Choosing the Metal

Gold - 14K versus 18K

Pure gold in nature is 24 carat. That is too soft a material for making jewelry, and so pure gold has to be mixed with other metals such as silver, copper, nickel or zinc to increase its strength, so that your jewelry is strong enough for daily wear.

14K is 58% pure gold and 42% alloy metals, while 18K contains 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.

The decision between 14 carat and 18 carat should be based on your lifestyle and on how you will wear your jewelry.

Those with an active lifestyle would do better to consider 14 carat gold jewelry, since the piece is stronger and stands up better to sport, manual work and regular day-to-day activity. 14 carat gold is more resistant to wear and is therefore ideal for everyday use. For that reason it is the most popular choice for white gold engagement rings (opens in new tab) and other everyday pieces.

The price of 18 carat gold is higher than that of 14 carat gold because of its higher gold content. Jewelry in 18 carat gold is more popular at social occasions and special events, such as on the red carpet. 18 carat gold jewelry is strong enough for everyday wear, even if you have a demanding lifestyle.

Although 18 carat jewelry carries a higher price, the difference in monetary value alone should not determine your purchasing decision. You should also take into account history, everyday use, circumstances and sentimental value.

Bear in mind that both 14 carat and 18 carat will hold diamonds and gemstones securely for a lifetime with appropriate care. In any case, we recommend checking every few months that the piece is not showing wear and that the stones are still held firmly.

Platinum

Platinum (opens in new tab) is a very rare metal, thirty-five times rarer than gold. The platinum used for jewelry is 95% pure platinum combined with 5% other metals.

Because platinum is such a hard metal, it will not wear away, and jewelry made from it will keep the same shape for a lifetime.

Platinum is heavier than gold and is valued by those who like the feel of heavier, more substantial jewelry that does not look heavy.

Not every goldsmith knows how to work in platinum. This metal is more popular in the United States.

The color of platinum

Platinum is naturally white and will not fade or change color. That said, because of its relative scarcity and the higher cost of the labor involved, it is significantly more expensive than gold. For a fuller comparison of the metals and how to care for them, a dedicated precious metals guide (opens in new tab) is useful; and because the metal is chosen when the ring is made, buying closer to the source lets you pair your stone with white gold, yellow gold or platinum and compare the price of each before deciding.