The question of whether gold with a yellow hue is genuine is frequently asked. The metal itself, in its pure form, possesses a characteristic yellow color. However, what is commonly referred to as “yellow gold” in jewelry and other applications is typically an alloy, a mixture of pure gold with other metals. These metals, such as silver and copper, are added to increase the durability and alter the color of the final product. Therefore, while the base is indeed gold, the item is not comprised of 100% pure gold.
The addition of other metals is crucial for several reasons. Pure gold is quite soft and easily damaged, making it impractical for many uses, especially in jewelry that is worn daily. Alloying it with other metals enhances its strength and resistance to scratches and dents. Furthermore, the specific proportions of these metals influence the resulting color and karat of the item. The “karat” designation indicates the proportion of gold present, with 24 karat representing pure gold. Therefore, an 18-karat piece contains 75% gold, while a 14-karat piece contains 58.3% gold. This system allows consumers to understand the gold content and, to some extent, the hardness and value of the material.
