Since 2006, as a leading e-commerce jewelry and loose diamond retailer, we’ve had the privilege of helping numerous customers deepen their understanding of gold jewelry.

From Karat to Carat, and the measurement of the purity of gold, it’s totally understandable they can all be confusing. Ready to learn more about high karat gold? Let’s dive right in!

What is a Karat?

Karat is outlined as a measurement of the purity of gold. In the world of fine jewelry, understanding gold’s purity is essential. 

Think of 24 karat (24K) gold as nature’s gold, untouched and pure with no other metals. While 18 karat (18K) gold is 75% of that pristine gold, blended with 25% of other fine metals. There’s also 14 karat (14K) gold, which contains 58.3% gold and 41.7% other alloys. Lastly, 10 karat (10K) gold, is often considered to be the least pure gold on the market for ‘gold jewelry’. Gold accounts for 41.7% of its composition, while other metals make up 58.3%.

At JamesAllen.com, we believe in precision and authenticity. While these percentages do vary slightly, it’s important to remember that this may be the case as jewelers perfect their craft finding the perfectly toned metal that works best for them. However, any gold jewelry labeled with a specific karat will closely align with the standards set by the millesimal fineness chart.

What’s the Difference Between Karat and Carat?

“Karat” and “Carat” are two terms that are often confused with one another. For a better understanding, keep scrolling.

Gold Terms to Know

Karat (K): A unit of measurement used to express the purity of gold in an alloy. Pure gold is 24 karats, while alloys are represented as fractions of 24.

Alloy: A mixture of two or more metals, often used in combination with gold to enhance its properties like strength and color.

Hallmark: A stamped mark on gold items that indicates their purity and authenticity, usually accompanied by the karatage (e.g., “18K”).

Assay: The process of analyzing the composition of a metal to determine its purity.

Fining: A process used to remove impurities from gold by melting it with substances like borax or saltpeter.

Malleability: The property of gold that allows it to be hammered, rolled, or shaped without breaking.

Gold Plating: The process of depositing a thin layer of gold onto the surface of another metal through electroplating.

Refining: The process of purifying raw gold through various chemical and physical processes to remove impurities.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of High Karat Gold?

The allure of high karat gold is undeniable, but how does it fare in practical terms? Let’s unravel some of the advantages and disadvantages. 

How to Choose the Best Karat for You

When choosing your gold jewelry karat, it’s important to think about your style and the item’s function. For pieces such as engagement or wedding rings, you’ll want 18K gold at the very least due to the balance between its purity and durability. Since we use our hands on a daily basis, it’s easy for rings to be scuffed on a daily basis. 

In contrast, when it comes to jewelry items that are less susceptible to damage, such as earrings or pendants, it’s entirely reasonable to indulge in 24K designs. These pieces usually rest gently on the body, minimizing the risks of scratches or dents.

Related blog post: 14K Gold vs. 18K Gold: What’s The Difference And Which “K”  Is Right For You?

What Is Gold Purity?

Gold purity refers to the proportion of actual gold content within a given item or alloy. It is an important metric in the jewelry industry that helps to indicate the quality and value of a gold piece. 

This purity is commonly measured in two main ways: first through the karat system, which scales from 1 to 24 (with 24 karats indicating pure gold), and the millesimal fineness, which is measured in parts per thousand. For instance, in the karat system, 18K gold signifies that the alloy is made up of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals. 

Understanding gold purity helps consumers gauge the authenticity, value, and quality of their gold possessions.

What Is the Difference Between Pure and High Karat Gold?

Each piece of jewelry is characterized by its karat or the amount of pure gold used. Pure or 24-karat gold is 100% pure gold. And, high karat gold refers to any piece with more than ten karats of pure gold. Generally, high-end jewelry is made with at least 10K gold.

What Is the Highest Karat of Gold?

The highest karat of gold is 24K gold. 24-karat gold is 100% pure and does not contain any other metals. This makes it the purest gold available, meaning, it has zero impurities and is usually softer than lower karats such as 10K and 14K.

As we mentioned previously, gold comes in various karat levels, indicating its purity. The higher the karat, the less the metal is mixed with other metals during refinement. While 24K gold has the highest purity, its ability to bend restricts its use in jewelry pieces like wedding bands, especially when detailed designs or subtle curves are desired. On the other hand, 10K gold, comprising of 41.7% pure gold, is celebrated for its durability and is frequently chosen for crafting jewelry.

Does a Higher Karat Mean Higher Quality Gold?

