Gold's purity is measured in karats. The term
"karat" harks back to the ancient bazaars where "carob" beans were
used to weig
h precious metals. 24
karat is pure gold, but its purity means it is more expensive and
less durable than gold that is alloyed with other metals. Different
alloys are used in jewelry for greater strength, durability and
color range.
The karatage of the jewelry will tell you what
percentage of gold it contains: 24 karat is 100 percent, 18 karat is
75 percent, and 14 karat is 58 percent gold. When comparing gold
jewelry, the higher the number of karats, the greater the value.
Color
Gold in its pure
form (24k) is too soft to withstand abrasions caused from extensive daily
wear, so it is alloyed with other metals to give it strength. This
strength makes gold an excellent choice for a ring setting. Common gold
alloys are silver, copper, nickel, and zinc.
Gold color is determined by the percentage
of alloys that are included in the metal. When gold is alloyed with
silver, copper, and zinc, the shade of color will vary. When gold is
alloyed with nickel, copper, and zinc, it becomes white gold. Yellow gold
and white gold have very similar strength and malleability. White gold
looks very similar to platinum, but the two have very different properties
and prices.
Purity
The purity of gold is measured in karats, which are
expressed in 24ths. Thus, 24-karat gold is pure while 12-karat gold is 50
percent gold and 50 percent alloy.
Price
Gold pricing is
based on a number of factors, including karatage, gram weight,
design and craftsmanship. The karatage and gram weight tell you how
much gold is in a piece, but don't rely on these alone to determine
price. Remember, a price based solely on gram weight does not
reflect the work that has gone into the piece.
Other
important factors to consider are the jewelry's construction and
design. The techniques of construction can make a piece more durable
and flexible for added comfort. A well-made piece in a classic
design will give you years of wear and enjoyment and, if cared for
properly, will last a lifetime. Unique design, intricate details,
gemstones or a special clasp may add to the price.
Care
Keep your gold jewelry away from
harsh chemicals such as chlorine and cleaning fluids. This will reduce
daily abrasions and prolong gold's luster.
To clean gold jewelry, use a
solution of warm water and detergent-free soap and wash gold gently with a
soft-bristled brush (a dull tooth brush works well).
Store gold pieces separately in
soft cloth bags or original boxes to protect them from the exposure to
harsh daily elements.
Consider 18k gold for jewelry and ring
settings because it is rich in color and durable. White gold is also an
affordable substitute for platinum.
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