Lab-Grown Diamonds: Innovation, Beauty, and Sustainable Luxury

About Platinum

Platinum is a timeless favorite for engagement rings and wedding bands, known for its natural white sheen that never fades or changes color. This exceptional metal enhances the sparkle and brilliance of diamonds, making it a perfect choice for celebrating enduring love. With its lasting beauty and unparalleled durability, platinum stands as the ultimate symbol of true and everlasting commitment.

Density and Durability

Renowned for its strength, platinum's density makes it one of the most secure settings for diamonds and precious gemstones. Our platinum rings are crafted with platinum prongs to provide maximum protection for loose diamonds. Unlike other metals, platinum's natural whiteness means it doesn’t require re-plating, maintaining its brilliance over time with minimal effort.

Platinum’s Patina

Though incredibly strong, platinum can develop fine scratches over time, creating a soft patina of wear that many find uniquely beautiful. This natural patina gives the metal character and charm, but restoring its original shine is simple. A quick buff with a soft cloth will bring back its reflective luster effortlessly.

Purity of Platinum

Platinum is one of the rarest metals, 30 times scarcer than gold. Our platinum jewelry is crafted from 95% pure platinum (combined with iridium, palladium, or ruthenium for added strength), ensuring high quality and hypoallergenic properties. Its purity makes it a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Pro Tips for Platinum

When choosing a diamond setting, consider a platinum head for its unmatched strength and durability. Platinum's cool white hue not only complements the diamond’s brilliance but also ensures the gem remains securely in place for a lifetime.

Caring for Platinum

Maintaining platinum’s luster is effortless. Simply soak it in warm, soapy water and gently clean with a soft-bristled brush. This easy care routine keeps your platinum jewelry shining like new, ensuring its elegance lasts for generations.

What Is Gold?

Gold has captivated humanity for centuries, symbolizing beauty, status, and wealth. From the lavish gold treasures adorning Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun in 1323 BC to the elegant designs embraced by today’s trendsetters, gold’s allure remains timeless. Ancient civilizations worldwide used this precious metal to craft jewelry, monuments, and artifacts that conveyed power and prosperity. Today, gold continues to be a sought-after choice for engagement rings, necklaces, chains, earrings, and other exquisite pieces of fine jewelry, seamlessly blending tradition with modern style.

Brief Gold History

Gold has been a cherished symbol of wealth and artistry for millennia, deeply woven into the fabric of human history. This precious metal has adorned civilizations from the Incas to the Ancient Egyptians, the Sumerians in Mesopotamia—who crafted gold earrings as early as 2600-2500 BC—and the Ancient Greeks. Even more remarkable is the discovery of Bulgarian gold jewelry dating back to 4,600 BC, showcasing gold’s enduring appeal across cultures and eras.

Throughout history, gold has been used not only for jewelry but also for statues, amulets, currency, and other hallmarks of civilization. Its significance transcends adornment, representing power and prosperity in countless forms.

In modern history, gold’s influence has continued unabated. The California Gold Rush of the mid-1800s, sparked by James W. Marshall’s discovery, underscored its magnetic allure. Gold remains a dominant choice in jewelry, celebrated for its beauty and versatility.

Beyond aesthetics, gold’s rarity and enduring value make it a cornerstone of financial investment. Its worth has been so respected that nations like Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Japan, Great Britain, and the United States once anchored their economies to the gold standard, tying currency value directly to gold reserves. While this system is no longer in use, it underscores gold’s historical financial importance.

Today, gold continues to captivate both investors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. As a financial asset, its value fluctuates based on weight and market demand, making it a reliable investment. As a jewelry material, 14K and 18K gold remain prized for their durability, elegance, and timeless appeal, embodying centuries of tradition and modern sophistication.

Gold Jewelry Purity

Gold’s exceptional malleability makes it a preferred material for crafting intricate and detailed designs. Its natural resistance to rust, tarnish, and corrosion further enhances its appeal. However, pure gold is too soft to withstand the rigors of daily wear. To address this, it is alloyed with metals like silver, copper, and a touch of zinc, resulting in a stronger, more durable material that can endure for generations.

The purity of gold in jewelry is measured in karats, represented by a number followed by “k.” Karatage is expressed in 24ths, with 24k being pure gold. While 24k gold boasts a strikingly rich and luxurious yellow hue, its softness makes it impractical for everyday use. More durable options, such as 14k and 18k gold, offer an ideal balance of beauty and strength, making them perfect for fine jewelry.

If you’re curious about your jewelry’s purity, look for a small hallmark stamped on the piece, such as a number followed by “k.” This hallmark indicates the karatage and confirms the authenticity of the gold.

