What to Know Before You Buy Gold Jewellery: Karats, Colours & Care

When you’re shopping for a piece of fine jewellery, whether it’s a gift or an investment for yourself, it’s easy to get swept away by the sparkle. But if you’ve ever wondered what actually makes gold “yellow” or how white gold differs from silver, you’re not alone. Here's what you should know about gold jewellery before you buy.

What Do Karats Mean in Gold Jewellery?

You’ll often see gold described as 10k, 14k, or even 24k. That “k” stands for karat - a measure of how much pure gold is in the piece.

• 24 Karat Gold is 100% pure gold. It has a bright yellow colour but is very soft, so it’s not ideal for everyday jewellery like rings or bracelets.

• 18 Karat Gold is 75% pure gold mixed with other metals. It’s rich in colour but a bit more durable than 24k.

• 14 Karat Gold is 58.3% gold. It strikes a good balance between beauty and strength, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and everyday pieces.

• 10 Karat Gold is 41.7% gold. It’s the most durable and affordable option, though it has a paler colour than higher-karat gold.

Tip: Higher karat = more gold = softer and more expensive. Lower karat = more durable and budget-friendly.

Yellow, White & Rose Gold: What’s the Difference?

The colour of gold jewellery depends on the metals it’s mixed with. Pure gold is naturally yellow, but when blended with other metals, it can take on different tones:

• Yellow Gold – Classic and timeless. Created by mixing pure gold with copper and silver to keep that rich, warm hue. Looks great on all skin tones and is easy to maintain.

• White Gold – Sleek and modern. Made by combining gold with white metals like nickel or palladium, then plated with rhodium to give it that bright, silvery finish. It’s a popular choice for engagement rings.

• Rose Gold – Romantic and trendy. Gets its pink tint from a higher copper content. Rose gold has a warm, vintage look that many love for its uniqueness.

What About Silver? Is It the Same as White Gold?

Not quite! While silver and white gold might look similar, they’re very different in composition and care.

• Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure silver, mixed with other metals (usually copper) to make it stronger. It’s more affordable than gold, but if not rhodium plated, it can tarnish over time and may require more maintenance.

• White Gold is made with real gold and coated with rhodium to enhance durability and shine. It doesn’t tarnish the way silver does, but the rhodium coating will eventually wear and may need to be re-applied.

In short: If you love the white-metal look but want something more durable and luxurious, white gold is the way to go. If you’re looking for a beautiful piece on a budget, sterling silver is a fantastic choice. We recommend going with sterling silver that has been either rhodium or gold plated.

How to Care for Your Gold and Silver Jewellery

Whichever metal you choose, taking good care of your jewellery will keep it looking its best:

• White Gold: Rhodium plating wears off over time, especially on rings. To keep that bright finish, you might need to re-plate every 1–2 years.

• Yellow & Rose Gold: These don’t usually need re-plating. Just clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Or bring them into your local jeweller for a proper buff and polish (they will come back looking brand new!)

• Silver: Silver that has not been plated tarnishes naturally. Store it in an airtight bag when not in use and polish with a silver cloth as needed.

Also, avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals (like chlorine, perfume, or cleaning products), and remove it before swimming, exercising, or showering.

Final Thoughts: Choose What Fits Your Style and Lifestyle

The right metal for you depends on your personal taste, how often you plan to wear the piece, and how much maintenance you're comfortable with. Whether you go with classic yellow gold, modern white gold, soft rose gold, or timeless silver, knowing the differences will help you shop smarter and love your jewellery longer.