FAQs About Gold!

Q ~ What is 14K Gold?

A ~ Gold does not always occur naturally as "pure". Trace metals and other impurities must be refined out and the result is 24K gold or 999.99 fine gold. Asian and Middle East sources market 22k to 24k yellow gold jewelry since nearly pure gold is easy to work with simple methods handed down for centuries. Long term durability is limited and shows wear and abuse readily because the gold is very soft. Most countries use alloys of copper, silver, zinc and nickel to harden the pure gold so it will last a lifetime of use and enjoyment. 14k gold has been alloyed with silver and copper at a rate of 58% pure gold and 42% alloy metals, creating the fine 14k yellow gold that we see in limitless designs today!


Q ~ What gives gold "colors"?

A ~ The alloys that produce different colors of gold are very subtle and best seen in side by side comparison. For example to produce "rose" gold, a blending of yellow gold and copper produces a pink to reddish color in the finished piece. Rose gold was very popular in the 1930's and has come back to life in recent years and is dazzling when set with Rubies and diamonds! Mixing silver, yellow gold and copper will produce a green hue and white gold is alloyed with nickel, zinc, copper and sometimes palladium and usually washed with a rhodium solution, a rare platinum metal that adds brilliance to white gold and soft sheen to the eye.

Q ~ How much gold is in my gold?

A ~ 24k = Pure Gold @ 999.%
18k = 75% Pure Gold and 25% Alloy
14k = 58% Pure Gold and 42% Alloy
10k = 42% Pure Gold and 58% Alloy
All gold marketed in the United States should carry the stamp of its karatage somewhere on the item that you are purchasing, ask to see this whenever you purchase fine gold jewelry!

Submitted by Diana Root - Sales/Ft Myers