At our store, we offer yellow, white, and rose gold jewelry in both 14k and 18k. These pieces are crafted from solid gold, not gold-plated base metals, ensuring their quality and suitability for everyday wear. Whether you prefer the warm glow of yellow gold, the modern elegance of white gold, or the romantic charm of rose gold, our 14k and 18k options provide timeless beauty and durability.

Gold Hallmarks

Gold jewelry often bears a hallmark, a small yet significant stamp that conveys vital details about the piece. This hallmark serves as a certification of the gold's purity, often specifying the percentage of pure gold it contains. In some cases, the hallmark also includes additional information, such as the date of completion and the country of origin.

In compliance with federal law, all gold jewelry must feature a maker's mark or a registered trademark, further ensuring authenticity and traceability. Genuine gold pieces are typically stamped with a number followed by the letter “k,” representing the karatage and the gold's fineness. For example, a “14k” stamp indicates that the piece is composed of 58.3% pure gold.

It’s essential to note the meaning of other markings, such as "GF" (gold-filled) or "KP" (karat plumb). These symbols signify that the jewelry is not solid gold but rather gold-plated or filled, containing a base metal beneath a layer of gold. Understanding these stamps helps buyers make informed decisions and ensures confidence in the authenticity and quality of their gold jewelry.

Carats Concierge Gold

Our collection features exquisite jewelry crafted in both 18k and 14k gold, offering a balance of luxury, durability, and timeless appeal.

Our 18k gold consists of 75% pure gold alloyed with other metals, creating a rich, lustrous finish that is durable enough for everyday wear. For those seeking a balance of value and resilience, our 14k gold contains 58.3% pure gold, enhanced with additional metals to ensure long-lasting strength.

In the U.S., gold jewelry must meet a minimum standard of 10k, an alloy comprising 41.7% pure gold. However, we exclusively offer 14k and 18k gold for their superior quality and enduring beauty. For our European customers, gold karat scales may differ: "585" corresponds to our 14k gold, while "750" is equivalent to our 18k gold. No matter the karat or region, our gold pieces embody elegance and craftsmanship designed to last a lifetime.

The Color Of Gold

While pure gold is naturally yellow, the color of gold jewelry is often influenced by the alloys mixed with it. These alloys not only enhance the strength and durability of gold but also create a stunning variety of hues. The final color of gold jewelry depends on several factors, including:

The type of metal alloys used

The percentage of each alloy

The specific metals added, which can include zinc, copper, nickel, iron, cadmium, aluminum, silver, platinum, and palladium

We proudly offer fine gold jewelry in three captivating shades: yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Each type is uniquely beautiful and highly valued for its aesthetic charm and lasting durability, ensuring there's a perfect choice to suit every style.

What Is Yellow Gold? 

Yellow gold jewelry owes its radiant shine to a blend of pure gold, silver, copper, and a trace of zinc. The exact proportions of these metals may vary, but the foundation is consistent: 75% pure gold for 18k yellow gold and 58.3% pure gold for 14k yellow gold. This composition creates a classic, warm glow that beautifully complements diamonds with lower color grades, enhancing their natural charm despite any faint yellow tint.

When choosing between 14k and 18k yellow gold, it's important to consider durability and hardness. 18k yellow gold, with its higher gold content, is softer and more susceptible to scratches, making it better suited for those who prefer its richer hue and don’t mind extra care. 14k yellow gold, being harder and more durable, is a practical choice for everyday wear, offering a balance of beauty and resilience.

Beloved for centuries, yellow gold remains a timeless and sought-after choice, continuing to captivate with its enduring elegance and versatility.

What Is White Gold? 

White gold begins as yellow gold but transforms into its signature silvery-white hue through a specialized alloying and plating process. Pure gold is combined with metals like nickel, palladium, and silver, along with other whitening alloys, to achieve a lighter base tone. To enhance its brilliant white appearance, white gold is plated with rhodium, a rare and highly reflective metal.

Over time, the rhodium plating may wear, revealing a subtle champagne-colored tint. This natural aging process is a sign that your white gold jewelry could benefit from replating to restore its original brightness. While rhodium plating is durable, occasional maintenance ensures your piece continues to look its best. For your convenience, we offer replating services through our local jewelry stores.

White gold is a popular and versatile choice, celebrated as an affordable alternative to platinum. Its sleek, modern look is highly sought after today and was also a fashionable option for rings during the 1920s Art Deco era. Whether you're drawn to vintage-inspired engagement rings or contemporary designs, white gold is a timeless and stylish option. Importantly, white gold is real gold, differentiated only by its unique alloying and finishing process compared to yellow or rose gold.

