Yellow Gold Engagement Rings: The Classic Metal Choice

Yellow Gold Engagement Rings: The Classic Metal Choice

yellow gold engagement rings

The Beauty of Yellow Gold Engagement Rings

Gold, one of the most popular metals for jewelry and without doubt the most popular choice of metal used in engagement and wedding rings and bands. Gold is incredibly durable, tarnish resistant, adaptable and considered precious.

Gold used in jewelry is usually mixed with other metals such as zinc, silver, nickel and copper in order to strengthen the extremely soft metal. In turn, gold is measured in karats such as 24 karat (the purest form), 18 karat, 14 karat and 12 karat. In the U.S. karat is the measurement of gold purity where carat measures precious gems such as diamonds. Internationally, carat is the term used for both metals and gems.

The level of alloys used in gold also dictates the value of the gold product, dictates the color and its hardness. Gold pieces are stamped with the karat level such as 14K and 18K.

14K Yellow Gold Engagement Rings

14 karat gold is 58% gold and by standards relatively stronger than some other levels such as 18K. 14 karat gold has a higher potential for tarnishing and has a higher level for potential allergies due to the other metals alloyed with the gold. In the United States, 14k is the highest level used in engagement rings, necklaces and other jewelry pieces.

18K Yellow Gold Engagement Rings

18 karat gold is 75% gold, is more valuable and is deeper in color. 18 karat gold is considered the standard for high quality in jewelry although 22k and 14k are more popular. Although higher karat alloys are more flexible and softer, the softer metals do not work well with intricate pieces of jewelry. These softer metals do not do well for pieces that are worn daily such as engagement rings.

Most often platinum titanium and other metals are used for engagement rings because they offer a greater strength and density for gold. This is very important when figuring the prongs or supports for securing the stones. This combination also stands up to potential damages that could loosen the stones.

Caring For Yellow Gold Engagement Rings

Gold cleans up really well with mild soap and water or with jewelry cleansers including alcohol and ammonia. Ammonia is an excellent choice to brighten gold and add a sparkle. Unfortunately it should not be used on diamonds that are fractured-filled. The ammonia will cause the gems to turn cloudy and can cause discoloration. Clean with a soft cloth and stay away from brushes as they can easily scratch your gold.

Chlorine can cause damage to gold including pitting. Always remove all gold, including your ring when swimming in pools or going into a hot tub. With any applications of chlorine for cleaning or other reasons, remove your ring!

When storing your engagement ring, place it in a cloth or special gem lined box before placing in any jewelry box as other gems will also scratch your gold. This will also prevent your diamond from scratching other gems as diamonds are the hardest gem and can cut other gems.

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Gold, unlike other metals, has a wonderful sheen that is classic in many jewelry pieces and especially popular for engagement rings. Gold is popular, traditional and timeless for women seeking a classic and vintage look that will always be in style.

 

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