You may have heard that 24K gold is the “highest” karat gold. But high karat doesn’t directly translate to higher quality. But let’s break it all down for you. It does mean that 24K gold has more actual gold in it compared to, say, 14K or 10K. That makes it more valuable, sure, but not always “better” for every purpose. 

Here’s why: 24K gold is super soft. Imagine trying to make a sculpture with soft clay versus firm clay. The softer it is, the trickier it gets. That’s why you don’t see a lot of jewelry made from 24K gold. On the flip side, 18K gold hits that sweet spot. It’s both gorgeous to look at and strong enough for pieces like rings, earrings, and bracelets. Think of it as the MVP in the gold world – bringing both beauty and strength to the table.

How Can You Tell if Gold Is Real?

• The best way is to take your gold jewelry to a reputable jeweler who can test it
• Check to see if it has been stamped (real gold should be stamped somewhere with its karat measurement (usually 10K, 14K, or 18K).  
• Alternatively, fill a bowl or glass with water, and drop the gold into it. If it floats, it’s not real gold. It’s likely genuine if it sinks since real gold is quite heavy.

FAQs

Can I wear high-karat gold jewelry every day?

Yes, of course, you can wear high-karat gold jewelry every day! However, it’s important to note that due to its purity and softness, it is more susceptible to scratches and dents. Such jewelry should be handled with caution during activities that could damage it.

How do I determine the authenticity of karat gold jewelry?

To determine the authenticity of karat gold jewelry, firstly, you check for a hallmark or stamp indicating the gold’s purity, e.g., “14k” or “18k”. You can also make sure to buy from reputable sources or brands to ensure quality and authenticity. Otherwise, consider having your gold jewelry tested by a professional jeweler.

Does a Higher Karat Mean Higher Quality Gold?

Yes. In general, a higher karat indicates a greater percentage of gold in the alloy and, therefore, a higher degree of purity. For instance, 24-karat gold is considered pure gold, while 18-karat gold contains 75% gold. Quality is subjective; even though higher-karat gold is purer, it may be less durable in certain jewelry applications due to its softer nature.

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Tarryn Snoyman

An experienced content writer with four years' experience, Tarryn enjoys educating and guiding jewelry shoppers, providing them with valuable insights and best practices for making informed purchases.

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Gold will forever be a timeless favorite for jewelry wearers. However, although gold is often mistaken for only being yellow, its beautiful and diverse shades and hues can sometimes be overwhelming.

Keep reading to find out all there is to know about the different colors of gold. Plus, we’ll assist you in finding out which color of gold color for your next piece of jewelry.

What Is Gold?

Gold is a valuable element steeped in a rich history of wealth and affluence. It is a dense precious metal labeled Au on the periodic table of elements. In its purest state, it gleams with a radiant yellow color and is highly durable and malleable. Gold is often naturally found in a pure form. 

Embedded within the Earth’s crust, this precious metal is widespread within various igneous rock formations, although in relatively low concentrations.

What Is Colored Gold?

Since pure gold is highly malleable, it cannot be used for jewelry production by itself. To make practical jewelry that can withstand everyday wear, gold must be combined with other metals called alloys. Silver, copper, and palladium are the most common alloys used to solidify gold. When blended with varying proportions of gold, these alloys produce various shades and radiant hues.

Aside from its resilience, gold has many other valuable features. Here are just a few reasons why gold is the most popular choice for jewelry around the world:

• It doesn’t tarnish
• It’s durable enough to last a lifetime 
• Beautifully crafted
• It has traditionally been associated with societal status and a symbol of wealth

Most people believe gold is only available in three colors – yellow, white, and rose. Although those are the most popular, did you know gold comes in many other hues, such as black, purple, and green?

What Are Karats Of Gold?

Karats, abbreviated as ‘k,’ is a measurement unit that marks gold’s purity (content) when alloyed with other metals. When gold is at its purest, it is labeled 24k. However, you’ll unlikely see this on jewelry as it’s too soft for practical use.

Knowing what each karat type means and how it affects the price tag is so important when purchasing gold jewelry. In different parts of the world, minimum karat requirements for gold-labeled jewelry vary, although there are no maximum karat requirements. For instance, in the United States, gold jewelry must be at least 10k, whereas, in the UK and France, the minimum is 9k.

Let’s take a closer look at the standard Karat measurements.

The Origin of Gold

Colored gold dates back centuries, including early references to rose gold being used as far back as the first millennium. As the 19th century progressed, Carl Faberge, jewelry to the czars, popularized rose gold with his decorated Faberge eggs. Then during the early 1900s, rose gold was widely used by women of high social status for fine jewelry and engagement rings.

