FAQs About 18k Gold Jewelry

Hi! New here? Nice to meet you. We are Gold and Smoke and we offer a collection of empowerment jewelry for men and women, created using flattened bullets cast in fine metals such as 18k gold and sterling silver. This modern, inspirational jewelry collection is proudly manufactured in the USA, created using metals suitable for everyday wear.

Got questions about what 18k gold actually is? Here are some questions people ask!

What does 18k gold mean?

18k gold is an alloy that is made up of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals, such as silver, copper, nickel, or zinc. The gold content in 18k gold is 75% and the remaining 25% is made up of other metals. Pure gold, or 100% gold, is called 24k. In the USA, customers tend to prefer 14k or 18k over 24k, as 24k gold is softer and wears faster due to it’s higher gold content.

18k gold is a popular choice for use in fine jewelry because it is more affordable than pure gold while still retaining a high gold content.

What is the difference between 14k and 18k gold?

The main difference between 14k gold and 18k gold is the amount of gold that they contain. 14k gold is an alloy that is made up of 14 parts gold and 10 parts other metals, such as silver, copper, nickel, or zinc. The gold content in 14k gold is 58.5% and the remaining 41.5% is made up of other metals. 18k gold, on the other hand, is an alloy that is made up of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals. The gold content in 18k gold is 75% and the remaining 25% is made up of other metals.

18k gold is often preferred for use in fine jewelry because it has a higher gold content and a more luxurious appearance.

Why choose 18k gold?

Besides for, because it’s rich and beautiful, there are several positive aspects to setting diamonds in 18k gold pendant jewelry:

Luxurious appearance: 18k gold has a high gold content, which gives it a rich, luxurious appearance. When paired with diamonds, the combination of gold and diamonds creates a stunning, high-end look that is perfect for special occasions or everyday wear.

Versatility: 18k gold is available in a range of colors, including yellow, white, and rose gold. This allows you to choose a color that best complements the diamonds and your personal style.

Durability: 18k gold is a strong and durable alloy, making it suitable for use in pendant jewelry that will be worn frequently. With proper care and handling, 18k gold pendant jewelry can last for many years. In other words, use your noggin and take all your jewelry off before you handle rocks, gravel, sharp edges, wood, etc, you get the point!

Affordability: While 18k gold is more valuable than 10k and 14k, it is still an affordable option for fine jewelry. It is a good choice for those who want the look of gold without the high price tag of 24k gold.

Elegant look: When diamonds are set in 18k gold pendant jewelry, the result is an elegant and sophisticated look that is suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether dressed up or dressed down, diamond pendant jewelry set in 18k gold is a timeless and stylish choice.

Are there differences between 18k white, yellow and rose gold?

Yes, there are differences between 18k white, yellow, and rose gold. The main difference between these types of gold is the color, which is determined by the metals that are added to the gold alloy.

18k white gold is an alloy that is made up of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals, such as silver, copper, nickel, or zinc. The other metals are chosen for their ability to give the gold a white color. White gold is often plated with a thin layer of rhodium, a shiny white metal in the platinum family, to give it a brighter, more lustrous appearance.

18k yellow gold is an alloy that is made up of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals, such as silver, copper, nickel, or zinc. The other metals are chosen for their ability to give the gold a yellow color. Yellow gold is the traditional color of gold and has a warm, classic appearance.

18k rose gold is an alloy that is made up of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals, such as copper or silver. The addition of copper gives the gold a pink or rose color. Rose gold has a soft, romantic look and is a popular choice in fine jewelry.

How should I care for my 18k gold jewelry?

Store your gold jewelry carefully:

To prevent your gold jewelry from getting scratched or damaged, it is important to store it carefully. Avoid storing your gold jewelry in the same box or drawer as other jewelry, as the pieces can rub against each other and cause scratches. Instead, store your gold jewelry in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with individual compartments for each piece.

Clean your gold jewelry regularly: Over time, gold jewelry can become dirty or tarnished. To clean your gold jewelry, soak it in a solution of warm water and mild dish soap for a few minutes, then gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush. Rinse the jewelry thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the gold.

Handle your gold jewelry with care: 18k gold is a softer alloy and can be prone to scratching or bending. To prevent damage, handle your gold jewelry with care. Avoid wearing it when you are engaged in activities that may cause it to be bumped or knocked, such as sports or heavy manual labor.

Get your gold jewelry professionally cleaned and checked: To keep your gold jewelry looking its best, it is a good idea to have it professionally cleaned and checked on a regular basis. A skilled jeweler can clean your gold jewelry thoroughly and check for any damage that may need to be repaired.

Do not expose your gold jewelry to chlorine!: Chlorine is highly damaging to gold and can ruin your entire piece of jewelry. Do not swim in your jewelry, wear it in a hot tub, or expose it to bleach-containing cleaning chemicals.