Whether you're drawn to the classic and elegant allure of yellow gold, appreciate the versatile and durable qualities of platinum, or fancy the unique and on-trend blush tone of rose gold, there are numerous options when it comes to selecting your metal type. Similar to choosing diamonds, personal preference plays a crucial role as the chosen metal type significantly influences the overall look and feel of the jewellery piece.
At Kashmiri Jewellery, we understand that an informed decision is often the best, which is why we've crafted a guide to assist you in your search.
Gold Guide
When considering the purchase of a gold jewellery piece, two crucial factors to keep in mind are the carat and the colour. Both elements significantly influence the appearance and overall quality of your precious piece, making it essential to be well-informed about these key aspects.
Carat, often abbreviated as kt or k, measures the proportion of pure gold mixed with another metal alloy. Higher gold purity results in increased value. For instance, 18kt gold jewellery will consistently have a higher value compared to a 14kt piece, irrespective of whether you choose yellow, rose, or white gold.
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold is a classic and traditional option for jewellery, particularly recommended for those looking for pieces suitable for daily wear. Opting for a lower carat is advised for everyday jewelry, as the lower gold purity enhances durability, making it a resilient choice.
The creation of yellow gold involves blending pure gold with alloy metals like zinc and copper. It's crucial to note that the gold's yellowness increases with higher carat values. While a rich yellow hue is desirable in high carat gold, it's essential to acknowledge that it will be softer and more susceptible to damage.
White Gold
White gold is an exceptionally elegant and contemporary choice, especially suitable for those who enjoy pairing it with silver jewellery, as the tones complement each other splendidly. Additionally, white gold serves as an excellent setting for coloured gemstones, thanks to its versatile and neutral metal tone.
The creation of white gold involves blending pure gold with a white metal, such as silver, magnesium, or palladium. Although available in various carats, 9kt is the most commonly used to ensure the creation of durable pieces suitable for everyday wear.
It's important to note that white gold, while not entirely white, exhibits an off-white or cream shade. To enhance its whiteness, it is often plated with rhodium. However, this plating may wear off over time, necessitating regular re-plating to maintain its pristine appearance.
Rose Gold
Rose gold, both fashionable and elegant, has a rich history in jewellery design since the 1920s. While it has been a part of the jewellery landscape for decades, its popularity has surged in recent times, possibly due to its stunning and surprisingly versatile blush hue.
The creation of rose gold involves mixing pure gold with a copper alloy, resulting in its signature blush tone. This unique material is not only aesthetically pleasing but also hardier, making it perfect for everyday wear. The hue of rose gold can vary depending on the carat, with higher carats yielding a pinker tone, while a greater amount of copper in the mix can result in a redder appearance. It's worth noting that individuals with copper allergies may be affected by rose gold, so those with sensitive skin may opt for a higher carat of gold for a safer choice.
Platinum
Platinum, known for its durability and versatility, is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a hard-wearing metal with stylish simplicity. This naturally white precious metal complements any type of gemstone, making it a popular option in jewellery design.
In its creation, platinum stands out from other metals as it doesn't require a large amount of additional substances. In most cases, platinum is available in an almost pure form, typically 95%. This near-pure composition contributes to platinum's resistance to scratching, ensuring it retains its brilliance and colour over time. Additionally, platinum's hypoallergenic properties make it an ideal choice for individuals with allergies or sensitive skin.
In Conclusion
When searching for an engagement ring, it's crucial to consider elements that hold significance for both you and your partner, along with your budget. If the prospect of rhodium plating every 6 to 12 months feels burdensome, you might want to steer clear of white gold. Similarly, if your partner has a hands-on occupation, such as nursing or teaching, opting for a more durable material, like platinum, may be a better choice.
Choosing an engagement ring is a special undertaking. With the right insights, you can navigate the process and discover the ideal ring for your partner.