Information about Gold, Platinum, and Silver You Should Know Before You Buy

GOLD

Gold’s element symbol is (Au) from the Latin word “ Aurum “.  Its atomic number is 79. Its atomic weight is 196.96655(2)

The use of the word “ GOLD “ by itself usually means made of all gold or 24kt. Because 24kt gold is so soft, it is usually mixed with additional metals to increase its hardness and durability for the jewelry industry.  The purity of gold used in jewelry varies from 10 karat (.418 gold), through 14kt (.585), 18kt (.752), 22 kt (.918), to 24 karat (.999), which is pure gold. The proportion of pure gold, expressed as its karat (kt) value defines gold purity.  The color of gold depends upon the amount and type of impurities it contains.  Base gold is typically golden yellow, but in order to vary its color and increase its hardness for use in jewelry; gold may be alloyed with other metals. Silver, copper, platinum, nickel, iron, or zinc may be added to give gold metal present a pale or white, rose or pink, or hint of blue color.  In many countries Gold jewelry is “hallmarked” to indicate its degree of gold purity.

14kt Rolled Gold/Artist wire

The term “Rolled Gold “ refers to a process of manufacturing of the raw wire materials. The manufacturer of the materials uses two ingots of 14k solid gold one on top and the other on the bottom. With a special formulated base metal identical in color to the gold, in the middle.  These items are then drawn through a diamond draw plate to the desired gauge and shape.  Resulting in a wire that is strong enough and pliable enough for the jewelry industry to work with.  This type of wire has been used for nearly a century in the watch and jewelry industry and is commonly found in European countries.  This product offers the wear-ability, beauty, and durability of gold at an affordable price.

Platinum

Platinum’s element symbol is (Pt) from the Spanish “ Platina”. Its atomic number is 78. Its atomic weight is 195.078(2)

It was not until the late 1500’s that Spanish explorers of Columbia discovered this metal. They named it “Platina” meaning “Silver of Little Value” because they did not know what to do with it.  Platinum has come a long way since it’s discovery over 400 years ago.  The fact is that Platinum has climbed to the top of the “Noble” metals list. Usually, only the finest quality jewelry is made from platinum.  It is the white noble metal that has been fighting it’s way back into consumer’s hearts.  Like Gold, Platinum must be alloyed with other metals to make it suitable for jewelry use.  The most popular alloys for jewelry are 90% platinum - 10% iridium and 95% platinum – 5% ruthenium.  These two alloys are similar in their characteristics.

Silver

Silver’s element symbol is (Ag). Its atomic number is 47. Its atomic weight is 107.8682(2).  ilver is rated .999 as Fine Sterling Silver.  Fine Silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% alloy.