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Gold

Gold has been used in jewelry for centuries because it's rare and doesn't tarnish. Sadly, it's also quite expensive. As an alternative to pure gold rings, consider using gold-filled rings. Gold-filled rings are not the same as gold-plated rings. Gold-plated rings have an extremely thin coating of gold that wears away very quickly. Gold-filled rings are much more durable because the percentage of gold is greater. Typical gold-filled rings are 5% 14k gold by weight and contain a core of brass.

Gold is described by the carat, which is an indication of its purity. One carat (1k) is 1/24 as pure as 24-carat (24k) gold. So 14k gold is approximately 58% gold, 18K gold is 75% gold, and so on. Typical purities include 14k, 18k and 24k. According to the FTC nothing less than 10k (about 42%) can be sold as "gold".

Other than 24k gold, which is extremely soft, there is always one or more additional metals alloyed with gold to improve its hardness and durability. Unfortunately, these additional metals often change the appearance and characteristics of the gold of which it is a part. For example, some gold alloys use a small percentage of copper. Over time, the copper can tarnish, something that wouldn't happen to pure gold. On the other hand, the use of other metals in these alloys can lead to attractive alternatives to yellow gold, such as rose gold.

The residues from lotions, powders, soaps and natural skin oils will gradually dull gold jewelry's luster. The metals used in the gold alloy might also begin to tarnish, further reducing the gold's brightness. To keep your jewelry looking its best, you'll need to clean it periodically. We recommend the following methods to keep your gold looking its best:

Detergent Bath

Use a mild liquid detergent, such as dishwashing detergent, found on your home and prepare a small bowl of warm suds. Brush the pieces with a soft-bristle toothbrush while they are in the bath. Then rinse under warm running water. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not scrub them with abrasives or you will scratch the surface.

The Cold Water Soak

Make a solution out of 50% cold water and 50% household ammonia in a cup. Soak the pieces for 30 minutes. Lift the pieces out of the bath and gently clean them with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Swish in the solution once more and let the jewelry drain on tissue paper.

The Quick-Dip Method

Buy a brand-name liquid jewelry cleaners found in many stores. Cleaning instructions vary depending on the kit, so read the label and follow its instructions.

The Ultrasonic Cleaner

This is a small machine that will clean any piece of jewelry that can be dipped in a liquid in a matter of minutes. There are many varieties of ultrasonic cleaners, but they all consist of a metal cup that you fill with water and detergent. When the machine is turned on, a high-frequency motion creates the cleaning action. Since each machine is slightly different, read the instructions very carefully before use. Unless you have a lot of jewelry, this machine is probably not a good investment for the average jewelry owner. You can take your pieces to most jewelry stores, which will be willing to clean them for you, perhaps for a small fee. Also keep in mind that ultrasonic cleaners can damage set stones and pearls so if you have any doubt about whether or not it is safe to clean your jewelry this way, consult a qualified jeweler.

You should never let your gold jewelry come in contact with chlorine bleach when you are doing household chores because it can damage your jewelry over time by breaking down the copper or nickel that makes up the gold alloy.

When you are not wearing your gold jewelry, it still requires proper storage. We recommend that you keep your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewel case, or a box with compartments or dividers. If you can not separate your jewelry in your jewelry box, wrap each piece individually in tissue paper or place in small plastic pouches. Don't jumble your diamond pieces in a drawer or jewelry case, because diamonds will scratch your other pieces of jewelry, or even scratch each other.

The packing of your gold jewelry for travel should be given care. There are many types of jewelry traveling carryalls on the market. They come in all sizes, shapes and patterns and most have velvet linings inside to attach pins and earrings, and compartments to place your bracelets and necklaces.

To keep your jewelry looking it's best when you arrive, pack a small plastic bottle of prepared jewelry cleaner.