Colours of Gold

BRIEF HISTORY & BASIC FACTS ON GOLD:

Gold is the most popular precious metal in the world and because it tends to hold its value, jewellery in particular is a desirable investment.

Gold in its pure form is very soft and so to strengthen it in order to produce jewellery and small intricate items, it must be mixed with other metals. The purity of gold is measured in carats, the most common are 9ct, 14ct, 18ct and 22ct. The Carat is worked out by the amount of pure gold to the percentage of its alloys, mainly silver, copper and zinc; this can also create varying colour of gold which differs according to its alloys and caratage. It is thought that the word ‘carat’ derives from the Middle Eastern word for ‘been seeds’ as apparently seeds or Carob beans were used to weigh gold.

AVAILABILITY OF HIGHER CARAT GOLD:

At times in history when gold was in plentiful supply, the Victorian age for example, it was commonplace to find 24 and 22ct gold jewellery. Generally today, particularly in the West, 24 and 22ct jewellery is rare and costly. 14ct is growing in popularity in Britain and becoming more accessible mainly due to a very well-known American born satellite television shopping channel (recognized worldwide) selling large amounts of quality 14ct gold jewellery;14ct is extremely popular in America. Some antique and early European gold, and occasionally Oriental gold is 10ct or 10k, as is 15ct gold.

9ct AND 18ct GOLD:

9ct yellow gold is the most widely known internationally and undoubtedly the favourite amongst jewellery shoppers as well as jewellery makers in the West. Higher carat gold is preferred and more available in the East and countries such as Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong are renowned for selling high carat gold jewellery in large quantities. However standard 9ct gold is affordable and yet as alluring as higher carat gold jewellery. It is economical for goldsmiths because it has a low percentage of gold, and being strong is more controllable to work with thus better for producing detailed pieces such as fine chains. For higher quality gold jewellery items, perhaps jewelled pieces, 18ct is more favourable and the next most popular, and because it has a higher percentage of gold is more expensive.

WEIGHING & PRICING GOLD:

All jewellery made from precious metal including gold jewellery is normally priced on its total weight. The cost of gold jewellery is calculated per gram and this varies according to the carat of the gold. The difference in purity will determine whether it works out less or more expensive per gram. This pricing system applies to all gold, and the price of gold per gram differs depending on its caratage. When an item is priced on its weight and purity it is called ’scrap’ value. This term has come about mainly from jewellery buyers who buy broken, damaged, second-hand or heavily worn gold items thus ‘scrap’ has evolved to describe buying used gold at a flat rate.

GOLD HALLMARKS AND STAMPS:

Hallmarks on gold should indicate the purity or carat of the gold. Gold stamps or hallmarks used to describe the carat are also calculated by the percentage of gold to the percentage of alloys for example:

Gold Type	Mark
22ct/22kt/22k = 91.6% Gold (remaining usually silver) Gold stamp/hallmark	916
18ct/18kt/18k = 75.0% Gold (remaining silver/silver + copper) Gold stamp/hallmark	750
14ct/14kt/14k = 58.5% Gold (remaining silver/silver + copper) Gold stamp/hallmark	585
9ct/9kt/9k = 37.5% Gold (remaining silver/silver + copper) Gold stamp/hallmark	375

THE COLOURS OF GOLD:

There are different colours of gold stemming from the amount of alloys combined with the pure gold. As mentioned previously the main metals used to form any caratage are Gold, Copper, Silver and Zinc. The two main colours from that group are red (Copper) and yellow (Gold), and the neutral, paler colours are from Silver and Zinc (shades of silver and grey). If we look at it another way, to add red to gold paint results in pinkish tones depending on how much is combined, and the same principles apply to how colours are produced for gold jewellery and small items. The less carat the gold the more varied the colour can be because there is plenty of scope to mix alloys, so 9ct having 37.5% gold means 62.5% can be made up from Copper (red Gold), Copper and Silver (Pink or Rose Gold) or silver (White Gold).

