All jewelry-grade karated gold is combined with other metals to increase its strength and wearability. 24K gold is extremely soft and malleable, so it's normally combined with copper and silver, thus leading to the hallmark of the jewelry's purity as 18K, 14k or 10K gold.
This gold alloy gets its color from the addition of copper. The more copper added to the mix, the deeper the shade of rose. For a nice medium rose shade the combination is 1 part copper to 3 parts 24K gold.
Beside the price, the big difference in wearing rose gold versus copper is the oxidation factor which forms the cool green verdigris finish on copper decorations. However, this same oxidation process is the cause of green marks on the skin when copper jewelry is worn. It washes off, but many find it to be unslightly.
Also, it's possible to really refine the mixure of cooper to karated gold to come up with shades from a light delicate pink to a deep rose.
Gimmel Ring
A gimmel ring is a great example of the combining of karated gold and its alloys. This ancient style of ring has gained contemporary popularity in wedding rings. Three hoops are linked: one each in gold, rose and white karated gold.
Rose Gold Jewelry Suggestions
Like the idea of wearing this metal shade? Here are some pretty cost effective suggestions:
- Alexis Bittar - the king of Lucite jewelry also has a line of 18K vermeil bangles. Check out his "Elements" line of jewelry. On the more pricey side, each bangle retails at $185. Not sure what vermeil is? This denotes sterling silver jewelry that has been plated with karated gold.
- How about a rose gold statement necklace? Check out Yochi Design's brass necklace plated with 18K gose gold. This is a five strand 32" necklace that retails for $32. Call 212.947.7826 to find a nearby retailer.
- Amazon - Ladies' Seiko rose gold tone watch made from rose tone stainless steel with a white mother of pearl modern looking face. Water resistance to 165 feet it retails for $118.79 and is eligible for free shipping.
Russian Gold and Rose Gold - What's the Difference?
Rose gold was first introduced in Russia in the 19th century; therefore it was briefly referred to as Russian gold. Any jeweler still using this reference most likely just wants to add a little flair to the sale. It's now commonly sold and manufactured throughout the globe.
The Romance of Rose Gold
As this precious metal can be alloyed into a luminous pink or rose shade it's a popular choice for Valentine's Day gifting.
Source:
- Newman, Harold. An Illustrated Dictionary of Jewelry. London: Thames and Hudson, 1981
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