed with other metals to make the jewelry more durable. Pure gold (24 karat) is soft, which is why it is rarely used on its own in jewelry that needs to withstand daily use.

What does carat (kt) mean on gold jewelry?
Carat indicates how much pure gold the jewelry contains. 24 karat is pure gold, while 14 karat and 18 karat are the most common in jewelry. 14 karat equals 58.5% gold and 18 karat equals 75% gold.

What is the difference between 14 karat and 18 karat gold?
18 karat has a higher gold content and often a deeper, warmer gold color. 14 karat is widely used for everyday jewelry because it often offers a good balance between durability, price and practicality.

Can gold lose color or become ugly over time?
Gold does not typically change in the same way as silver, for example, but the surface can get small scratches and lose some of its shine with use. This can usually be solved with polishing or professional cleaning. In the case of gold-plated jewelry, the coating can wear off over time, but it is a different type of product than solid gold.

Is gold hypoallergenic?
It depends on the alloy. Gold is mixed with other metals and some may be more sensitive to certain metals than others. If you have sensitive skin, it is advantageous to choose jewelry with clear material information and focus on compliance with current EU requirements.

Can you shower, work out or sleep with gold jewelry?
Gold can withstand general use, but jewelry is generally best removed after bathing, exercising and cleaning. Soap, chlorine, chemicals and friction can affect the surface and can be especially hard on jewelry with stones or fine details.

How do you clean gold jewelry?
Lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth or soft brush are often enough for general cleaning. Avoid abrasive products and harsh chemicals. If needed, a professional cleaning or polishing can give your jewelry a more refreshed look.

How can you tell if gold is real?
Real gold jewelry often has a stamp indicating carat or fineness and may be accompanied by material descriptions from the manufacturer. If in doubt, a jeweler can typically help assess the jewelry.

Is gold a good investment?
Gold generally has a high value and is a sought-after material, but whether a piece of jewelry is an investment depends on factors such as gold content, design, condition and brand. For most people, the choice of gold is first and foremost about quality, durability and appearance.

Is gold good for wedding rings and engagement rings?
Yes, gold is a classic choice for wedding and engagement rings because it is timeless, durable and can be maintained over time. The choice between 14 and 18 carat often depends on the desired look, budget and how much the ring is used on a daily basis.