Gold

BUYING NEW AND PRE-OWNED GOLD:

When buying gold ideally it is best to find a good clear hallmark or stamp. As explained already the majority of gold jewellery has the carat stamp, 375, 585, 750 or 916 and this is internationally recognised, however many countries use abbreviated carat information, 9ct/9kt/9k, 18ct/18kt/18k and so on. Abbreviated stamps are also found on antique items although there is a vast amount of antique jewellery which is unmarked. It has been known where genuine beautiful gold jewellery is sometimes mistaken for gold plated or fake gold because it has a mark which is not common or acceptable to that country, on the other hand fake gold can be sold as genuine using an abbreviated stamp and this is on the increase as fake stamps are becoming more sophisticated. If you are unsure ask the seller as many questions as you need in order to feel reassured, be it an online shop, High Street shop or market trader. For total peace of mind you can also buy gold and precious metals testing kits at an affordable price, many companies can be found online and dispatch quickly after payment.

History of Gold

History of Gold


Gold jewellery adds the finishing touch to any outfit and, whatever the occasion, it makes the perfect gift. There are several things to consider when you're choosing your jewellery.

Firstly, aim to build a wardrobe of key pieces - small earrings, large earrings, bracelets, necklaces and pendants. It's a good idea to invest in a set of classic jewellery that never dates. However, buying jewellery in the latest fashion styles is a great way of quickly updating any outfit.

Look through magazines to see what's in fashion and what the celebs are wearing. You don't have to spend a fortune.

Whatever the fashion, adapt it to suit you. The shape of your face, the colour of your skin, the clothes you wear and your personality should all be considered if you want your jewellery to really look good.

Men are increasingly wearing gold jewellery. For a classic look, go for a simple chain or bracelet and add a stylish ring. If you're a little more daring, wear an earring or two.

At H.Samuel, you'll find a wide range of jewellery in classic styles and fashion designs straight off the catwalk. You'll also find a large choice of jewellery especially for him.

Your next step is to decide which colour gold jewellery you want to wear.

Although pure gold is yellow, it can be made into a variety of colours. This is done by changing the types and proportions of metals mixed with it during a process called alloying. The only exceptions to this are 22ct and 24ct gold which are always yellow.

In the UK, white and rose coloured gold are becoming increasingly popular, although choice should come down to personal taste. Also, take into consideration your skin tone and the clothes you are wearing. Many people prefer to wear yellow gold with cream, camel and rustic colours. A combination of yellow, white or rose coloured gold - two or three coloured gold - makes for very versatile jewellery.

White gold jewellery first became popular in the 1920s as an alternative to platinum jewellery. Over the past few years, white gold has become more and more fashionable.

White gold is made by mixing pure gold with other metals, such as silver and palladium, in the alloying process. The white gold you see in jewellery is actually an off-white gold alloy.

Most white gold items are enhanced with rhodium plating, giving a highly reflective white surface. Over time, this surface may experience some loss of brightness. This is perfectly normal, especially with rings that receive more wear and tear. If you prefer the highly reflective rhodium finish, we advise that you have your white gold jewellery periodically rhodium plated. We will re-rhodium plate any white gold jewellery that was bought from H.Samuel free of charge within 12 months, as long as you have proof of purchase. After a year, a small charge will be made. Please contact your local store details.

Caratage is an important factor in buying goldCaratage is an important factor in buying gold jewellery as it indicates how pure the metal is.

Pure gold is very soft which makes it unsuitable for most jewellery. To make it stronger, it is mixed with other metals, such as silver, copper, zinc and palladium. This is called alloying. The gold you see in jewellery is actually gold alloy.

The carat (ct) tells you how may parts of gold and how many parts of other metal are in the gold alloy. Don't confuse this with the carat weight of diamonds and gemstones.

One carat is one part of 24, or 41.66 parts of a thousand. 9ct gold is 375 parts gold per thousand parts. 18ct gold is 750 parts per thousand. 24 carat gold is pure gold.

