Yellow gold’s characteristic hue arises from a combination of pure gold alloyed with other metals. Typically, this mixture includes gold itself, along with silver and copper. The precise proportions of these metals influence both the color and the karat of the final product. For example, 18 karat yellow gold contains 75% pure gold, with the remaining 25% comprised of silver and copper.
The inclusion of these additional metals serves several important purposes. Pure gold, being quite soft, is not durable enough for everyday wear in jewelry. Alloying it with silver and copper strengthens the metal, making it more resistant to scratches and dents. Furthermore, the specific ratio of silver to copper affects the depth and warmth of the yellow color, allowing for subtle variations in shade. Historically, the appeal of this precious metal has been driven by its aesthetic qualities, its inherent value, and its resistance to corrosion.