All About Gold
Dive into the world of gold, a precious metal loved for ages. This guide will teach you about gold’s history, its different types, and how it’s used in jewelry. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to know more about this shiny treasure.
Why Choose Gold?
Renowned for its gleaming luster and denseness, gold is known as the softest and most pliable natural metal. In its purest form, gold is bright yellow in color, but is often mixed with other metals, such as silver and copper, to form a more durable alloy that's more resistant to everyday wear and tear.
Additionally, these alloys help color gold and produce shades of white, yellow, and rose. At Brilliance, we specialize in high-quality 14 karat and 18 karat pieces, the standard for fine gold jewelry.
Gold Purity
There are various grades of gold purity, determined by the ratio of their alloy composition and rated by a karat system. Typical karat purities range from 10 karats to 24 karats (pure gold), with a wide variation of usage from country to country. In the United States, the most popular composition is 14 karat gold.
Colors of Gold
Due to its inherent softness and malleability, gold is rarely used alone when forging a jewelry piece. Instead, it's blended with other fine metals to lend more hardness and durability. When pure gold is combined with these other metals, it takes on a variety of rich shades that have become desirable in their own right.
Care & Maintenance
Gold maintenance is essential for preserving its shine and value. Clean gold items regularly using warm water mixed with mild dish soap, gently scrubbing with a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals like chlorine, as they can damage the metal. After cleaning, rinse well and dry with a lint-free cloth.
Store gold pieces separately in soft cloth pouches to prevent scratches. Regularly inspect jewelry for loose clasps or settings. It’s also advisable to keep gold away from extreme temperatures and to remove it during physical activities to avoid potential damage.
History of Gold
Discovered as early as 3,000 BC, gold has served as an ornamental and economic fixture for many centuries. A chemical element, it's a highly prized metal mined from rocks and sediment. From the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome through the Middle Ages and the modern period of the 1800s, gold has figured prominently in the history and culture of societies spanning the globe.
Create Your Ring
Design a unique, personalized engagement ring that reflects your style and fits your budget perfectly.
SHOP SETTINGS