Gold Alloys used for Jewellery
As a general rule, gold metal does not rust, corrode, or tarnish and is very strong. Despite its strength, it is the most malleable of all precious metals when used for jewellery.
Purity
In its purest form is too soft to withstand every-day wear so in order to improve its durability and strength it is alloyed with a mixture of metals including copper, zinc, nickel, and silver.
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- 100% is equivalent to 24 Carat
- 75% is equivalent to 18 Carat – stamped 750 or 18k or 18ct
- 37.5% is equivalent to 9 Carat – stamped 375 or 9k or 9ct
Colour
Colour is determined by two factors- the percentage of each metal alloy mixed with it and the types of metal alloy used.
Caring for platinum is similar to any other precious metal. If your platinum jewellery becomes scratched, it can be brought in for polishing.