What everyone wants to know
Gold jewelry has and will continue to be a staple to any jewelry collection. If you are like most people, you love the look, but when it comes to making a purchase or even selling an item, you have a lot of questions! It’s hard to know where to begin or even what questions to ask, so we pulled together a few FAQ’s about gold jewelry to help!
What do different karats mean?
What do the numbers 10k, 12k, 14k, 18k, and 24k mean to you? Probably not much until you realize what these numbers represent. The term karat, represented by the letter “K” refers to the purity measurement. There are 24 units in every gold alloy, meaning 24K is the purest form of gold. So the higher the number, the more genuine it is.
But why is this important? This matters because the Karat also determines the durability. While 24K gold is the most expensive, it is also going to be softer and more malleable, making it less durable.
Is my jewelry real?
There is nothing worse than buying a beautiful ring or necklace, only to later discover it isn’t real and now your skin has turned green. Never fear, though, there are a few simple ways to determine for yourself whether or not your gold pieces are real.
1. Check for a stamp. Most jewelry designers will include a stamp of the karat measurement on an item. The stamp can typically be found on the clasp of a necklace or the inner band of a ring.
2. Test your jewelry by looking for a black streak on ceramic. If your gold is real, when you run it across unmarked ceramic, it will leave a gold mark. If it is fake, it will leave a black streak.
3. Take your item to a professional, like us. A skilled jewelry appraiser will have the proper tools to tell you whether your jewelry is genuine or not, and will be able to give you the most accurate answer. We can do this quickly and efficiently in our store!
What is rose gold?
Rose gold has become one of the latest engagement ring sensations! This type gets its name from its pinkish hue. To achieve this color, copper is added to the gold, making it a more affordable, durable, and aesthetic option than gold made with other metals. A triple threat, some might say.
What is white gold?
White gold jewelry tends to look like a brighter version of silver. Like rose gold, this form of gold is also mixed with other metals, but typically white metals such as nickel. Check out our post where we also discuss the best ways to care for these different golds. https://isbelljewelers.com/caring-for-your-gold-jewelry/
We’re always here for you and all your jewelry questions!