Preference for a certain caratage is often based on cultural factors. In the UK, 9ct and 18ct is most commonly sold, while in America, 14ct is more popular. In India, 22ct gold is preferred. 24ct gold tends to be used for exchange and investment.

British hallmarking was introduced over 600 years ago and was probably the first example of consumer protection law.

When you're buying gold jewellery, make sure it has a hallmark. This is a quality control mark placed on gold, silver and platinum and provides a safeguard to purchasers. The hallmark on an article shows that it has been tested (assayed) by an independent body (the Assay Office) and guarantees that the metal is of one the legal standards of fineness, or purity. You therefore know exactly what you are buying.

A hallmark also allows your jeweller to quickly identify what carat your jewellery is if you have to take it for repair or alterations. It is illegal for most articles of precious metal above a certain minimum weight to be described, or sold, as gold, silver or platinum, unless they carry an approved hallmark.

• The Sponsor's Mark - This indicates the manufacturer, or sponsor of the item. This consists of the initials of the person or firm who sent in the item for assaying.
• The Fineness Mark - This indicates what the metal is and its standard of purity in parts per thousand.
• The Assay Office Mark - This identifies the Assay Office at which the item was tested and marked.

There are also optional marks:

• The Common Control Mark - This contains the standard of purity. The shape of the shield indicates what the metal is.
• The Pictorial Quality Symbol - This indicates the metal by picture.
• The Date Letter - This indicates which year the item was submitted for hallmarking.

Earrings

Earrings

Owing to the complete revival of the traditional styles in jewelry designing, the buyers are getting more inclined towards the contemporary designs of jewelry. The extremely talented Indian artisans understand the taste of customers worldwide and design exquisite jewelry items keeping in view both the traditional and contemporary styles.

Pure Jewelry
The astonishing variety and aesthetic composition of earrings made of gold & silver and studded with precious stones looks very elegant and clearly speaks of the fine Indian workmanship. The Kashmiri brahmin women wear jewels on long strings, hanging from the inner soft cartolage of the ears that is locally called, the atteroo. In India, the social significance attached to gold jewelry, is immense. Gold jewelry given to a bride, is considered “Streedhan” ( a woman’s wealth) and will stand her in good stead in times of adversity.

Costume/Imitation Jewelry
A wide range of elegant costume/imitation jewelry provides an enduring personal accomplishment and satisfaction to the buyers. These highly stylized and swanky earrings truly capture the onlookers attention and are available in variety of embellishments and combinations using Glass, Plastic, Horn, Bone, MOP, Wood, Leather, Brass, Aluminium, EPNS, Resin, Thread and Semi-precious stones

Chokers

Chokers

Chokers are tight-fitting necklaces or collars which are meant to be worn high on the neck. It may be one or more bands encircling the neck which are made from inexpensive and semiprecious materials. In earlier times, chokers were worn by people during ceremonies to display their wealth and rank. Traditionally every material that was used to make the choker had a religious and social significance though now they just have an ornamental value. These function as flashy but less expensive jewelery & therefore are very much in vogue.

Chokers display fine craftsmanship & the dazzling effect created on them makes them more appealing which are completely unmatched.

Materials
In usage since time immemorial, chokers fit in easily with any kind of attire, be it formal, casual or ceremonial. They are found as costume chokers, imitate chokers & are quite popular among buyers simply because of their cheap price, attractiveness and style.

• Bone Choker
• Gold Choker
• Silver Choker
• Brass Choker
• Beaded Choker
• Metallic Choker
• Leather Choker:
• Glass Choker
• Plastic Choker
• Lac Choker

Design and Finish
Chokers come with distinct designs and finishes & each differ as per their usages & the different occasions they are meant for. Varying from crystal chokers to semiprecious gem chokers, from embroidered leather chokers, to beaded and metallic chokers, these handmade jewelry items are often stringed together with beads, stones and shells & a set of other embellishing materials to impart a unique design to each item. These are chic and trendy & often gold plated & comes with finishes like oxidized or matte finish.

