Whether you’re buying gold jewelry for the first time or adding to your beautiful collection, our complete guide will guide you in the right direction.
From selecting the perfect karat to understanding different gold types, let us help you make the best choice for your budget and lifestyle so you can shop for gold jewelry that combines timeless beauty with everlasting value.
Table of Contents
What Are The Different Types Of Gold?
Although there are many types of gold, each with a different purity, color, and composition, there are three main types of gold that are used to make jewelry
- The most classic choice and what most people think of when they imagine pure gold is yellow gold. Known for its warm, traditional hue, yellow gold comes in a variety of karats, customarily 24k (pure), 22k, or 18k.
- White gold offers an elegant and modern look with a silvery appearance, which is produced by mixing pure gold with white metals such as silver, nickel, palladium and often rhodium-plated for extra shine.
- Rose gold has a unique pinkish hue which is created by mixing gold with copper. This gives it a romantic and contemporary appeal. 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.
Tips For Buying Gold Jewelry
- Color: The color of gold can vastly differ in piece. As gold jewelry comes in various colors, such as yellow, white, rose, and green, it is important to select the one that both complements your personal style and budget.
- Check for Hallmarks: Hallmarking refers to the engravings on a piece of jewelry, this verifies its authenticity and gold content.
- Ethical Sourcing: Ensure that the gold you are buying is ethically sourced and meets industry standards. At James Allen, we uphold the highest ethical standards by partnering with suppliers who share our values and responsibly source our gold. As a signatory of Earthworks’ No Dirty Gold Golden Rules, we ensure our gold meets strict human rights, social, and environmental standards through careful supplier assessment and continuous improvement.
- Know Your Karat: It’s important to understand the karat rating to measure the purity of the gold. Higher karat gold, like 18K or 22K, has more gold content, while lower karats are more durable and typically preferred for everyday wear.
- Weight and Craftsmanship: The weight of a gold jewelry piece plays an essential role in its price and durability. Heavier pieces are generally more valuable and less prone to damage. However, make sure you don’t overlook the craftsmanship, intricately designed gold pieces may come with a higher price tag because of their craftsmanship, but that’s what makes your jewelry truly special and worth every cent.
Pick The Right Gold For Your Skin Tone
While the best color gold is the one you love best, there are a few things to consider when it comes to your skin tone. For instance, some metals can clash or complement more than others. As you will be wearing your gold jewelry directly against your skin, it is ideal to select the metal that compliments your complexion.
Related Post: How To Choose The Right Jewelry For Your Skin Tone
If your skin has warm, golden undertones, yellow gold will complement your complexion beautifully, while rose gold is a stunning close second.
If you’re fortunate enough to have an olive skin tone, a perfect blend of warm and cool undertones, you can rock any gold or metal color—you’re guaranteed to shine in them all!
If your skin has pink tones with cool, bluish undertones, white metals like white gold or platinum will be the most flattering for you.
Know The Difference Between Plated & Pure Gold Jewelry
When buying gold jewelry, there is quite a lot of information to take in, it is important to know exactly what you are buying. While gold jewelry comes in several forms, plated gold, gold-fill or solid gold. Knowing the difference between these can affect your final choice, in terms of quality, durability, and value. Here’s what you need.
Plated Gold
Gold-plated jewelry involves a process called electroplating, where a thin layer of gold is applied over a base metal to achieve that polished finish. This popular technique, often paired with options like rhodium plating, is widely used in the jewelry world for its blend of beauty and affordability.
However, it’s important to note that gold-plated jewelry typically has minimal resale value, as the gold layer is too thin to be worth reclaiming. The durability and quality of these pieces can also vary depending on the thickness of the gold layer, so it’s worth considering if you’re looking for something long-lasting.
Pure Gold
Pure gold, also known as 24k gold, is the highest quality of gold available, consisting of 99.9% pure gold with no other metals mixed in. Its rich, deep yellow hue is both luminous and vibrant, making it a true symbol of luxury. When it comes to other gold options, 18k gold is 75% pure, 14k is 58.3% pure, and 10k is 41.7% pure.