What Are The Different Shades of Gold?

Did you know that gold comes in various rainbow shades? While some gold colors are purer than others, the rare shades are available for your favorite jewelry pieces. Let’s take a look:

Common Gold Shades

Although each shade of gold varies in color subtly, eight main types of gold are used to make jewelry. Here is a closer look at each one.

• Yellow gold is what most people think of when they imagine pure gold. Yellow gold comes in a variety of karats and price points. However, because pure gold is too soft to be used on its own, silver and copper are added in varying ratios to produce the yellow color seen primarily in jewelry. 
• White gold is actually a broad term that contains many colors of gold. White gold is produced by mixing pure gold with white metals such as silver, nickel, and palladium. White gold comes in a wide range of karats and, therefore, a variety of prices due to its diverse nature.
• Rose gold is a gold-copper alloy closely related to red and pink gold. Differences are based on the ratio of gold to copper and whether or not silver is added. Since rose gold contains copper, it is not hypo-allergenic, so be sure you or the recipient will be comfortable wearing it.

Rare Shades Of Gold

• Purple gold is a variation that results from mixing gold and aluminum. But it is less commonly used in jewelry due to brittleness.
• Green gold is one of the most common gold shades, containing pure gold, copper, silver, and zinc. There are different shades of green gold varying from soft to deep green. This depends on the alloy used. Historically, green gold has had some incredible uses. 
• Blue gold is one of the less common gold shades that combines gold and indium, gallium, or iron.
• Grey gold is a type of white gold created by combining pure gold with copper, manganese, silver, or iron.
• Black gold is a shade created through various methods. For example, cobalt oxide involves mixing pure gold with cobalt and heating it at a specific temperature. Another way to make black gold is by electroplating, where gold jewelry is plated with a black finish – usually rhodium or ruthenium.

What’s The Best Shade of Gold?

The best shade of gold is completely subjective and depends on personal preference, which can be based on individual style and fashion sense. While some may prefer a rich hue, others lean towards a pale tone. 

While white gold engagement rings have been very popular for many years, yellow gold engagement rings will always remain a classic and timeless choice. In addition, the romantic and modern charm of rose gold ring styles is a gorgeous yet unique choice too, especially when paired with beautiful gemstones.

Ultimately, the best shade of gold is the one that complements the wearer’s skin tone, and aesthetic preferences, creating a stylish and treasured jewelry piece. 

Related blog post: How To Pick The Right Engagement Ring For Your Skin Tone

Buying Gold from A Trusted Retailer

While there are established guidelines regulating minimum gold standards that gold dealers are expected to follow, some may choose to overlook these standards and offer substandard products instead.

This is one of the many reasons why dealing with reputable dealers is so important. Buying gold from a trusted retailer has the following advantages:

Quality Gold Jewelry

Reputable retailers will always assure you of quality. For example, if a piece of jewelry is labeled 14k, it is safe to assume the gold content has not been manipulated and is worth its true value.

Ethical Practices For Buying Gold

Buying gold from a trustworthy retailer ensures the product is ethically sourced. In other words, they have taken the appropriate steps following the necessary regulations.

Trained Experts

A high-quality retailer will likely have trained staff, further adding to their credibility and your confidence in their products. This ensures that the staff understands the products and processes involved so that you can trust their expertise. 

Good Customer Service

lastly, dealing with a reputable retailer means you can trust and depend on them to be responsive during the selection, buying, and after-purchase. Having the confidence that they will promptly address your concerns and questions eases the stress of the process.

FAQs

Are there different colors of gold?

The majority of people think gold is only available in three colors – yellow, white, and rose. While those are the most popular hues, gold also comes in many more shades, such as, purple, blue, green, gray, and black. 

What gold is best in color?

It’s important to remember that all types of gold are high-quality metals for your jewelry. However, the decision boils down to individual preferences and intended use. Consider the following when trying to reach your choice. Does it complement your existing jewelry collection? Is it within your budget? Can it withstand frequent use?

What color gold is most valuable?

The most valuable color of gold is typically yellow, which is considered pure and classic in appearance. Other shades, such as white or rose gold, may be preferred for fashion or personal taste, but they are usually mixed with other metals, reducing the purity and thus the value.

Is gold hypoallergenic? 

