Gold is the most popular of all the precious metals. It popularity in jewelry making is down to its malleability when carving and making designs. Pure gold is too soft to be used in jewelry making as so it is usually mixed with other metals such as silver, zinc, copper and nickel to make it more durable and strong. A piece of gold id measured in karats and the purest form of gold is 24k making this 100% gold but it usually comes in 18k and 9k when buying jewelry the purer the gold the softer it will be and vice versa. The karat also effects the color of the gold 24k gold is very rich in color and looks like a very deep yellow and the lighter the gold the more it is mixed with other alloys.


Lighter color gold’s or white gold’s are usually rhodium plated to give it its light color and this actually wears with time having to be re-dipped by a jeweler to keep its color. Rose gold is mixed with copper to give it that beautiful pink hue and the lightest white gold that doesn’t need to be re-platted is known as x1 gold. Due to their fragility different types of gold should be maintained and stored separately.


Each jewelry piece should be stored in their own soft material bag usually velvet and stored in a jewelry box away from the fading effects of light. Rings of different gold’s should not be worn on the same fingers together as the stronger metal
will wear away at the weaker one causing discoloration and scratching. The best and safest way to maintain jewelry is to wash it in warm soapy water and leave to soak for 30 minutes then dry with a soft towel do this once a month for best results this will keep your jewelry looking shiny and new. Do not use any harsh chemical cleaners on your gold as it will wear down eh metal over time especially white gold plated jewelry as this is easily eroded.


Platinum jewelry is the most expensive of all the precious metals due to its light color and durability. Platinum is the strongest of all the precious metals it will not wear down over time or splinter and will always keep its shape this is why it is very popular in ring making. Most engagement rings or rings that are holding expensive gems will be made from platinum as the casing for the gem will be more secure and less likely for eh diamond or ruby to all out. Its beautiful pale color also creates a beautiful setting for fine jewels as it creates a plain background so the gem can shine and enhance its color.


Platinum does have a tendency to loose its luster and shine over time so it is important to maintain its state by caring for it correctly. This is done in much the same way as gold by soaking in warm soapy water and shining it with a soft cloth. It will need to be restored every few years and this can be done in any reputable jewelers with a simple buffing process. Platinum is usually 95% pure and 5% of on other alloy