Ep. 24 - All That Glitters: A Guide to the Different Types of Gold for Your Engagement Ring and Fine Jewelry

Gold has been treasured for centuries for its rarity and beauty, but did you know that not all gold is the same? In this episode, we'll explore the different types of gold and what makes them unique. 

Understanding the "K" in Gold Jewelry
The "K" in gold jewelry stands for "karat", which refers to the purity of the gold. Pure gold is too soft to be used in jewelry, so it's mixed with other metals to make it stronger and more durable. The karat measurement indicates the percentage of pure gold in the alloy. For example, 24K gold is 100% pure gold, while 18K gold is 75% pure gold and 25% other metals.

18K, 14K, and 10K Gold
The most common types of gold used in engagement rings and fine jewelry are 18K, 14K, and 10K gold. 18K gold is the most pure of the three, with 75% gold and 25% other metals. It has a rich, warm color and is less likely to cause allergic reactions. 14K gold is 58.3% gold and 41.7% other metals, making it more durable than 18K gold. It's also more affordable and has a slightly lighter color. 10K gold is the least pure of the three, with only 41.7% gold and 58.3% other metals. It's the most durable and affordable option, but has a paler color.

Popular Gold Colors for Jewelry

Gold is available in a variety of colors, including yellow, white, and rose gold. Yellow gold is the most traditional and classic color for gold jewelry and engagement rings. White gold is created by mixing gold with white metals like nickel, palladium, or silver. It has a sleek, modern look and is often used as a setting for diamonds. Rose gold is created by mixing gold with copper, giving it a warm, pinkish hue. It's become increasingly popular in recent years for its romantic and feminine look.

Choosing the right type of gold for your engagement ring or fine jewelry is a personal decision that depends on your style, budget, and preference for durability. Whether you prefer the warmth of yellow gold, the modern look of white gold, or the romantic hue of rose gold, there's a type of gold that's perfect for you. We hope this episode has helped you understand the different types of gold and make an informed decision for your next jewelry purchase. Thanks for listening!

If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at andy@buylikeaguy.com. I'm happy to personally help you find the right jewelry for your special occasion, or put you in touch with a jewelry pro that's closer to home.

Or, you can shop online at my jewelry store right here: https://www.koehnjewelry.com/

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head.  They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987