Generally, gold is considered hypoallergenic as it really causes allergic reactions to the skin. However, in some cases, gold jewelry may contain other metals or alloys, such as nickel or copper, which can trigger allergies in certain individuals.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it. We hope we have enlightened you about all the different colors of gold. And now you can find the perfect pieces (or pieces) for your jewelry collection. If you need any assistance, our JamesAllen.com experts are always available to offer their professional opinion. Contact us here! 

And, don’t forget that if you’re looking for a gold engagement, wedding ring, or a fine jewelry gift for someone special, you can always count on us for high-quality and affordable pieces.

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Tarryn Snoyman

An experienced content writer with four years' experience, Tarryn enjoys educating and guiding jewelry shoppers, providing them with valuable insights and best practices for making informed purchases.

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In the world of precious metals, white gold and silver are two of the most popular choices. For people who love the look of pure silver or white gold, both these metals add a certain zest to many types of jewelry. Something that is very different from other metal hues such as rose or yellow gold.

While both white gold and silver are beautiful and versatile metals, they do have some advantages and drawbacks that are worth considering before deciding on your next piece of fine jewelry. We have put together a detailed comparison of silver and white gold to help you decide which metal is best for you. Here is everything you need to know.

What is White Gold?

White gold is a type of gold that is mixed with other metals, such as nickel, palladium, or silver, to create a white-colored alloy. As a final step, rhodium is plated over the resulting metal to enhance its luster and durability. The purity of white gold is measured in karats, with 14K and 18K being the most common options for jewelry. A classic, timeless look makes white gold a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry pieces.

Pros and Cons Of White Gold

There is no universal rule that white gold is better than silver or vice versa. Depending on your needs, each metal has its advantages. While some people prefer white gold for certain pieces, others may opt for silver. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of white gold.

What is Silver?

Silver is a naturally occurring precious metal that has been used in jewelry for centuries. It has a soft, lustrous appearance and is loved for its affordability. While silver is beautiful on its own, it is often alloyed with other metals, such as copper, nickel or zinc, to increase its durability and strength The most common type of silver used in jewelry is sterling silver, which has a purity of 92.5%, with 7.5% made up of other metals.

Pros and Cons Of Silver

Just like with white gold, silver has both advantages and disadvantages. So what are they? Let’s find out.

How To Tell The Difference Between Silver And White Gold

Because of their similar appearances, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish white gold from silver. However, there are a few key differences that can help you tell them apart.  While at first glance silver and white gold may appear to have a similar hue, silver has a grayish-white hue, whereas white gold has a distinctly white shade.

Color:

Remember that the composition of white gold includes yellow gold and an alloy metal like nickel that gives gold its white hue. It is then plated with rhodium, which provides it with an elegant, mirrored finish.

On the contrary, silver carries a grayish-white hue with a brighter, more reflective color than white gold. Even though the difference may be subtle, it is often noticeable when the two metals are compared side by side.

Markings:

Both silver and white gold are typically stamped with tiny markings that indicate their purity, but it’s important to know that the markings will be different on each metal. Silver is usually stamped with a hallmark that indicates its percentage of purity (e.g. “925” for sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver), whereas white gold is usually stamped with its karat (e.g. “14K” for 14 karat white gold, which is 58.5% gold).

Tarnish:

Silver tarnishes over time, developing a dark patina. However, it can be polished off with a silver polish or a home remedy that will quickly restore your jewelry. White gold, on the other hand, does not tarnish, but it can become dull over time and may need to be polished by a trusted jeweler to restore its shine.

Price:

White gold is usually more expensive than silver because it contains gold and has a higher density. On the other hand, silver is among the most affordable types of metal for fine jewelry, especially for earrings and bracelets. But it’s important to note that the extra durability of white gold does increase the price tag of the metal.

FAQs

Is white gold or silver better for engagement rings?

Both white gold and silver can make beautiful engagement rings, but white gold is generally considered to be a more durable option. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, silver can be a great choice.

Which metal is more expensive, white gold or silver?

White gold is typically more expensive than silver because of its composition. Pure gold is a precious metal and is more expensive than silver, and the additional metals mixed with the gold in white gold also contribute to its higher cost.

Are you able to distinguish white gold from silver just by looking at them?

White gold and silver can look similar at first glance, but there are some differences that can help you distinguish between them. White gold has a brighter, shinier appearance than silver, which has a softer, more matte finish. Additionally, white gold may have a slightly yellowish or grayish tint due to the gold content, while silver is pure white.

Can I wear white gold and silver jewelry together?

