Thinking of buying your wedding band, or a bracelet for someone you love? Wondering what questions to ask the jeweler so you can find out more about the value of what you’re buying?


We know: 5 Facts Before You Buy Gold Jewelry

HERE ARE 6 FACTS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY GOLD JEWELRY:

1. What does 24 karat (24K) gold mean?

Something that is entirely composed of gold is 24 karat gold. However, 24 karat gold is soft, so most gold jewelry is mixed throughout with other metals so that it is harder and will last longer.

2. What does it mean when something is not 24 karat gold?

It means the gold has been mixed with other metals. The number of karats tells you the ratio of the mixture. For example, 14 karat gold is made from 14 parts of gold, mixed with 10 parts of another metal base. The more gold in the jewelry, the higher the number of karats.

3. Are jewelers required to mark a piece of jewelry with the number of karats contained in it?

No, but you should definitely asked the jeweler the number of karats in the ring or other jewelry you want to buy to help you assess its value.

4. Does solid gold mean the item is pure gold?

No. It simply means the jewelry is not hollow inside. It has nothing to do with the number of karats in the gold.

5. What does gold plated mean?

Gold plated means items where the gold has been plated to a base metal. The gold eventually wears off, depending on the thickness of the gold and how much the item is worn.

6. What do the terms gold-filled, gold overlay, and rolled gold plate mean?

They mean the jewelry has a layer of at least 10 karat gold that is mechanically bonded to a base metal.


So, as you shop, ask questions. It pays to know what you’re getting!



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