What Is Rose Gold? 

Rose gold is a beloved choice in high-quality jewelry, celebrated for its unique warmth and versatility. Used in rings, necklaces, earrings, and more, rose gold—often called pink gold—is real gold alloyed with copper to achieve its signature blush tone. The proportion of copper in the alloy determines the intensity of the rose hue; a higher copper content results in a deeper, richer color.

Rose gold contains the same amount of pure gold as its yellow and white counterparts. What sets it apart is the specific alloy mix. While yellow and white gold rely on metals like zinc or nickel, rose gold derives its distinctive pink tones primarily from copper. This composition makes it both visually stunning and structurally robust.

Its romantic appeal and modern-vintage charm have made rose gold a popular choice for engagement rings in recent years. The selection between 14k and 18k rose gold often depends on personal preference, with 18k offering a softer, more delicate pink, and 14k providing a slightly deeper and more durable hue.

One of the practical advantages of rose gold is its low-maintenance nature. Unlike white gold, which requires periodic rhodium replating, rose gold's pink tones are inherent to its alloy composition, ensuring they remain vivid with basic care over time.

Historically, rose gold enjoyed a surge in popularity during the 1920s Art Deco era and has recently experienced a resurgence in modern jewelry trends. For a truly romantic and timeless statement, pair rose gold with a heart-shaped diamond ring to create a piece that exudes love and elegance. 

What Type Of Gold Does Carats Concierge Use For Ring Heads? 

For yellow gold and rose gold settings, we incorporate platinum ring heads to securely hold center diamonds. Platinum is chosen for its exceptional strength and durability, ensuring your diamond remains securely in place while complementing the warmth of yellow or rose gold bands.

In contrast, all designs in 14k white gold use 14k white gold ring heads, which provide the necessary strength and longevity to keep the center stone safe. 14k white gold is a particularly popular choice among our customers, offering a sleek, modern appearance similar to that of platinum but at a more accessible price point. This combination of style, durability, and affordability makes 14k white gold a favorite for those seeking timeless elegance.

How Is The Price Of Gold Determined? 

The price of gold changes daily, with fluctuations in the market determining the current value per ounce. As a publicly traded commodity, gold’s price is influenced by numerous external factors, such as global economic conditions, currency values, and investor sentiment. Consequently, the cost of gold jewelry is primarily determined by three key factors:

Purity and Weight: The karat (purity level) and the physical weight of the gold significantly influence the price. Higher karat gold, such as 18k or 24k, contains a greater proportion of pure gold, increasing its value.

Market Value: The current market price of gold, often referred to as the "spot price," directly impacts the overall cost of gold jewelry.

Craftsmanship and Design: The intricacy, artistry, and craftsmanship involved in creating a piece also contribute to its price. Elaborate designs or handcrafted items often carry a premium.

These combined factors make gold jewelry not only a treasured accessory but also a valuable investment.

Gold Karat Chart 

Gold purity is expressed in karats, with each level representing a specific percentage of pure gold. Here's a quick guide to gold karats and their characteristics:

24 Karat (24k): 100% gold. Pure gold with a rich, vibrant yellow color, but too soft for most fine jewelry. It is highly valued in certain cultures for its purity and brilliance.

22 Karat (22k): 91.7% gold. This gold alloy is also considered too soft for intricate fine jewelry, but it remains popular in cultural and ceremonial jewelry in various regions.

18 Karat (18k): 75.0% gold. Known for its luxurious appeal, 18k gold strikes a balance between purity and durability, making it a premium choice for fine jewelry.

14 Karat (14k): 58.3% gold. A popular choice for fine jewelry due to its excellent balance of wearability, strength, and affordability.

10 Karat (10k): 41.7% gold. While it is more durable due to its higher alloy content, 10k gold is not available at Carats Concierge as it is considered less refined for fine jewelry.

Each karat level offers unique benefits, ensuring there's a gold purity option suited to your style, needs, and budget.

14k Vs 18k Gold, What Karat Is Best?

The choice between 14k and 18k gold often comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and budget. Both options are stunning and durable, making them excellent choices for fine jewelry. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

14k Gold

Durability and Value: Offers a great balance of strength and affordability due to its higher alloy content.

Popularity: Our top-selling option, loved for its practicality and timeless appeal.

Appearance: In yellow gold, it has a slightly subtler yellow hue compared to 18k gold.

18k Gold

Luxury and Purity: A more opulent choice with a higher percentage of pure gold, giving it a luxurious allure.

