Gold Purity
10k, 14k and 18k Gold
Pure gold (24k) is too soft for everyday jewelry, so it is mixed with other metals — an alloy — for strength. The karat tells you how much of the piece is pure gold, out of 24 parts.
| Karat | Pure gold | Stamp | Color | Durability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10k | 41.7% | 10K or 417 | Paler yellow | Hardest, most scratch-resistant | Heavy chains and everyday wear on a budget |
| 14k | 58.3% | 14K or 585 | Warm yellow | Very durable | The all-rounder: chains, rings, pendants |
| 18k | 75% | 18K or 750 | Rich, deep yellow | Softer; shows wear sooner | Rings and pieces worn with care |
| 24k | 99.9% | 24K or 999 | Bright orange-yellow | Very soft | Bullion — rarely used for fine jewelry |
In the US, an item must be at least 10 karat to be sold as gold.
Gold Colors
Yellow, White and Rose Gold
All three colors can be 10k, 14k or 18k. The color comes from the metals mixed with the gold, not from a coating — except for the bright finish on white gold.
Yellow gold
Gold alloyed with silver and copper. The classic warm tone of Cuban links and rope chains, and the easiest color to maintain.
White gold
Gold alloyed with white metals such as palladium or nickel, then plated with rhodium for an icy finish. Makes diamonds look whiter. The rhodium wears over time and can be re-plated.
Rose gold
Gold alloyed with a higher share of copper for a pink tone. Durable, flattering on most skin tones and great for mixing with other metals.
Silver
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), stamped 925. It is a bright, affordable choice for chains, rings and bold pieces.
- Silver naturally tarnishes (darkens) when exposed to air and moisture. A polishing cloth brings it back.
- Many silver pieces are rhodium-plated to resist tarnish and look brighter — that plating wears with time.
- Silver is softer than gold, so very fine silver chains need gentler handling.
- See Jewelry Care for how to clean and store silver.
Finishes
Solid Gold vs Plated, Gold-Filled and Vermeil
Gold on the outside is not the same as gold all the way through. These terms tell you how much gold is in a piece and how long the finish will last.
| Type | What it is | Lifespan of the gold | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid gold | Gold alloy all the way through (10k, 14k or 18k) | Permanent — can be polished and repaired | $$$ |
| Gold vermeil | Sterling silver base with a thicker gold layer (US standard: at least 10k gold, at least 2.5 microns thick) | Years with good care | $$ |
| Gold-filled | A thick layer of gold bonded to a base metal; gold makes up at least 1/20 of the total weight | Many years | $$ |
| Gold-plated | A very thin layer of gold over a base metal such as brass | Months to a few years, depending on wear | $ |
Plating is not a bad thing — it makes big looks affordable. It simply needs gentler care and will eventually need re-plating. Every listing should tell you which one you are buying; if it does not, ask.
Chains
Solid vs Hollow Chains
For chains — especially Cuban links — "solid" and "hollow" describe how each link is made, not the karat.
| Solid links | Hollow links | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy, substantial feel | Much lighter for the same width |
| Durability | Resists dents and kinks | Can dent or crush if knocked or pinched |
| Repairs | Easy to repair and polish | Harder to repair once dented |
| Price | Higher — more gold by weight | Lower for the same look |
Some makers also offer "semi-solid" links — a middle ground in weight and price.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will 10k gold tarnish?
Solid 10k gold does not rust and rarely tarnishes, but because it has more alloy than 14k or 18k it can darken slightly over many years. Regular cleaning keeps it bright.
Why is my white gold turning yellow?
The rhodium plating has worn through, showing the warmer white gold alloy beneath. Re-plating restores the bright finish — it is included in our Lifetime Care program.
Can I shower in solid gold?
Solid gold will not be damaged by water, but soaps and shampoos leave a film that dulls stones. We recommend taking jewelry off to shower and always before swimming.
Which karat is best for a heavy Cuban link?
10k and 14k are the most popular for heavy chains — they are harder and better value by weight. 18k gives the richest color but is softer.