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Gold Jewelry Facts - Facts About Gold - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL Gold Jewelry Facts - Facts About Gold - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL

Gold Jewelry Facts

Understanding the Allure of Gold: Insights from Arezzo Jewelers

Why Isn't All Gold Yellow?

Gold jewelry is both timeless and enchanting, but there's more to it than meets the eye. At Arezzo Jewelers, we often encounter questions about gold's various colors and qualities. Let's demystify some of these aspects for our valued customers.
The short answer is that yes, pure gold is indeed yellow. While pure gold indeed boasts a classic yellow hue, it's too soft for everyday jewelry. To enhance its durability, gold is mixed with other metals. This process, known as alloying, strengthens the gold, making it perfect for your favorite pieces.

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14K Gold Alternating Paperclip Round Links Chain - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL 14K Gold Alternating Paperclip Round Links Chain - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL

The 24-Karat System: A Glimpse into History

Ever wondered why gold purity is measured in 24 parts? This method traces back to a medieval coin called a mark, which weighed 24 carats. Each carat, initially based on the weight of a carob seed, represented the gold content in the alloy. This ancient practice still helps us determine gold's purity today.

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three yellow gold diamond chains - necklaces 14k and 18k - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL

Decoding Gold's Diverse Palette

Gold's color spectrum is as varied as it is fascinating. The secret lies in the unique mix of metals used in the alloy. For instance:

Yellow Gold: A blend of sterling silver, copper, and zinc creates this classic gold color. The exact mix dictates the final shade, from deep, rich tones to lighter hues.

White Gold: Achieved by adding white metals like nickel, palladium, and zinc, white gold often receives a rhodium plating for an extra shine. This addresses its natural, slightly gray tinge.

Rose Gold: This romantic shade emerges from a higher copper content mixed with some silver. Depending on the proportions, you might hear it called red, pink, or rose gold.

Fashion in gold jewelry is cyclical, with all three colors always in style. Yellow gold brings traditional elegance, white gold offers a modern touch, and rose gold, currently in vogue, appeals to those who adore a touch of romance.

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yellow gold simple hoop earrings - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL

Choosing the Right Gold

Considerations for Your Skin and Style

While pure gold is hypoallergenic, alloys may contain metals like nickel or copper, which can irritate sensitive skin. White gold's rhodium plating can minimize such reactions, but may require occasional replating. Aesthetic-wise, white gold complements cooler gem tones and can enhance lower color grade diamonds, whereas yellow gold suits warmer stones and can mask yellowish tints in diamonds.

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Yellow Gold Braided Bracelet - 14k and 18k - Arezzo Jewelers Elmwood Park, IL

The Excellence of Italian Gold Jewelry at Arezzo Jewelers

At Arezzo Jewelers, we take pride in specializing in Italian gold jewelry, renowned worldwide for its unmatched quality and craftsmanship. Italian gold is celebrated for its exceptional purity, often surpassing standard gold purity levels, which contributes to its luxurious feel and lasting brilliance. The artisans in Italy, hailing from regions with centuries-old jewelry-making traditions like Arezzo, Vicenza and Valenza, are masters of their craft. They combine innovative techniques with age-old skills to create pieces that are not only stunning but also embody a rich cultural heritage. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each piece is a work of art, reflecting both elegance and the pinnacle of craftsmanship. When you choose Italian gold from Arezzo Jewelers, you're not just buying jewelry; you're investing in a legacy of unparalleled quality and beauty that is treasured across generations.

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