14K gold is a very strong and beautiful metal. It is used to make a variety of jewelry. What is this gold? The 14 karat grade means that the alloy consists of 14 parts gold and eight parts metals. Or 58.5% gold. So, as you understand, it would be "585" by the European standard. There are also 10, 15, 20 and 22 carat gold, but the 14 and 18 carat gold alloys are the most popular on the market.
Metal properties
Higher grade gold is soft and can leave scratches on it. It easily takes any shape, which is why there are many unusual types of decorative jewelry. But if it is too soft, it can break quickly. To make it more durable, silver, copper and other metals were added. The properties of the finished jewelry will vary depending on what it is made of.
Additional materials may be used:
-Zinc;
-Nickel;
-Copper;
-Palladium.
Red gold is the most popular. It is distinguished by its high strength. To make it more malleable, silver is added to the composition. If it is necessary to make white jewelry, gold with zinc is used. The use of such a metal in combination with gold reduces the melting temperature.
When nickel is added, the product acquires a white color and magnetic properties. The jewelry will become very strong. When there is copper in the composition, gold can corrode. Platinum is often added to create beautiful and durable jewelry.
Popularity of 14-karat gold
14k yellow gold has gained enormous popularity around the world. The price per gram is moderate. It is used to make elegant rings, the cost of which is relatively small, but it depends directly on the weight of the finished product and the complexity of the work. This is an affordable option for many fashionistas. The strength of the alloy makes it ideal for rings and bracelets. 14-carat is much stronger and harder than 18-carat. It can also be used for other jewelry such as earrings, pendants, brooches, etc. Every girl can afford to buy a piece like this and wear it daily.
What are the other advantages? They are as follows:
-does not darken;
-does not oxidize;
-Suitable for constant wear;
-It has a high degree of plasticity.
Jewelers use different ways to process gold, they create real masterpieces, not limiting themselves by any limits.
If you want to be sure that this is a piece of jewelry with assay 585, you should know how to determine its authenticity. The easiest way is to put a drop of iodine on the inside of your ring. It will darken if the gold is genuine. Adding other materials will not change the color.
How to take care of your jewelry
To wear your 14-carat gold piece for as long as possible, you need to use simple care tips. You shouldn't wash dishes, do cleaning, or expose your jewelry to harmful substances. Gold will cease to shine and lose its pristine look.
Also, you should not spray perfume near jewelry or use decorative cosmetics, which may get on the gold. During storage, make sure that rings and pendants do not come into contact. This can prevent scratches and other damage.
To remove dirt from the rings, do not use products with abrasive particles. The best solution is a solution of soap. You can also purchase products designed for cleaning gold. This way, your jewelry will shine for years to come.