Gold has been valued for centuries due to its rarity, durability, and resistance to most corrosive substances. This metal has been a preferred choice for jewelry and decorative items, admired for its bright luster and malleability.

However, in its pure form (24 karats), it is soft and susceptible to deformation. To enhance its strength and versatility, other metals are blended with it, which can also influence its hue and overall cost.

How Many Types of Gold Exist?

When thinking of gold, most people envision its natural yellow shade. However, it is available in various tones, with white and rose being among the most well-known variations. One of the most intriguing shades is white, which differs significantly from what is commonly seen in jewelry stores.

Key Differences Between White, Yellow, and Rose Gold

The primary distinction between these types lies in the metals combined with pure gold.

Yellow Gold: To create this classic shade, pure gold is blended with silver and copper. Adjusting the ratio of these additional elements results in warmer or more muted hues of yellow.

Rose Gold: Increasing the proportion of copper while reducing silver content produces a pinkish tone, which gives this gold its characteristic warm glow.

White Gold: This version is made by combining pure gold with elements such as palladium and silver. In the past, nickel was commonly used, but due to its potential to cause skin reactions, palladium has become the preferred alternative for its hypoallergenic properties.

Naturally, white gold does not have the bright silvery finish commonly seen in jewelry displays. Instead, it possesses a pale yellow or soft beige hue, similar to certain diamond tones.

Why Does White Gold Appear So Bright in Jewelry Stores?

The striking silvery-white appearance of white gold in jewelry shops is achieved through a finishing process known as rhodium plating. This treatment enhances its brightness and provides a reflective sheen. However, this coating is not permanent and can wear off over time, requiring reapplication to maintain its brilliance.

Some opt for unplated white gold, particularly for handcrafted jewelry and wedding bands, as it does not require frequent upkeep. The natural hue of the alloy is appreciated for its unique charm and authenticity.

Which Type of Gold Is the Most Expensive?

The value of gold jewelry is determined by its purity rather than its color. Gold purity is measured in karats (kt), which indicate how much of the metal is pure gold versus other alloying elements.

The most common purity level is 18kt gold (also known as 750 gold), meaning it consists of 750 parts per 1,000 of pure gold, with the remaining 250 parts made up of additional metals. Lower purity levels, such as 14kt (585 parts per 1,000) or 9kt (375 parts per 1,000), contain less pure gold and more alloying metals.

As the purity decreases, the gold’s hue may become less intense, resulting in a paler shade. The choice of karat level depends on personal preferences and budget, with higher karat gold being more valuable due to its increased purity.

Gold, in all its variations, remains a treasured material for crafting elegant and timeless jewelry. Understanding the differences between white, yellow, and rose gold allows for an informed choice when selecting the perfect piece.