History of gold

What are the colors of gold ?

You are looking for an engagement ring, a wedding ring or a piece of gold jewelry ? You want another color that is out of the ordinary ? It's entirely possible! Gold can take on up to nine different colors. In these lines, we teach you more about the colors of gold!

WHAT IS THE COLOR OF RAW GOLD ?

Gold is not made by man, but is found in the ground. To recover it, there are several methods, including mining. The recovered gold can be agglomerated with other metals. Mining companies then put the gold through several treatments to purify it. Gold can also be found in the form of nuggets or small crystals. Naturally, the gold mined is golden. Its yellow color is found in jewelry creations, in jewelry, but also on many objects made from pure gold. However, the use of pure gold is restricted. Gold is by nature malleable, ductile and fragile. Jewelers cannot use gold as is. It must then be mixed with other metals, this is what we call an “alloy”. This addition can:

  • Guarantee better hardness to gold: 18 carat gold is composed of 75% pure gold, 12.5% ​​silver and 12.5% ​​copper;
  • Bring a new shade.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT COLORS OF GOLD ?

The different compositions of gold make it possible to create up to nine colors. The major jewelry houses offer specific alloys to give particular nuances to their jewelry. As a general rule, new compositions offer the following colors:

  • 20 carat white gold: 83.3% pure gold and 16.7% palladium;
  • 18-karat white gold: 75% pure gold, 18.5% silver, 1% copper and 5.5% zinc;
  • 18-carat red gold: 75% fine gold and 25% copper;
  • 18-carat pink gold: 75% fine gold, 2.75% silver and 22.25% copper;

Obtaining gold of lower purity is done by reducing the quantity of pure gold and increasing the percentage of other metals (platinum, etc.). As for black gold, its color is due to a gold and cobalt alloy. It can also be white gold, treated with black rhodium.

WHY CHANGE THE COLOR OF GOLD ?

Changing the color of gold can meet several needs:

  • Marriage gold and precious stones: white gold adapts to all stones, including diamonds;
  • Bring a touch of originality;
  • Facilitate the work of craftsmen: the creation of alloys offers new possibilities to jewelers (mixing colors, finesse, etc.).

You would like to know more about gold or make a purchase of gold ? Gold Union professionals answer all your questions via the e-commerce site or in agency. Do not hesitate to make an appointment, they will accompany you and introduce you to Gold Union products.