The Gold Guide

The Gold Guide By: Jessica Scroppo Assistant Editor

What is gold jewelry? It may be the shiny bling you notice on your grandma’s ring finger. It may be the dainty heirlooms in your mom’s jewelry box or the chain swinging around your Italian uncle’s neck. Wherever you see it, gold jewelry is both an accessory and an investment.

When looking to buy real gold pieces, it can be overwhelming. Prices, styles and gold purities can be hard to understand. First, let’s touch on the different types of gold jewelry.

Solid Gold: Real gold jewelry has different purities. 10K and 14K are the most popular pieces made in the United States. Usually, these pieces include 40-60% gold mixed with another metal (an alloy). Real gold will never tarnish, is durable and has a decent weight. However, it is often the most expensive option.

Gold-Filled: Gold-filled jewelry is a layer of real gold (10K or 14K) bonded with a filling of metal such as copper, silver or brass. Gold-filled jewelry often lasts for years with proper care. Gold-filled jewelry is less expensive than solid gold and is a great option for those on a budget.

Gold-Plated: Gold-plated jewelry is just that — a thin gold plating on a base metal. What is the difference between plated and filled? Plated jewelry is covered with a thin layer of gold (less than 5% gold) that wears away very easily. These pieces will not last very long and are very cheap, like costume jewelry.

Now that we have the types of gold covered, let’s touch on a few key points that make solid gold jewelry a wise buy.

Value: Real gold holds its value over time. Pieces bought 50 years ago can still be worn or sold today.

Won’t Tarnish: Showering or swimming? Don’t worry. Real gold will NEVER tarnish or turn green. You can wear gold pieces every day, and they will hold up.

Price Per Wear: Although a $100 necklace may seem like a huge investment, the piece will last you FOREVER. A plated necklace bought for $15 will last 1-2 wears. A pure gold necklace will last for hundreds of wears. What should you make sure to look for when buying gold jewelry?

Stamping: Real gold jewelry will ALWAYS have a jewelers stamp and/or a purity marking. The stamp should simply say “10K” or “14K.” If accompanied by a “GP,” that means the piece is gold plated. It is important to pay attention to stamps, as they tell all about how the piece of jewelry was made.

Appearance: Real gold jewelry will not look dull. You will not be able to see any silver or peeling gold color. If this is the case, the piece is not solid gold.

Size: Real gold pieces will have different weights depending on their prices. Thicknesses on necklaces, rings or earrings will usually be dependent on cost. The cheaper the piece, the more likely it is to be thin and light.

A piece of gold jewelry is timeless and holds value. Buying jewelry may not seem like a traditional “investment,” like stocks or bonds. However, gold jewelry pieces are wearable statements that will add a little shine to your life for years to come.

Whether you’re buying new or vintage gold, your jewelry box can always use another piece.