Gold is a precious metal with an unlimited shelf life and high quality. For many centuries, this alloy has adequately maintained its price and has not lost popularity. Gold is used to make beautiful jewelry and is also a good investment for capital accumulation. It is generally accepted that the higher the purity of gold, the better its quality; in fact, high-grade alloys are not super strong and can become deformed over time. So which gold is better to choose?
What color of gold should I choose?
The color of a precious metal largely depends on the amount of added impurities in its alloy (ligature), since it itself is very soft, and it will not be possible to make jewelry from pure gold. If more silver is added to the alloy, it acquires a lemon tint; if copper, it becomes slightly reddish. Regardless of the color of the gold product, the cost may be the same, since the ligature contains the same amount of precious metal. Regardless of color, it has healing properties:
- improves brain function;
- helps get rid of allergies;
- relieves swelling and inflammation;
- has a beneficial effect on the nervous system;
- has a positive effect on memory and metabolic processes in the body;
- increases immunity and blood pressure.
Shades of gold
No additional procedures are required for treatment, and this makes gold more preferable when compared to other precious metals. The only condition is that you must wear it constantly.
White gold
White gold does not exist in nature; it is created artificially. To give a cool shade, nickel, palladium, platinum or rhodium are added to the alloy, and then the product is bleached. Due to the high costs of producing the alloy, the price of white gold is much higher, and products made from it are classified as elite jewelry. The alloy has special properties: it is strong, ductile, wear-resistant, moisture-resistant, and is not afraid of contact with reagents. The presence of white metal jewelry has always been considered an indicator of high status in society.
Yellow gold
Yellow gold has not lost its popularity over the centuries, as it has a number of advantages. Its reasonable cost makes the metal more accessible and attractive, and it has a long service life. Products made from the yellow alloy do not require the addition of precious stones or coating with antioxidants. It has a bright, saturated color, which gives the products a sunny shine that will not fade for many years. Pairs well with any outfit, other jewelry and skin type.
Red gold
In ancient times, red gold was used for minting coins; today, relatively inexpensive jewelry is made from it. But the cost does not affect the beauty and quality in relation to yellow metal jewelry. Products made from red gold do not lose their shape, shine or tarnish for many years. The alloy is not deformable, has durability, increased strength and healing properties. The strength and flexibility of the metal allows jewelers to create real works of art.
What else should you pay attention to?
If you can't see something, don't be shy and ask the seller for a magnifying glass, it will help you see the details. This is especially true for jewelry with thin, openwork weaving. Of course, it will not be possible to examine all the details, but some significant defects can be seen. And also pay attention to how the seller handles the products, whether he has gloves, and the storage conditions for the jewelry. After choosing a piece of jewelry, inquire about the availability of documents in the store and certificates for jewelry activities.
Choosing a gold chain
Next, look at the product tag, sometimes called a passport. It should contain all the information about this decoration. A properly designed tag contains:
- the company that manufactured the product;
- production address and contact information;
- full name of the jewelry, metal and trade name;
- product weight;
- product sample;
- cost of decoration.
If the product contains inserts of stones or other metal, they are also indicated on the tag. Sometimes you can find information about the size of the product or its length.
It is this information that answers the question of how to choose the right gold. It can also be partially used for silver items. If there are precious stones on the jewelry, do not forget to check them for authenticity and defects. Such checks should be carried out in the store near the display cases to prove inconsistencies in the product.
When checking the quality of the product, do not forget about criteria such as the size of the product, style and how well it suits you. Try the jewelry on yourself, and if you are buying a gift, it is better to find out the size in advance or not break the seal before the jewelry is tried on. In order to look stylish, it is better to choose gold jewelry of the same standard and color.
You should take advantage of these tips so as not only to avoid overpaying for the product, but also to get a durable and beautiful product. If used properly, a quality product will last a long time without repair and will not change its characteristics or design.
Oriental or European gold?
Popular Turkish gold is gradually losing its reputation due to the fact that silver is no longer added to it. And due to the high content of copper in the alloy, the product begins to darken after short-term wear and has poor resistance to atmospheric influences. Turkish jewelers have reduced the price of their products due to the love of Russian tourists for red gold, which has noticeably affected the quality.
In Japan, jewelry is made only from pure gold. Such products are considered family heirlooms, they are worn only on special occasions and passed on by inheritance.
Italian gold is highly valued, as 750-carat metal is used for jewelry, and the products are durable and beautiful. In our country, the most practical and common is 375 and 585 gold, but its quality is not inferior to European metal.
#5: Network
Buy online! A post-pandemic trend is the quite successful entry of the jewelry segment onto the Internet, which seemed like outer space with a bunch of meteor questions. There is nothing to be afraid of: your buyer’s objection “can’t be tried on” is more than met by interested sellers, who expand the “loyalty package” and give the right to try on and possible refusal before paying for the purchase, and also spice up newcomers to online shopping with additional bonuses such as discounts on discounts, special offers by email or a compliment pendant.
