My small handmade recycled solid gold jewellery business is based in the UK so I predominantly use 9ct and 18ct gold. In the UK jewellery industry, various kinds of gold are used to create different types of jewellery, each offering unique properties in terms of colour, durability, and cost.
The main types of gold I use include:
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Yellow Gold:
- 9ct Yellow Gold: Contains 37.5% pure gold and is mixed with other metals such as copper and silver. It's more durable and less expensive than higher carat gold.
- 18ct Yellow Gold: Contains 75% pure gold and is mixed with 25% other metals like copper and silver, offering a rich yellow color with good durability.
- 22ct Yellow Gold: Contains 91.6% pure gold and is mixed with a small amount of other metals. It has a deep yellow hue but is softer and less suitable for detailed jewellery.
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White Gold:
- 9ct White Gold: Contains 37.5% pure gold, mixed with metals like nickel, palladium, and manganese to give it a white color. Often rhodium-plated for enhanced whiteness.
- 18ct White Gold: Contains 75% pure gold and is alloyed with palladium or nickel. It offers a more luxurious look and is often rhodium-plated for a bright, reflective finish.
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Rose Gold:
- 9ct Rose Gold: Contains 37.5% pure gold, alloyed with copper and a bit of silver to achieve its pinkish hue. It's durable and relatively affordable.
- 18ct Rose Gold: Contains 75% pure gold, mixed with copper and silver for a richer pink color. It is more expensive and has a softer tone compared to 9ct.
These different types of gold provide a range of options for everyone, catering to preferences for colour, durability, and budget. The choice of gold type impacts the final appearance and feel of the jewellery piece but every single one will be uniquely handmade by me!
Got an idea for a handmade solid recycled gold ring, necklace or earrings? Please get in touch and share your ideas: