Vernive guide to precious metals
Vernive fine jewellery is meticulously crafted from a variety of precious metals and all are designed to be wearable for a lifetime. When it comes to selecting a new piece of jewellery, do you wonder what precious metal is best for you? Do you want to know the difference between gold, rose gold and platinum?
Learn about precious metals with our in-depth guide to gold and platinum, so you’ll be able to buy jewellery that is both exquisite and functional. We’ll mark out the most hardwearing and exclusive metals, showcase their irresistible qualities and teach you about the different characteristics of each precious metal. Discover why rare platinum is the ideal metal for everyday luxury wear and why rose gold is a stellar choice thanks to its deliciously flattering soft pink hue. We’re here to walk you through the world of precious metals so that you can choose the perfect piece of jewellery every time.
Gold
An elegant and lustrous metal, gold has been used to craft jewellery since Ancient Egyptian times. One of the most popular precious metals, it is loved by designers, celebrities and royalty alike. What makes gold so stunning? As the least reactive of all the precious metals, it doesn’t tarnish or corrode. It’s a symbol of wealth, luxury, love and wisdom and is a versatile metal that possesses hypoallergenic qualities. Hardwearing yet malleable, there are thousands of different ways that designers can shape gold. Vernive gold jewellery encompasses all that is exquisite about this precious metal. Browse our collection of stunning gold jewellery and discover pieces you’ll reach for time and time again.
The colours and karats of gold
Pure gold is extremely soft and, although decadent and glamorous, it would be almost impossible for jewellers to work with and shape. That’s why, in the jewellery world, you’ll see everything mentioned in karats. Karats specify just how much gold is in your gold. The crème de la crème is 24k gold, which is 100% pure gold. But in most cases, other metals, even in small quantities, are added to gold jewellery to give strength and ensure it is durable enough to last forever. Once you know the basics, it’s easy to understand. Gold is measured in karats and one gold karat is roughly 4.1667% of pure gold. In more specific terms, that translates to 1/24th of pure gold.
- 9k Gold
The most durable of all the golds, 9k gold contains 37.5% pure gold and is the favoured choice when setting high-grade diamonds. Mixed with 62.5% of other alloys, it is strong and hardy. All 9k gold jewellery is stamped with a hallmark of 375.
- 14k Gold
14k gold is composed of 58.5% gold and its affordability, rich colour and resistance to wear and tear make it the most popular choice for gold jewellery. With all the advantages of pure gold and all the benefits of other alloys, it is one of the finest options for wedding and engagement rings. Its hallmark is 585.
- 18k Gold
A superlative choice for necklaces and rings, 18k gold is 75% pure gold. Stamped with the 750 hallmark and with a stunning golden sunset shine, 18k gold jewellery has the irresistible appearance of near-pure gold. It’s a magnificent material for that truly luxurious look and with a minimal amount of other alloys mixed in, it's an ideal hypoallergenic choice.
- 22k Gold
Often referred to as Indian gold, 22k gold is comprised of 91.7% pure gold which gives it the richest of appearances. The most expensive of all gold jewellery, it is soft, delicate and decadent. Its hallmark is 917 and it is mainly used to craft pure gold jewellery without any gem settings. 22k gold jewellery offers you high-karat gold with an air of exclusivity.
- 24k Gold
100% gold. Completely pure. 24k gold shines the brightest yellow and is the highest karat of jewellery you can buy. Undiluted and extremely soft, it cannot hold any diamonds or other precious gems. Highly coveted for its rare colour, 24 k gold jewellery is a true investment piece.
White Gold
White gold is created by blending alloys including silver, palladium and nickel with gold to produce a look that is as fresh and luxurious as platinum, albeit with a more reasonable price tag. Vernive white gold jewellery is carefully plated with rhodium to give it that striking silvery white finish. It’s a superb choice for those that prefer cooler tones but still want the heritage and tradition of gold. More valuable than silver and lighter in weight than platinum, diamonds look stunning set in white gold and this precious metal is one of the most popular choices for high-end jewellery that can be worn both every day and for special occasions. Explore our white gold jewellery collections for a chic and contemporary look that exudes elegance. - 14k White Gold
100% gold. Completely pure. 24k gold shines the brightest yellow and is the highest karat of jewellery you can buy. Undiluted and extremely soft, it cannot hold any diamonds or other precious gems. Highly coveted for its rare colour, 24 k gold jewellery is a true investment piece.
Rose Gold
Rose gold is created by blending alloys including silver, palladium and nickel with gold to produce a look that is as fresh and luxurious as platinum, albeit with a more reasonable price tag. Vernive rose gold jewellery is carefully plated with rhodium to give it that striking silvery white finish. It’s a superb choice for those that prefer cooler tones but still want the heritage and tradition of gold. More valuable than silver and lighter in weight than platinum, diamonds look stunning set in rose gold and this precious metal is one of the most popular choices for high-end jewellery that can be worn both every day and for special occasions. Explore our rose gold jewellery collections for a chic and contemporary look that exudes elegance.