How to choose by sample?
There are seven standards in the metric system:
- 375 - contains 37.5% gold and 62.5% impurities of silver and copper. The price of jewelry made from this alloy is much lower, but it tends to darken and stain the skin, as iron sulfide formations appear on the surface.
- 500 - rarely used for making jewelry, contains 50% gold and the same amount of copper and silver impurities.
- 585 - meets European standards, products have an acceptable cost and high wear resistance.
- 750 - made with admixtures of silver and platinum. To achieve a variety of shades, jewelers add additional metals. The ratio of impurities to gold increases the brightness and gives the jewelry the desired color and hardness.
- 958 - Rarely used for jewelry because it is soft and dull in color.
- 999 - products made from gold of this standard are soft and prone to deformation, so it is rarely used for making jewelry. Most often it is used to make ingots and granules.
750 gold is produced by China, and lower quality gold is produced by Türkiye. Italian, Russian and Arab gold is valued.
Gold bars
TOP Russian jewelry brands
The history of gold mining and jewelry production in Russia goes back many centuries. However, historically it turned out that the last century was not the best period for this line of activity. At a time when Western jewelry houses were conquering the market by increasing variety and originality, Soviet products were characterized by a lack of distinctive features and uniformity.
However, everything changed in the 90s of the twentieth century. The modern Russian jewelry industry is gradually acquiring its loyal customers and is trying to adhere to global trends, working for the future. There are several of the most famous and popular Russian brands.
1 – Karatov
The Russian brand Karatov was created on a base in Kostroma. The holding team has almost 2 thousand employees. The company's wholesale network covers major cities in Russia, Europe, the USA, and CIS countries.
gold Karatov
- Included in the TOP 3 best jewelry manufacturers in Russia
- All products come with a factory warranty
- Jewelry is developed according to original designs
Customer rating 4.6.
2 - EPL. Yakut diamonds
– manufacturer of diamond jewelry from the Republic of Sakha. It has its own cutting and jewelry production, a network of retail outlets and an online store.
- The patented FIRING ICE cutting method is used.
- Our own school of jewelers and cutters
- The brand was awarded five times by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation as “The Best Russian Exporter”
Customer rating 4.5.
3 – Sokolov
Just like Almaz-Holding, it has a history of more than 25 years. The brand produces jewelry, watches, and children's collections.
gold Sokolov
- Production
- Stores in Russia and Europe, including Switzerland
- International Quality Standard Certificate
- Eastern European leader in the number of jewelry produced
Customer rating 4.5.
4 – Adamas
Like many other brands, this company was founded in the early 90s of the twentieth century.
- Holds a patent for a unique gold alloy
- Extensive network of retail stores with branches in Eastern Europe and China
- Winner of the “Product of the Year”, “Best Jewelry” and other awards
- Winner of the title of the most popular brand in Runet
Customer rating 4.5.
5 - KYuZ
The Kostroma Jewelry Factory, known to everyone under the abbreviation KYUZ or KOYUZ, has been operating since 1939 - for 80 years now.
gold KYuZ
- Own full production cycle
- Network of branded stores
- Winner of international diplomas and awards
- Part of the Krasnoselsky Jewelryprom association
Customer rating 4.14.
6 - Esthete
The plant began its work almost 30 years ago on the basis of a family workshop. Now it is one of the leaders in the jewelry industry, and its owner is the chairman of the Guild of Russian Jewelers.
gold Esthete
- One of the largest production facilities in Europe
- A network of its own branded stores, partner stores, as well as Russia’s first “Jewelry Street”
- Also produces products under the Gevorkyan brand
Customer rating 3.91.
7 – Bronnitsky jeweler
The company comes from the 90s. The brand is manufactured at its own jewelry factory in the city of Bronnitsy, Moscow region, and at subsidiaries in China. The manufacturer has its own trading house, retail stores, and an online store.
gold Bronnitsky jeweler
- Bronnitsky Jewelry Factory was founded in 1924.
- Products are sold in more than 2000 retail outlets in the Russian Federation and neighboring countries
- Most retail stores operate on a franchise basis
Customer rating 3.6.
8 — Almaz-Holding
This brand has been around for over 25 years. This diversified brand sells not only jewelry, but also silverware.
Diamond-holding jewelry
- Production of Krasnoselsky Yuvelirprom
- About 200 retail stores, including in China
- Exports almost 30% of total products abroad
Customer rating: 3.6.
9 – Moscow Jewelry Factory
One of the most famous and oldest jewelry productions, whose history goes back almost a hundred years.
Moscow Jewelry Factory gold ring with diamonds, R108-105010AQQUDR, size 16.5
gold Moscow jewelry factory
- Own production
- Has a network of branded stores of more than 300
- Winner of professional competitions
- Certified to international quality standards
Customer rating 3.05.
