Gold

Jewelry--Gifts and Glamour

Gold Jewelry is Always in Fashion and not Trendy

Gold jewelry has always been associated with wealth and power, giving the wearer a confident and powerful demeanor. Yellow gold has always been in great demand; however, the fashion industry has also influenced the popularity of white gold and rose gold.

Both men and women enjoy wearing gold chains. In the Middle Ages in royal courts, gold chains were used to reward people for loyal service. Chains come in many different styles with some being very fine and delicate and others very bold and durable. Both make a very definite fashion statement. The most popular styles are Snake, Rope, Figaro, Wheat design, Venetian Link, Cuban link, Mariner, Curb and Box Chain. Nevertheless, there will always be new styles and designs continuously created by artisans around the world.

Sometimes this abundance in styles makes it hard to make a decision. Figaro, mariner, or curb chains are classic pieces with a repeat pattern. Figaro has a long link that connects to three short links that is romantic with subtle class. A rope chain I exudes the height of sophistication. It's a perfect choice if you want the look of intelligence and mystery.

Some of the classic designs and many of the new innovations originate in Italy and are primarily manufactured in Italy. 18K gold is manufactured in Italy and is one of its countries of origin. When shopping for gold jewelry, please pay attention to the quality mark which is stamped on it.

Pure gold is 24 karats and it is available in a strong orange yellow color. In general, 14K and 18K gold chains are both readily available with 14 K the most common in the U.S. 18k gold contains about 75% of gold and 25% of other metals, while 14k gold contains 58.3% gold. They look very similar with 18K gold having a more yellow tone than does 14K. Both are not damaged easily and can be worn on a daily basis.

In the Middle East, gold jewelry has to be at least 18k and not lower. Most common marks are 18k, 22k and pure, or 24k gold. Such jewelry mostly produced in Thailand, China or India. 23k and 24k are quite normal there. Chains made in Thailand are very distinct and sophisticated with their Asian designs.

Be careful when you are shopping for gold to make sure that it is gold and not gold plated. Many pieces of jewelry are gold plated or gold layered and not 14K or 18K gold. Costume jewelry is frequently gold plated and with the current manufacturing techniques can look as good as the real thing. Just be sure that you are getting what you want and not fake. Not all that glitters is gold.