Colours – Base metals
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold comes in several variations, each defined by the specific alloy metals mixed with pure gold to achieve desired qualities like durability, colour intensity, and malleability. 18K yellow gold, with 75% pure gold, offers a balance between durability and colour, making it ideal for fine jewellery.
14K yellow gold, with 58.33% pure gold, is more affordable and stronger, but with a slightly lighter yellow tone. 9K yellow gold, the least pure with 37.5% gold content, is the hardest and most affordable option but has a more subdued colour. The exact shade of yellow can also vary depending on the proportion of copper, silver, and other metals added, giving each type a unique warm or pale tone.
Rose gold
Rose gold is a warm, pink-hued metal alloy made by combining gold with copper and a touch of silver. The copper content gives it a distinctive reddish tint, creating a romantic and elegant appearance that has grown in popularity in jewellery and fashion. Its soft, rosy glow makes it a versatile choice, blending classic luxury with modern appeal.
White Gold
White gold is an alloy primarily composed of yellow gold mixed with white metals such as palladium, silver, or nickel, giving it a silvery appearance. It is often coated with rhodium, a precious metal, to enhance its shine and durability. White gold combines the beauty of gold with the sleek, modern look of silver or platinum, making it a popular choice for fine jewellery.
Platinum
Platinum - is an originally white metal, it will not lose its brightness over time, so doesn't require any plating. Containing 95 % pure platinum, and only 5 % other elements, it is more costly than 18ct gold. Platinum is highly valued in jewellery making due to its rarity, durability, and natural white sheen, which resists tarnishing. It is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, platinum's dense, heavy nature allows for intricate designs and secure setting of gemstones, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewellery.
Silver
Silver is one of the most popular metals in jewellery making due to its affordability, versatility, and attractive appearance. Its bright, shiny finish and ability to be easily shaped make it ideal for a wide range of styles, from simple everyday pieces to intricate, detailed designs. Sterling silver, which consists of 92.5% pure silver alloyed with other metals like copper for strength, is especially favoured for its durability and quality. While more affordable than gold or platinum, silver still maintains a timeless appeal, making it a popular choice for both fashion jewellery and high-quality artisanal creations.
Plated metals
The main difference between gold and gold-plated Jewellery lies in the amount and type of gold used. Gold Jewellery is made entirely of gold, typically alloyed with other metals to increase strength and durability. It can come in various carats, with 24-carat being pure gold and lower carats indicating a higher proportion of alloy metals. Gold-plated Jewellery, on the other hand, consists of a base metal (like silver, copper, or brass) coated with a thin layer of gold through an electroplating process. This layer is usually very thin, meaning the piece is not solid gold and may wear off over time.
Similarly, silver Jewellery is made from sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver mixed with other metals, usually copper, to enhance its strength and durability. Silver-plated Jewellery is made from a base metal, such as brass or copper, that has a thin layer of silver electroplated onto it. The silver plating can also wear off over time, revealing the base metal beneath. In both cases—gold and silver—the plated pieces are less expensive than solid gold or silver Jewellery but may not have the same longevity or value.
Cuts
Colours and types