Yes, of course! You can mix and match white gold and silver jewelry to create a unique, layered look. However, it’s important to be aware that sterling silver and white gold don’t necessarily look exactly the same, so you can’t always style to match perfectly. But combining the metals creates a beautiful and harmonious mix of modern jewelry styles

Final Thoughts

Picking out a metal is a very important element in any jewelry purchase. With so many different types of metals it can be challenging to find the perfect metal type for your next piece of gorgeous jewelry. Ultimately, choosing between silver and white gold comes down to a few factors: preference, budget, and of course the jewelry type you want to wear. Both metals are beautiful and popular choices, but which one is right for you? 

At JamesAllen.com, there are many beautiful options that fit any budget and personal preference to create your perfect look!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Tarryn Snoyman

An experienced content writer with four years' experience, Tarryn enjoys educating and guiding jewelry shoppers, providing them with valuable insights and best practices for making informed purchases.

More Posts

Is it time to start ring shopping? Congratulations! Buying an engagement ring and gearing up for the proposal is truly an exciting time. Don’t know where to start? Scroll down for expert advice!

We sat down with Sarah, one of James Allen’s senior customer service reps, to talk about some common questions she encounters on a daily basis from customers. Whether it’s about buying an engagement ring or making proposal plans, read on for her top engagement ring tips and more!

1. Shape Your Thoughts

When you’re just getting started, we recommend thinking about shape preference. ‘A round center stone is never going to go out of style, and it is by far the most popular shape,’ explains Sarah. If you don’t know where to begin, play it safe and go for a round center stone. Oval cut and pear-shaped diamonds are a great choice if you prefer something a bit more trendy.

2. Timing Is Everything

When you’re thinking about the proposal, consider timelines and how long it takes to make your ring. ‘I always remind our customers to allow themselves enough time because all our rings are made to order,’ adds Sarah. So, remember, whatever you choose, give yourself a few weeks before getting your hands on these gorgeous pieces.

3. Let’s Talk Budget

You may have heard about the ‘three-month salary rule’, but we believe you should determine how much you can comfortably spend overall. There are no set rules when it comes to how much money you should spend on an engagement ring. Keep in mind that the price tags of an engagement ring can vary significantly, so it’s important to choose one that fits your budget.

‘Once we know what style the customer wants, the best-sellers are a good reference,’ adds Sarah. We have a wide selection of stunning options for every kind of budget and won’t break the bank.

Looking to sparkle and save? We teamed up with proposal expert Stacy Stahl to cover all your ring budget questions, including:

1. How much should you spend on a ring?  
2. Does bigger mean better? 
3. How can you save money? 
4. What’s the average amount spent?

Listen to her tips in the video below to find the best bling for your buck:

4. A Two-Way Street

Engagement ring shopping is usually a two-way street. ‘You should always keep your partner in the loop and follow their lead’ advises Sarah. Your partner is going to be wearing the ring every day, so make sure they love it! If your significant other hints at something other than a classic solitaire, try something different like these vintage-inspired engagement rings.

FAQs

What is most important when picking an engagement ring?

The most important characteristics you should pay attention to when buying an engagement ring are the diamond’s cut, color, weight, and clarity. A diamond’s price and appearance depend on these characteristics.

How can I make my engagement ring special?

There are many different and beautiful ways to make an engagement ring special. At JamesAllen.com we offer you the opportunity to design your dream ring using our Ring Studio.  And for an extra personal touch, you can also engrave a meaningful message (for free) on the inside of your engagement ring. 

How do you properly wear an engagement ring?

Despite there being no right or wrong way to wear an engagement ring, engagement rings are usually worn on the left ring finger. This is the most common choice, and in many western cultures, the wedding ring finger is traditionally said to be the fourth finger on the left hand. However, the “ring finger” is not the same in all cultures and countries. 

What should you not do when buying an engagement ring?

When it comes to engagement ring shopping, many people often make the same mistakes. To make sure both the engagement ring and the proposal moment are close to being perfect, it’s so important to keep these in mind:

• Set a budget 
• Do your homework and get all the information you can 
• Check your partner’s ring size partner
• Consider your partner’s personal style. 
• Plan the proposal  

Looking for real-life proposal inspiration? Take a look at our customers’ engagement moments from all over the world.

You can also contact us if you need help finding your dream engagement ring. Our diamond and jewelry experts at JamesAllen.com are always available to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to assisting you!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Tarryn Snoyman

An experienced content writer with four years' experience, Tarryn enjoys educating and guiding jewelry shoppers, providing them with valuable insights and best practices for making informed purchases.

More Posts