As the karat number decreases, more non-gold metals like copper, nickel, and silver are added to create an alloy. Each metal used in the alloy brings unique characteristics in terms of color, weight, and durability. These non-gold metals are generally harder, lighter, and less expensive than gold.
However, pure gold jewelry does come with a few drawbacks. As pure gold is so soft, experts occasionally do not recommend pure gold for everyday wear. This is because It’s easily bent, scratched, and reshaped. Pure gold also has a distinct heavy feel, which might be uncomfortable for regular wear or for people with active lifestyles.
Understanding Carat vs Karat
While both carat and karat are used in jewelry, they refer to different aspects. Carat measures the weight, or size, of your natural or lab grown diamond, while karat indicates the purity of gold—the higher the number, the purer the gold. For example, 18K gold is purer than 14K. Since 24K gold is the purest form, anything less than 24K is considered an alloy, meaning it’s a mixture of various metals.
So, a gold piece of diamond jewelry will have both karat and carat measurements.
It’s important to check the karat of the gold before purchasing. Regardless of the piece’s age, the listing should clearly state the gold content and fineness. Transparency is key to finding your perfect piece.
Price And Purity Considerations
Understanding the purity of the gold jewelry you’re buying is crucial. This ensures you know its true value and that you’re paying a fair price. At James Allen, we provide clear details on gold purity to guarantee that your jewelry is authentic and meets all industry standards.
However, if you still have doubts, you can simply check the purity of the gold jewelry you’re buying yourself. All you need to do is look for the markings on your piece. Different countries have different markings on their gold jewelry. If you’re not sure of what they mean, you can take it to a jeweler or an expert and they will tell you the purity of your gold jewelry item in an instant.
Find A Reputable Jeweler
When purchasing gold jewelry, trust is everything. Ensure you’re buying from a reputable jeweler with a commitment to quality and honesty. It’s recommended to look for a jeweler who offers detailed information on gold purity, craftsmanship, and ethical sourcing, so you can shop with confidence. A reputable jeweler will also provide certifications and guarantees, giving you peace of mind that your gold jewelry is genuine.
Buying Gold Jewelry In-Store
When it comes to purchasing gold jewelry, for some people there’s something special about shopping in-store. Experiencing the weight, color, and craftsmanship of each piece first hand allows you to truly appreciate the quality and detail. In-person shopping also offers the opportunity to consult with knowledgeable experts who can guide you through your options, ensuring you find the perfect piece that matches your style and preferences.
Buying Gold Jewelry Online
Purchasing gold jewelry online offers convenience and a world of choices right at your fingertips. For instance, at JamesAllen.com, we provide detailed images, 360-degree HD views, and comprehensive descriptions that allow you to explore a wide range of styles and designs from the comfort of your home.
You can also compare prices, read customer reviews, and take advantage of exclusive offers to ensure you get the best value. Plus, with flexible payment options and hassle-free returns, buying gold jewelry online at James Allen is a stress-free, enjoyable experience that makes finding your perfect piece easier than you think.
FAQs
How can you tell if gold jewelry is good quality?
To ensure gold jewelry is of good quality, check the karat rating for purity and look for hallmarks that verify its authenticity. Reputable jewelers should provide clear details on gold purity and authenticity, ensuring their pieces meet high craftsmanship and ethical standards.
Is buying gold jewelry a good investment?
Buying gold jewelry is considered to be a good investment both financially and personally. Valued for its natural worth and stability, gold combines timeless style and practicality with the potential for long-term value.
Can you wear 24k gold jewelry every day?
Yes, of course, you can! However, it’s important to note that due to its purity and softness, it is more susceptible to scratches and dents. So, to keep your 24k gold jewelry looking its best, make sure it is protected from harsh chemicals and cleaned regularly with a soft cloth.
Which is better, 18k gold or 22k gold?
The choice between 18k and 22k gold is completely yours, this will depend on your personal preferences and needs. While 22k gold is purer and has a richer, deeper color, making it a perfect choice for those who value purity and a classic look, it is softer and more prone to scratching.
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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.