Unlike other some other materials, gold won't tarnish, rust or corrode. It is very strong yet it is the most malleable of all metals. Pure gold is too soft to be used in jewelry so it is alloyed with a mixture of other metals including cooper, nickel, zinc, or silver to give it more strength and durability.
Karatage, noted by a number followed by "k" indicates purity, or how much of the metal is gold.
Karatage is expressed in 24ths, making 24k gold 100% gold. Fine jewelry usually ranges from 10K to 18K and the purer the gold, the softer it will be and the more expensive it will be.
Karatage also impacts the richness of color. Yellow gold is richer in 18k gold compared to 10k gold. With white gold, the color usually is enhanced using rhodium, a hard and durable plating. Over time, if the rhodim plating begins to wear, white gold jewelry can be restored to it's original color using a simple process that can be performed by most any jeweler. There is one type of White Gold that does not require rhodium plating. It is known as x1 gold. Rose gold is mixed with copper which gives it the beautiful pink color.
When properly cared for, gold jewelry can last a lifetime. Gold jewelry should be stored separate from other pieces to avoid scratching. It is best to remove jewelry before bathing as soap can leave a film. Removing jewelry pieces before strenuous activity can help prevent scratching. Gold can be cleaned with commercial jewelry cleaning products. A soft gold polishing cloth can be used for polishing.
