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 Somerton, we specialize in high-quality 14 karat and 18 karat pieces, the standard for fine gold jewelry.
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 Somerton, we specialize in high-quality 14 karat and 18 karat pieces, the standard for fine gold jewelry.
Colors
Yellow
The most popular shade of the precious metal, gold is used to create a majority of the fine jewelry on the market today, especially yellow gold engagement rings and wedding bands. It gets its warm, lustrous hue from the silver and copper alloys with which it's mixed. Within the yellow gold family, there can be a marked difference in shading based on the karat weight. For instance, an 18 karat yellow gold ring will be richer and more brilliant in color than one measuring 10 karats.
|
White
Another popular choice for engagement and wedding rings, white gold gets its gleaming silver hue from the addition of alloy metals, including palladium, zinc, copper, tin, and manganese. The highest quality of white gold jewelry is generally 18 karats, consisting of a mixture of pure yellow gold and palladium. At Somerton, we coat each of our white gold pieces with a protective plating of Rhodium, a gleaming, near-white metal coating that's comparable in appearance to platinum. White gold can be re-dipped in Rhodium periodically to help maintain its original luster.
|
Rose
Often heralded as a romantic metal, rose gold gets its striking coloration from the addition of copper and silver. The larger the ratio of copper, the darker the rose coloration will be. Referred to as 'crown gold,' the most precious rose gold has a 22 karat weight. The more common 18 karat rose gold is comprised of 25% copper and 75% gold. At Somerton, we also specialize in 'Russian gold,' a form of Rose Gold with a high copper concentration that gives a rich red hue.
|
Gold Purity
24 Karat
In its purest form, the metal is comprised of 100% gold with virtually no alloy metals. Pure gold is extremely soft and pliable, which is why it's often mixed with other metals, such as copper and silver, to forge jewelry.
22 Karat
This level of gold is 91.7% pure which is still too soft to make jewelry and not as durable as 18K or 14K. Although not used often in America, this purity of gold is particularly popular in India, Pakistan, and other South Asian countries.
18 Karat
This alloy consists of 75% gold and 25% alloy metals. 18 karat gold has been found to be the perfect balance between gold purity and strength. Somerton offers a variety of exquisite 18 karat gold pieces and is our go-to purity when making fine jewelry.
14 Karat
14 karat gold is 58.3% pure gold; the remainder is comprised of alloy metals. Any gold purity less than 14 karat gold is not recommended for high quality jewelry.
10 Karat
This tier of the metal consists of 41.7% gold. This is the minimum purity that can still be considered gold in the United States and is not used for high quality jewelry.
In its purest form, the metal is comprised of 100% gold with virtually no alloy metals. Pure gold is extremely soft and pliable, which is why it's often mixed with other metals, such as copper and silver, to forge jewelry.
22 Karat
This level of gold is 91.7% pure which is still too soft to make jewelry and not as durable as 18K or 14K. Although not used often in America, this purity of gold is particularly popular in India, Pakistan, and other South Asian countries.
18 Karat
This alloy consists of 75% gold and 25% alloy metals. 18 karat gold has been found to be the perfect balance between gold purity and strength. Somerton offers a variety of exquisite 18 karat gold pieces and is our go-to purity when making fine jewelry.
14 Karat
14 karat gold is 58.3% pure gold; the remainder is comprised of alloy metals. Any gold purity less than 14 karat gold is not recommended for high quality jewelry.
10 Karat
This tier of the metal consists of 41.7% gold. This is the minimum purity that can still be considered gold in the United States and is not used for high quality jewelry.
Care
Although gold is resistant to corrosion, it may become dull or dirty with frequent wear. Periodic cleanings of your fine gold jewelry can help to restore its original luster and keep it looking its best. Below are some tips and techniques on safely maintaining your gold jewelry: For a cleaning solution, use a mix of mild non-abrasive detergent and warm water. Gently scrub the surface of the gold with a soft-bristled jewelry brush. Using a small brush will help to cleanse hard-to-reach areas, such as in between the prongs of a diamond ring setting or the clasp of a gold watch. Use a soft cloth to polish the jewelry piece. Be sure to wipe until the gold is completely dry. When not in use, store your gold jewelry safely to avoid contact with other pieces, which can cause scratching. Ideally, each gold piece should be kept in its own plastic zip-lock bag or soft cloth pouch to avoid tarnishing. At Somerton, we offer a finely crafted jewelry box to help preserve, protect, and organize your cherished valuables. Avoid contact with chlorine, bleach, harsh soaps, and lotions, as these can damage or compromise the surface of the gold. Every so often, it's a good idea to invest in a professional jewelry cleaning to ensure the beauty and longevity of your gold. At Somerton, we offer complimentary cleaning and polishing services for every fine jewelry product we sell. Contact us to learn more about how your favorite gold jewelry can look new again.