Softness: Slightly softer and more prone to scratches than 14k gold, but still suitable for everyday wear.

Appearance: In yellow gold, it offers a richer and deeper yellow tone compared to 14k gold.

14k and 18k Gold Similarities

Everyday Wear: Both are durable enough for frequent use and hold their value well.

Visual Parity in White and Rose Gold: In white and rose gold styles, the visual differences in purity are minimal, as color is influenced more by the alloy mix than the gold content.

Whether you prefer the balance of 14k gold or the indulgence of 18k gold, both options provide timeless beauty and enduring quality.

Does Gold Tarnish? 

Yes, gold jewelry can tarnish, though the extent depends on its karat and care. Here's what you should know to keep your gold looking radiant:

Higher Karat Gold (14k and above): These pieces are more resistant to tarnish and tend to retain their shine and rich color with proper care.

Lower Karat Gold (10k and below): Due to the higher percentage of alloy metals, these pieces are more prone to tarnishing over time.

Caring for Your Gold Jewelry

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Exposure to corrosive chemicals, chlorine, lotions, soaps, and household cleaners can cause tarnish and discoloration.

Limit Exposure During Activities: Remove your gold jewelry before cooking, cleaning, showering, swimming, or engaging in activities that could expose it to damaging substances.

Regular Cleaning: Tarnished gold can often be restored to its original shine with professional jewelry cleaning or gentle at-home care using non-abrasive products.

By following these care tips, you can preserve the beauty and brilliance of your gold jewelry for years to come.

Gold Jewelry Buying Tips 

Searching for solid gold jewelry? Ensure you’re making a wise investment by following these tips:

Shop at Trusted Jewelers: Always buy from reputable jewelers with a proven track record of quality and authenticity.

Check for Stamps: Look for hallmarks or fineness stamps on the piece to confirm its gold content and karat. These marks indicate the purity of the gold and ensure you’re getting genuine solid gold.

Choose Wisely: Select the gold color (yellow, white, or rose) and karat (14k, 18k, etc.) that align with your style preferences and budget.

For durable, stylish, and high-quality gold jewelry, make sure your purchase comes from a source you trust, ensuring both value and longevity.

Gold Jewelry Care Tips

 Prolonged exposure to chlorine and other harsh chemicals in cleaning products can damage gold jewelry over time. To maintain its beauty and durability:

Avoid Harsh Environments: Remove your jewelry before gardening, cleaning, or engaging in activities that may cause abrasions or exposure to chemicals.

Gentle Cleaning: Clean gold jewelry with a solution of warm water and detergent-free soap, using a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dirt and grime.

Polish for Shine: Use a specialized jewelry polishing cloth or a professional jewelry cleaning solution to restore its luster.

Proper Storage: Store your gold pieces in soft cloth bags or their original boxes to prevent scratches and maintain their shine when not in use.

With proper care, your gold jewelry can retain its brilliance for years to come.

Gold Facts

Fool’s Gold

Pyrite, often mistaken for gold due to its similar color, is nicknamed "Fool’s Gold." Unlike gold, pyrite is brittle and will break rather than bend when pressure is applied.

King Tut's Golden Tomb

Ancient Egyptians revered gold, using it to adorn their pyramids and burial sites. Tutankhamun’s tomb alone contained a sarcophagus with an innermost chamber weighing an astonishing 240 pounds of solid gold, not to mention the golden walls of the burial chamber.

Global Fineness Trends

Gold karat preferences vary worldwide. While 14k and 18k gold are popular in many countries, other regions, such as South Asia, favor higher-karat gold jewelry for its richer hue and cultural significance.

Seeing Gold in Space

NASA values gold for its practical applications in space exploration. Satellites are equipped with gold-coated sheets to protect against solar heat, while astronaut helmets feature visors coated in gold to shield against solar radiation. Gold also prevents corrosion in satellite electronics, ensuring clear communication between components.

The Gold So Far

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that 244,000 metric tons of gold have been discovered globally. Significant deposits have been found in China, Australia, and South Africa, which remain some of the largest gold-producing regions.

Gold Flakes on Food

Gold isn’t just for wearing—it’s edible, too! Because they are biologically inert, food-grade gold flakes are used in luxury dining, adding an opulent touch to gourmet dishes and desserts.

What is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver is the most popular silver alloy used in jewelry, prized for its beauty, durability, and versatility. To qualify as sterling silver, the alloy must contain at least 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically composed of copper. Copper has proven to be silver's ideal companion through centuries of refinement, enhancing its strength without compromising its brilliant, lustrous color. Commonly marked as "925," sterling silver is a premium material that creates timeless and elegant jewelry pieces suitable for any occasion.

