Gold is a precious metal that has been used for jewelry and other decorative items for centuries. But have you ever wondered which type of gold is best for you? In its purest form, gold is too soft to be used in jewelry. That’s why it is mixed with other alloy metals. Depending on the metal used, there are three main types of gold that are most commonly used in jewelry: rose gold, white gold, and yellow gold.
Each type of gold has its own unique properties and benefits. But it can be tricky to decide which one is right for you. Let us go through the differences between rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold so that you can make an informed decision about which type of gold is perfect for you.
What is the difference between rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold?
Rose Gold
Rose gold gets its unique color from an alloy of copper and gold. Its pinkish vintage aesthetic makes rose gold perfect for antique-style jewelry or for similar pieces in that style. It can be considered either gender-neutral or feminine. It depends on your preferences. Rose gold has been increasing in popularity in recent years, thanks to its unique color. If you are seeking a distinctive looking type of jewelry, then rose gold is your answer.
White Gold
White gold is similar (but different) to platinum: They are both bright and shiny. However, that’s where the parallels end. White gold is forged from different metals, such as silver, nickel, zinc, and palladium. White gold is long-lasting but it needs to be re-plated every 5 to 10 years to retain its look. Oftentimes, a rhodium plating will do the job. White gold is popular as an affordable alternative to platinum while sharing a sleek and chic appearance.
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold retains the color of pure gold but is strengthened when combined with other metal alloys, such as copper, silver, zinc, and nickel. Depending on the requirements, it might be plated with a thin layer of pure gold to give it its characteristic splendid luster.
When you think about traditional gold jewelry, it’s yellow gold you are thinking about. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and it has a timeless elegance about it. Yellow gold jewelry is prized for its beauty and durability. It’s great for a classic piece of jewelry, but it is also available in a wide range of styles.
Now that you know the difference between the three types of gold, let’s compare them on other factors to see what is right for you.
What color gold is more expensive: rose gold, yellow gold, or white gold?
In the case of any type of gold jewelry, the price will depend on how much pure gold was used to make it. The higher the karat of a jewelry piece, the greater the purity of gold used in it, and the higher the price shall be. Therefore, the price difference between rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold will change on the karat value.
For instance, a 14k white gold, rose gold, and yellow gold ring would cost the same or fall in a similar price range whereas a 14k white gold and an 18k white gold ring would have a significant price difference.
Therefore, if budget is your primary consideration in your purchasing decision, it’s important to know ahead of time how many karats you want in your piece. This will affect the price.
What color gold is the strongest: yellow gold, rose gold or white gold?
Since gold is malleable, the durability of the jewelry will depend on how much gold is present in the metal. 14k and 18k gold are stronger than a 24k gold piece. How long it will last will depend on what type of gold is in the jewelry you are looking to buy.
For engagement rings and wedding rings, it is advisable to go with 14k and 18k gold. If you are intending to buy a necklace, bracelet or earrings to wear only on special occasions, then a higher karat is ok. But hardiness of the piece depends on both the karat and the metal composition.
What stone goes well with yellow gold?
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing gemstones for yellow gold jewelry.
First, consider the color of the stone. Yellow gold looks best with stones that are clear (such as diamonds or clear topaz), deep blue (such as blue sapphire or tanzanite), green (such as emerald or peridot), vivid (such as pink tourmaline or amethyst) or fiery (such as amber or citrine).
Second, think about the cut of the stone. Yellow gold looks best with stones that have a round or oval cut, as these shapes tend to be flattering on everyone.
Finally, don’t forget about clarity! Yellow gold looks best with stones that are free of any blemishes or imperfections, so be sure to choose stones that are of high quality.
What stone goes well with rose gold?
Rose gold is a popular choice for jewelry. Thus, a variety of gemstones will complement this metal. Pink sapphires, rubies, and tourmalines have an elegant hue that makes them ideal choices for rose gold settings. Other good options include pink topaz and red garnet. Rose gold is also stunning when paired with purple amethysts or green emeralds. If you’re looking for something with a bit more sparkle, diamonds are always a classic.
Whether you’re looking for something subtle or eye-catching, there’s a gemstone that will perfectly accent your rose gold jewelry.
What stone goes well looks best with white gold?
The gems that match white gold tend to be darker stones or stones with intense colors that contrast with the shiny metal.
Blue sapphires, emeralds, and rubies will stand out in white gold jewelry. Other vivid options are amethysts, garnets, and tourmalines. If you want to add a stone with sparkle, you can’t go wrong with a diamond.
Can skin be sensitive to gold jewelry?
Before you select your preferred type of gold, you should check if you are allergic to nickel. This matters since nickel is one of the alloys used frequently to make gold jewelry.
If you happen to have a nickel allergy, then your best bet is to invest in 14k or 18k rose gold or yellow gold. White gold is likelier to have nickel in it (but yellow gold – especially 24k gold wont have any nickel – so it might not cause a reaction) However, remember that the higher the karat, the more expensive it gets.
Which is better: Rose gold, yellow gold or white gold?
So, what’s the verdict? Which metal is best for you when it comes to jewelry pieces? If you prefer a cool and sleek look, white gold might be perfect for you; if you want something with a warmer tone that will complement your skin color better, rose gold could be ideal. And if neither of those quite fit what you’re looking for, yellow gold offers a classic look that never goes out of style.
In short, it depends on your preferences. Ultimately, the decision is up to you – but this blog post can help make the process easier by providing you with the information about each type of gold metal that you need to make your call. There’s no wrong answer. There’s only what you like.