Yellow gold is a gold alloy (mixture) with a natural yellow hue. Yellow gold is achieved by combining pure gold with other metals like copper and zinc. It is one of the most popular types of gold used in jewelry and is celebrated for its classic appearance and timeless appeal.
Understanding Pure Gold and Alloys
Pure gold is 100% gold with no added metals.
Alloys are mixtures of pure gold with other metals (i.e. silver, copper, nickel, palladium) that are created in order to improve strength, durability and alter the color of the metal.
The Role of Copper and Silver
Yellow gold’s color is influenced by mixing in copper for warmth and silver for brightness. This combination of alloy metals results in yellow gold’s classic, warm hue.
Copper and silver also add strength and durability to the gold alloy. The amount of copper used increases the hardness and durability of the yellow gold. Silver improves the malleability of the gold.
Types of Yellow Gold
Yellow gold comes in various forms that are primarily distinguished by purity levels which are measured in karats. The various karat levels come from the alloy percentages and have unique characteristics which influence the gold’s color, durability and cost.
Karat Distinctions:
- 24K = Pure Gold
- 18K = 75% Gold & 25% Alloy
- 14K = 58.3% Gold & 41.7% Alloy
Color and Durability Variations
The color and durability of yellow gold depends on its purity (karat) and the metals used in the alloy. The higher the percentage of pure gold is, the more vibrant and rich the yellow color will be.
As the percentage of pure gold decreases, the color will become softer and more pale.
However, gold’s durability is inversely related to its purity and percentage of pure gold. This means that a lower-karat yellow gold is actually harder and more resilient than higher-karat gold!
Why Choose Yellow Gold?
Yellow gold has been a timeless and popular choice in gold jewelry for centuries. Some good reasons to choose yellow gold:
- It’s classic, versatile yet unique.
- Gold holds its value making it a good investment.
- It’s easy to maintain.
Yellow Gold vs. White Gold vs. Rose Gold
Choosing between yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold depends on personal style, durability, and maintenance preferences.
Yellow Gold
- Classic and rich in hue
- Requires less maintenance (not rhodium-coated)
- Hypoallergenic, especially in higher-karat forms
- Timeless and luxurious
White Gold
- Created by mixing pure gold with nickel, palladium, and zinc
- Often rhodium-coated for extra brightness and durability
- Requires regular re-plating to maintain its bright white appearance
- A popular choice for gold engagement rings and fine jewelry
Rose Gold
- A mix of gold, copper, and silver, giving it a romantic pink hue
- More durable than yellow gold due to its copper content
- Complements warm and cool skin tones alike
- Trendy yet timeless
Aesthetic Appeal and Skin Tone Compatibility
Yellow gold has a warm, luxurious glow that enhances various jewelry designs and settings. Its compatibility with different skin tones is influenced by personal preference. However, some believe that yellow gold is universally flattering for different reasons.
For example, yellow gold is said to look most harmonious on people with warm and neutral undertones (possibly due to the natural warmth of the yellow gold). Others recommend yellow gold for those with cool tones because the contrast between the warm gold and the cool undertones makes a bold statement.
Popularity in Modern and Traditional Jewelry
Yellow gold remains a staple in both modern and traditional jewelry because of its long lasting value, timeless appeal and adaptability across eras and styles. Its significance and usage have evolved over time, blending cultural traditions with contemporary trends.
Cons of Yellow Gold
- Yellow gold can be very expensive in higher karat forms.
- Higher- karat yellow gold is actually softer than lower-karat gold due to its purity therefore making it more prone to scratches, dents and bending.
- Because yellow gold is dense, it can sometimes feel heavy.
Color Impact on Gemstones
The color of yellow gold can significantly enhance or alter the appearance of gemstones.
Yellow gold enhances the color of warm-toned gemstones (i.e. rubies, garnets and citrines) which creates a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic.
While yellow gold isn't traditionally associated with cool-toned gemstones (i.e. emeralds, sapphires and aquamarines), the contrast between the gold and stones is striking which draws more attention to the stone.
Neutral-colored gemstones (i.e. diamonds, pearls and moonstone) complement yellow gold, resulting in a balanced, elegant look.
Yellow Gold Jewelry Care Tips
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Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone. These substances can weaken the metal. Similarly, avoid abrasive cleaners such as powdered cleaners and toothpaste, as they can erode the gold and alter the color.
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Use only soft brushes as stiff-bristled or abrasive cleaning tools can scratch the gold.
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Be mindful of thick lotions and creams. These can leave a residue on your gold, making it appear dirty and potentially leading to discoloration.
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Frequent cleaning using a solution of warm water with a basic dish soap is all that’s needed for cleaning yellow gold jewelry.
Fun fact: almost every DRD piece comes in a 14K yellow gold option. We love exploring metal options with our clients! Schedule an appointment to meet at our showroom in New York or Chicago (or virtually) and we can try on and discuss yellow gold together! We are also all about mixing metal – just because you go with a yellow gold piece today, doesn’t mean that your other colors of gold will be sidelined – they’ll look fabulous worn together! Hopefully you’re feeling well informed about yellow gold and will continue your journey of following the endless glow as you build your jewelry collection!