Necklaces

Necklaces

Necklace refers to any continuous band or chain, worn around the neck as an ornament. They are made in variegated designs and distinct styles that have been brought forth to the international markets by Indian manufacturers. The Indian jewelry industry is marked by diversity and an endless choice of designs.
These necklaces can belong to the category of both:

Pure Jewelry
The necklaces in this category are made of gold & silver and studded with a variety of precious and semi-precious stones. In India, typical forms of necklaces are considered extremely auspicious for marital bliss. A manglasutra, a necklace made of black beads and gold, is a must for the married woman. The necklaces are often adorned with gold and precious stone work, fashioned into plain as well as caved necklaces.

Costume Jewelry
Exquisite necklaces as costume jewelry items are highly popular among the fashion conscious generation of today. Embedded with luxurious beads, glitters and other decorative accessories, necklaces are made in a variety of metals like:

Brass EPNS Aluminium Leather

Shell Wood Horn

Bangles

Bangles

Bangles are typically bracelets that are made without clasps or closures. They can be elegantly worn singly or in bunches. The importance attached to bangles by a married woman is almost paranoic. Along with gold, glass bangles are considered a symbol of the well-being of her husband abd sons in certain communities.

These days, Bangle bracelet are now worn by fashion conscious young girls with as much style as their mothers and grandmothers wore as part of ritual and tradition. With bold flashes of color and wonderful motifs like anchors and flowers, the bangles are perfect accessories to spruce up any outfit. Click here to view unique range of Silver Bangles.

Pure Jewelry
In India, gold has a religious connotation and a deep social significance. Exquisite bangles are made of gold or silver and studded with precious diamonds for an enhanced appeal. These bangles are created in eye-catching and magnificent designs, earning the patronage of discerning clients, worldwide. These gold and silver jewelry from all parts of India draw the inspiration of patterns from flowers, leaves, fruits, fish, stars and the moon.

Costume/Imitation Jewelry
There is no place for stagnation in Indian art and craft, for although forms are repeated, they are free from imitative intent.The casual, fun and swanky styles of bangles as important costume jewelry items are made of a variety of materials like:

Lac Metal Beads Stone Conch Terracotta

Wooden Horn Bone MOP Pearl Plastic

Jewellery

Jewellery Design Collections

Jewelery has been part of the Indian civilization since ancient history. They were in fashion since ancient civilizations as Harappa and Mohanjodaro. Made out of almost any material, jewelry is basically adorned to highlight nearly any body part. Be it the traditional jewelry or the latest ones which are increasingly in demand, i.e. the costume & imitation jewelery. There is no dearth when it comes to accentuating the beauty with varied imaginative & stunningly designed jewelry items.

When it comes to defining the materials used for shaping jewelry items, then anything under the roof of the sky can be transformed into breathtaking ornamental items. Such as, metals such as gold & silver, copper, ivory, woods, precious gemstones as diamonds & pearls, beads, shells, leather, plastic, glass, bone & others. They help define varied intricately designed shapes adding on to the beauty of these adorning items.

Jewelry are perfect for any occasion, be it a formal or ceremonial occasion or casual ones. They do not need any particularly specified occasion for exhibiting the beauty. Wide array of jewelry items which can beautify the varied body parts are :

• Bangles
• Anklets
• Nose pins
• Hair pins
• Necklaces
• Rings
• Earrings
• Armlets
• Bracelets
• Toe Rings

With growing demand of Art jewelry, very much in vogue, artisans are coming up with innovative ideas & designs to give an ethereal look to a persona easily available & quite cost effective. Nowadays, new variations are hitting the showrooms such as wire sculpture (wrap) jewelry which are being created using anything from base metal wire with rock tumbled stone to precious metals and precious gemstones.

Jewelry designs can vary from vintage and antique designs to ethnic designs to very flashy and chunky jewelry. Often stone studded, engraved, electroplated and designed using various colors for creating an eye catching effect, these jewelry items are designed for different occasions including bridal jewelry, formal and informal jewelry. The intricate motifs still holds the same charm as they did centuries ago simply because of their absorbing styles.