You are probably wondering if yellow gold is a suitable metal for your jewelry? We will help to answer this!
To do so, we will first talk in more detail about the main characteristics of this metal, then we will provide some advice and finally assess the advantages and disadvantages of yellow gold.
The basics
Before we get into the major characteristics of yellow gold, let's review some of the essentials about gold.
The main characteristics of yellow gold
When we think of a precious metal, we often instinctively think of yellow gold. And rightly so, since yellow gold is the benchmark in this category and particularly in jewelry... for several reasons:
—— 1. 18K yellow gold, the precious metal of reference
Yellow gold is a metal that is perfectly suited for jewelry worn on a daily basis.
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First of all, it is a very resistant metal. As we have seen in the basics, 18K gold is a perfect balance to make it a very solid, very hard metal and therefore the most able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life, especially for a ring.
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Gold is a metal that is extremely resistant to corrosion. It will therefore be very durable over time. This is why it has been used since the beginning of time for precious objects that must last for centuries.
For all these reasons, we particularly recommend 750/1000 yellow gold for a piece of jewelry that will be worn on a daily basis, such as a wedding band or engagement ring.
Beyond its resistance and hardness, yellow gold is a reference metal because of its colour.
—— 2. Yellow gold, an emblematic colour
When polished, gold naturally reveals a very bright yellow colour. This exceptional characteristic has made it successful and famous throughout the centuries.
The fact that gold is inherently yellow is a real advantage for use in jewelry because it means that your yellow gold jewelry will never lose its colour over time!
This can be a decisive point in your choice as this is not the case for all precious metals, even for its closest relatives such as white gold or black gold for example.
It is no coincidence that this metal has been used for thousands of years for decorative purposes. Its colour has stood the test of time and has become a reference for precious objects.
Perfectly suited for those looking for a traditional metal for your jewelry, it is often compared to rose gold, why?
—— 3. What is the difference between yellow gold and rose gold?
The answer is simple: it's a question of colour.
Rose gold is actually a base of yellow gold in which the percentage of copper has simply been increased. It is this change that gives this metal its special colour: "slightly brown with copper highlights".
This is the only difference between yellow gold and rose gold.
If you want to know more, find all our information on rose gold.
—— 4. Yellow gold suitable for traditional combinations
First of all, the composition of a piece of jewelry is very personal and depends on individual taste! So, there is never a universal and absolute rule to make your choice, you are obviously totally free to wear the jewel you like!
However, here are some tips to help you make the best choice without limiting you in your choice of association.
First of all, unlike white gold or platinum, yellow gold is by definition a coloured metal, so beware: tnot all combinations are equally harmonious.
Yellow gold goes particularly well with coloured stones such as sapphire, diamond, tanzanite or ruby. On the other hand, its colour tends to slightly hide and erase more pastel coloured stones such as aquamarine or tourmaline.
Gemstones most frequently used in partnership with a yellow gold ring:
DiamondThose least frequently used:
What should we remember about yellow gold ?
—— Its advantages:
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It is the precious metal of reference.
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18K yellow gold is the most resistant metal used in jewelry.
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It appeals to both men and women.
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Its resistance over time makes it an almost unalterable metal.
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It will keep its colour without ever fading.
—— Its disadvantages:
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Yellow gold does not go well with all coloured stones.
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It has a look that is sometimes considered too classic or traditional.
In conclusion
750 yellow gold (or 18K) is the best quality gold you will find in jewelry.
It is the precious metal of reference, classic, very resistant, unalterable. We recommend it for all types of jewelry and particularly for those worn on a daily basis such as a wedding band or an engagement ring !
It is a metal that will require very little maintenance to last over time. Proof of this is in the wedding bands of our grandparents and our parents that they were able to keep their whole lives and beyond...