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One common question we receive from our customers is, “what is the difference between 9ct, 14ct and 18ct gold?” when trying to decide which to use for their special design.
Gold and its purity is all classified by a specific carat system. Carat is the act of measuring pure gold in relation to all the other alloys in the gold jewellery. If the amount of gold is high it results in a higher purity or fineness level for that piece.
To make pure gold more suitable for jewellery usage like bracelets, wedding, and engagement rings, it must be combined with other metals such as copper and silver. This changes the hardness and durability of gold as well as the colour and the weight of the finished pieces of jewellery.
Gold is a very special metal; it is however very soft and not practical to use alone when creating jewellery pieces. Because of this fact, it is therefore alloyed to create durability. Adding alloys is what changes the hardness and purity levels of the gold as well as the weight and colour. The purest form of gold is 24ct gold but it is not ideal and not utilised often in jewellery making. 9ct, 14ct and 18ct however are commonly utilised when creating not only engagement and weddings rings but gold jewellery as a whole.
“Gold is a treasure, and he who possesses it does all he wishes to in this world and succeeds in helping souls into paradise”
Christopher Columbus
9ct gold (37.5%)
This is popular budget choice because it contains only 37.5% pure gold with the remaining 62.5% being other metals such as silver or copper. The popularity is not just because it contains the least amount of gold (resulting in a better price tag) but it is also one of the most durable and tougher options.
14ct gold (58.5%)
This is widely used in Europe and an acceptable compromise on cost and quality. It has 58.5% of gold which means it has a higher purity of gold resulting in a more vibrant and richer gold colour as opposed to 9ct gold. The 41.5% of the resulting metals used are zinc, copper and silver.
18ct gold (75% purity)
This is one of the purest and most expensive gold in jewellery. It is 75% pure gold with only 25% being other metals, specifically white metals to deliver a silver hue. Because this is one of the purest gold used in jewellery it is less likely to tarnish but less durable than the rest. One main reason why many don’t opt for this option is due to the fact that it can be easily damaged or scratched.
All genuine gold is hallmarked with a stamp appropriate to its carat.
THE GOLDEN COLOURS
When adding other alloys to the gold it provides a very broad colour palette. An easy way to think of the colours of gold is seeing it as the golds personality. The carat of the gold provides a simple structure and characteristic while the colour is seen as the style and decoration.
- Yellow gold
This colour is seen as the purest gold form used for jewellery pieces. The natural yellow tint of the gold when mixing with other alloys is what gives it a beautiful golden hue.
- White gold
This colour is made by mixing pure gold with either silver, nickel or palladium which is what gives it a slight white hue. Jewellery made with white gold needs to be electro-plated with rhodium to give it an even whiter and hard surface.
- Rose/Pink gold
This colour is achieved by mixing pure gold with more copper than silver alloys which is what gives it a warmer soft reddish glow. This colour will oxidise easily and is often harder to work with than yellow gold.
When choosing your carat and colour, whichever metal catching your eye, keep in mind that the jewellery pieces you choose is something you want to cherish for years to come. Choosing a metal based on what suits your skin colour the best is also a good tip to keep in mind when deciding which metal is best for you. These two factors will aid you in choosing the correct piece specifically for your needs.
Here at Moissanite By Design we customise any design of your choice. We work with all types of golds and gold colours and are here to help create pieces that echo your personality and style.
Make sure to Contact us to receive your quote and design your very own ring bling as well as following us on Instagram and Facebook for all the behind the scenes posts.
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Love, Moissanite By Design Team