Gold Jewelry

Because of the softness of pure (24k) gold, it is usually alloyed with base metals for use in jewelry, altering its hardness and ductility, melting point, color and other properties.

Copper creates pink and rose tones in gold. White gold alloys can be made with palladium or nickel. Green gold alloys can be made with silver.

Pure gold is 24 carats. So, the higher the carat the purer the gold. In Europe 18 and 14 carat alloys are most commonly used in jewellery. Jewellery in many countries is stamped or hallmarked with its caratage.