K18 gold, also referred to as 18-karat gold, is made from 75% pure gold mixed with 25% alloy metals. The composition of these alloys determines the colour and properties of the gold, ranging from classic yellow to striking red and green hues. For jewellery enthusiasts, understanding K18 gold colours is essential for selecting the right piece, designing with creativity, or ensuring proper care and maintenance.
Alloy
A mixture of two or more metals to create a material with specific properties. In K18 gold, alloys contribute to colour, strength, and malleability.
Deoxidizer
A material, such as zinc, added to gold alloys to reduce oxidation during the melting and casting process, ensuring a clean and smooth finish.
Fine Gold (Pure Gold)
Gold in its purest form, consisting of 99.9% gold. Fine gold is soft and requires alloying for durability in jewellery.
K18 (18 Karat)
An alloy containing 75% pure gold and 25% other metals. It balances gold’s richness with the strength needed for practical use.
K18 Green Gold
A unique gold colour achieved by mixing 75% pure gold with over 70% silver and less than 30% copper in the alloy mix. Its subtle greenish hue is ideal for creative and artistic jewellery designs.
K18 Pink Gold (Rose Gold)
A pinkish gold alloy made by blending pure gold with approximately 3% palladium, a small amount of zinc, and a mix of silver and copper in an 8:2 ratio. Popular in Japan, pink gold is prized for its romantic hue but is more brittle, requiring careful handling during repairs.
K18 Red Gold
A reddish gold created by using over 70% copper and less than 30% silver in the alloy mix. Its vibrant, warm tone is particularly striking in vintage or bold jewellery pieces.
K18 White Gold
A gold alloy consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% palladium. Developed as a platinum substitute after World War I, it is often plated with rhodium for enhanced whiteness and shine.
K18 Yellow Gold
A classic gold colour achieved by mixing equal parts of silver and copper in the alloy. Known as gold 750 in Europe, its bright and warm tone makes it timeless and versatile.
Malleability
The ability of gold to be shaped or stretched without breaking. K18 gold retains good malleability while being harder than pure gold.
Palladium
A precious metal used in K18 white gold and some pink gold alloys to enhance strength and adjust colour. Palladium belongs to the platinum group of metals.
Rhodium Plating
A thin coating of rhodium applied to K18 white gold to give it a brilliant white finish and protect it from scratches.
Tarnish Resistance
The ability of a gold alloy to resist discoloration or dulling. K18 gold generally has higher tarnish resistance compared to lower-karat gold.
Workability
Refers to how easily a gold alloy can be manipulated during jewellery making. Alloys with higher copper content, such as red gold, may be harder but less ductile.
