As a jeweller, I have the privilege of working with the precious, lustrous, and timeless metal that is gold. Gold jewellery has held immense value and admiration for centuries, continuing to captivate people of all ages and cultures. From delicate chains to ornate earrings, the versatility of gold offers endless possibilities in design.
Here are five common questions I receive about gold jewellery!
1. What carat gold is the best?
Carat (ct) is the term used to specify gold purity with 24ct indicating pure gold. When it comes to choosing which gold to use for your jewellery, there is not really a "best" option. The choice is determined by your budget, design, and personal preferences. Higher carats indicate more value, but for everyday wear, 9ct to 18ct are recommended. 22ct and 24ct are too soft for everyday use due to their purity.
2. What is white gold?
White gold is made by mixing alloys with pure yellow gold, and because of this it is not a true white colour. 9ct (carat) white gold has a hallmark of 375 meaning it is 37.5% pure gold with the rest being alloys and 18ct white gold has a hallmark of 750 meaning it has 75% pure gold with the rest being alloys.
Although 18ct white gold is more expensive than 9ct, it's also more yellow. To get a pure white colour, white gold rings are usually rhodium plated during the final stage of production.
3. What is Rhodium Plating?
Rhodium is part of the platinum metal family, so it is a bright white colour. Rhodium plating is a type of electroplating where a thin layer of rhodium metal is deposited onto the surface of a piece of jewellery, giving a bright white finish and enhancing the appearance and durability of the piece.
Over time this plating does wear off. I normally recommend having jewellery cleaned and checked once a year, at this point I would replate any white gold.
4. White gold vs Platinum (covid price hikes!)
In recent years (since covid 2020), the price of white gold has skyrocketed due to several factors, including the rising cost of the raw materials used in the alloy.
In the past white gold was a less expensive way to get a white metal ring in comparison to Platinum but while white gold prices went through the roof, Platinum prices remained steady and as such, platinum is now often a more cost-effective choice for customers wanting a white “metal” ring. The price normally works out less than 18ct white gold, and as platinum is a pure white natural metal it doesn't require the upkeep that white gold does.
5. What can I do with my old gold?
Have it made into something new! At Tayha Designs, customers have the option of providing their old pieces of jewellery and having them handcrafted it into something completely new! We can remodel - for example an engagement ring you may want to update, or a family heirloom redesigned to suit your style. Old jewellery pieces are broken down by remelting the gold and extracting the stones ready to be made into a new piece (or pieces!)
There’s plenty of options! After your initial enquiry, we will work together on your custom design, check if any new gold needs to be added or extra stones sourced and then Tayha Designs will create a beautiful new piece of jewellery for you.
Gold remains an extraordinary metal that continues to enchant and inspire. Its versatility allows for endless creativity in jewellery design, from everyday wear to exquisite statement pieces.
Whether you're considering carat options, exploring white gold and rhodium plating, or seeking ways to repurpose your old gold jewellery, there are choices to suit your preferences and budget.
Embrace the beauty of gold and let us create a jewellery piece that will be treasured for generations to come.
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