History & Hallmarks

The use of sterling silver for crafting jewelry and currency dates back centuries, with its origins tracing to around the 12th century. During this time, silver coins were called "Easterlings," particularly in cattle markets, a name eventually shortened to "Sterling." This term now signifies the highest standard of silver quality. Often referred to as "the metal of the moon" due to its luminous milky-white and grayish hues, sterling silver remains a timeless choice in fine craftsmanship.

Sterling silver is commonly stamped with a hallmark, a mark that certifies the purity of the silver content and may also include details like the date of completion and country of origin. Under federal law, sterling silver pieces must also carry a maker's mark or registered trademark to ensure authenticity. Acceptable quality marks for sterling silver include:

Sterling

Sterling Silver

Ster

0.925

This attention to detail and quality assurance has helped sterling silver maintain its reputation as a symbol of elegance and enduring value.

Common Uses For Sterling Silver In Jewelry

Sterling Silver Necklaces

Sterling silver's lightweight nature and exceptional durability make it a favorite alloy among craftspeople. Its malleability allows for intricate designs, while its strength ensures long-lasting beauty. These qualities have cemented sterling silver’s position as one of the most popular and versatile materials in jewelry making and artisanal creations.

Sterling Silver Earrings

Lightweight and effortlessly comfortable, sterling silver earrings are an excellent choice for any look or occasion. Available in a wide range of styles—including classic studs, elegant dangles, and timeless hoops—sterling silver earrings offer versatility and charm. Many designs are further enhanced with the addition of sparkling gemstones or lustrous pearls, making them a stunning accessory for any outfit.

The Best Way to Care For Sterling Silver Jewelry

With proper care, fine-quality sterling silver jewelry can last a lifetime, maintaining its beauty and luster. To protect your pieces, store them in a soft cloth pouch or a dedicated compartment in your jewelry box to minimize scratches and other potential damage. Avoid exposing your silver jewelry to harsh household chemicals, such as bleach and ammonia, or wearing it while swimming in chlorinated water, as these substances can tarnish and damage the silver. Consistent care ensures your jewelry remains a cherished part of your collection for years to come.

Clean Your Silver Jewelry Regularly

To maintain the brilliance of your sterling silver, it’s essential to prevent and address tarnish buildup. Tarnish occurs naturally when silver reacts with sulfur or hydrogen sulfide in the air, resulting in a dull or darkened appearance. Regular care can keep your silver looking its best.

To clean your silver, use a soft cloth with a polish specially formulated to remove tarnish. Fine silver polishes, solutions, or tarnish-removal cloths can be found at hardware or specialty craft stores. For the best results, remove tarnish as soon as it becomes visible, as early treatment is much easier and more effective.

Interestingly, wearing your silver jewelry regularly is one of the best ways to prevent tarnish buildup, as contact with your skin can help keep it polished. Additionally, consistent cleanings of all your silver pieces will ensure they remain bright, sparkly, and in excellent condition for years to come.

Is The Jewelry at Carats Concierge Made With Sterling Silver?

All our silver jewelry is crafted from the finest sterling silver, ensuring exceptional quality and timeless elegance for any occasion.

Sterling Silver Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between sterling silver and pure silver?

Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper, which enhance its durability. Pure silver, on the other hand, is 99.9% silver. While pure silver is too soft for practical use in jewelry, sterling silver’s alloyed composition makes it ideal for crafting durable and elegant pieces.

Is pure silver good for jewelry?

Pure silver is too soft for most jewelry applications, as it bends and scratches easily. It is better suited for items that require less handling. Sterling silver, with its enhanced strength and durability, is the superior choice for jewelry like necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. Sterling silver jewelry is designed for everyday wear and maintains its luster with regular care.

Is sterling silver valuable?

Yes, sterling silver is a precious metal with significant value. While the small amount of copper in the alloy does not diminish its worth, the value of sterling silver is influenced by factors such as craftsmanship, design intricacy, and the labor involved in creating the piece. Many sterling silver items are also plated with rhodium for added luster and resistance to scratches, further enhancing their appeal.

Does sterling silver tarnish?

Yes, 925 sterling silver can tarnish over time when exposed to chemicals, high humidity, or sulfur in the air. Tarnish appears as a dark layer on the surface of the metal but can be easily removed with a jewelry polishing cloth. For heavily tarnished pieces, professional jewelers can restore the original shine through advanced polishing techniques. Proper storage and regular cleaning can help minimize tarnish and keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best.