How is 9ct Yellow Gold is Made?
How 9ct Yellow Gold is Made?
The majority of my handmade jewellery uses recycled 9ct yellow gold. This type of gold is really popular because it is both precious and affordable.
Gold has been a symbol of wealth, power, and beauty for thousands of years. From ancient civilisations to modern handmade jewellery.
Have you ever wondered how this beautiful metal is made in the first place? The process behind the creation of 9ct yellow gold is fascinating.
Gold Mining
The journey of 9ct yellow gold begins deep underground, where miners extract gold ore from the earth. Gold is typically found in underground veins or alluvial deposits, and mining companies use various techniques to extract the ore from the ground.
Refining
Once the ore is extracted, it undergoes a series of refining processes to extract the pure gold. This usually involves crushing the ore into a fine powder that is then dissolved. The gold is then precipitated out of the solution and further refined to remove any impurities.
Alloying
Pure gold is too soft to be used in jewellery, so it is often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and durability. In the case of 9ct yellow gold, the gold is typically alloyed with other metals such as copper and silver. These metals not only strengthen the gold but also give it its distinctive yellow colour.
Melting and Casting
Once the gold has been alloyed, it is melted down in a furnace and then cast into various shapes such as bars, sheets, or wires. These shapes can then be further processed to create the final product, whether it be a ring, necklace, or bracelet.
Forming the Jewellery
The final step in the process is to take the gold and shape it into the desired piece of jewellery. This is when I use a variety of techniques such as soldering, cutting and hammering. I use my jewellery making expertise to create simple designs and patterns, turning the 9ct solid gold into a beautiful piece of wearable art.
Finishing Touches
When I’ve made each piece of solid recycled 9ct gold jewellery, it undergoes a series of finishing touches to ensure that it is perfect. This may involve polishing the gold to give it a shiny or matt finish, or adding ethically sourced gemstones such as Emeralds, Rubies or Diamonds.
The process of making 9ct yellow gold is a fascinating journey that combines science, art, and craftsmanship. From the depths of the earth to the skilled hands of jewellers, each step in the process plays a crucial role in creating the beautiful pieces of jewellery that can be treasured forever.
If you have an idea for a ring, bangle or necklace that you would like made from solid 9ct recycled gold then get in touch:
sian@sianelizabethhughes.co.uk
Did you know?
I accept your old gold to be recycled into handmade jewellery whether it be as part payment for a new piece of handmade solid gold jewellery or refined and remodelled.