Silver and products made from it are one of the most common types of gifts. If you are planning to buy just such a gift, read The best silver jewelry - TOP 5 manufacturers →
Gold bars
Today, the popularity of investing in gold bullion has grown; it is a reliable way to invest in a volatile economy and also helps to earn money. The bars are manufactured in accordance with the high requirements of the English Bullion Association. There are two types of gold bars:
- Measured. They are sold in Russia and contain 99.9% gold, respectively, the fineness of this metal is 999. The maximum weight of the ingot is 1 kg, but the length, width, and thickness are allowed to vary. A stamp with the number of the manufacturer and a trademark are placed on the surface of the ingot, which indicates authenticity. The ingot is accompanied by a quality certificate.
- Standard. Manufactured under the strictest control and according to international standards. It has the shape of a pyramid, without impurities. The ingot is marked with a number, hallmark and factory mark. The weight of such an ingot is 11–13 kg and is sold to processing enterprises.
There are two methods for making gold bars: casting and stamping. The first, cheaper one, is used for casting large ingots. The second method is expensive and uses it to make ingots up to 0.5 kg.
TOP 2 jewelry online stores
As a bonus, we offer two excellent online stores with jewelry from different brands.
- 585 Gold
- Jewelry from leading Russian and foreign brands
- Optics, watches, products for men
- Bonus system - 1 point = 1 ruble
- Delivery by courier, pickup
- Our assessment
Select jewelry for 585 Gold
- JV Gallery
- Jewelry from budget and premium brands
- Electronic gift certificates
- Loyalty program - discounts from 5 to 30%
- Delivery throughout Russia and the CIS from 2 to 7 days
- Our assessment
Choose jewelry at JV Gallery
585/Gold
The 585/Zolotoy chain of stores has over 900 stores in 240 cities in Russia and the CIS. The company has an online store and pawn shops.
- The assortment includes jewelry and watches from leading Russian and foreign brands
- There is delivery by courier services, pickup from the nearest store
- Payment is made on the website or in cash to the courier
- There is a bonus system - a loyalty card with cashback and payment with accumulated points. 1 point = 1 ruble
JV Gallery
JV Gallery is an online store that brings together brands and designers from Europe, Asia, America, and Russia. The store offers delivery to your home or to a pickup point. Pickup is available from the showroom in Moscow.
- Jewelry from budget and premium brands
- Delivery throughout Russia and the CIS from 2 to 7 days
- Payment in cash, card upon receipt; map on the website
- Loyalty program assigning account status from Bronze to Brilliant with a discount from 5 to 30%
- Electronic gift certificates
Which gold should you not choose?
High-quality gold jewelry has an appropriate mark and, although they cost a decent amount, their reputation has been tested by time, which cannot be said about Turkish gold. Although products from Turkey are marked with a high standard, it does not correspond to reality, since in fact they contain a small percentage of gold. Such jewelry can break, and after a short period of time the top gold layer wears off, and copper usually appears underneath. This gold stains the skin and can cause allergies.
High-quality products undergo external and internal processing, which is confirmed by the relevant information on the tag. Therefore, it is better to buy gold in special jewelry stores, which will save you from purchasing low-quality metal. Often low quality products cause health problems.
Gold jewelry should be smooth, even and polished. If you accidentally drop it on a hard surface, it will make a clear and ringing sound. When choosing gold products, you need to be careful to avoid stress and disappointment later.
Making the right choice
Not everyone knows how to choose jewelry made of precious metals And this is why there is so much disappointment and negative commentary in the gold buying industry. Before buying a piece of jewelry you should understand the following points:
1. Never buy blown or hollow products, as they are also called, as they are not very durable and will very soon turn into scrap, which it will be a shame to then sell at 2 times cheaper, of course, the one who buys it from you will be very pleased.
2. Inflated products are very easy to identify, they are often large in size, which is very nice, they weigh little, and therefore are cheaper, which is exactly what all customers need. My advice is to save some money and buy a good, cast product that will please you for a long time.
Inflated earrings are the only type of jewelry that can be purchased in an inflated version; they will not pull on the earlobes, but you cannot sleep in them
3. If you like a product with white gold, then make sure that it is really a piece of white gold, and not yellow gold coated with a thin layer of rhodium. Of course, rhodium is also a precious metal with good characteristics, but it has one drawback - it is applied to jewelry in a very thin layer, therefore the thin coating of rhodium on yellow gold will soon be erased and your product will not look very nice and your friends will say that It’s time for your jewelry to go into the trash, and that’s a shame, isn’t it?
4. It would also be a good idea to touch and feel with your hands where the stones are set, as they are often poorly processed and will cling to clothing and pull threads out of it. In addition, poor fastening can cause inserts to fall out.
5. Choose durable mounts for everyday jewelry. Rings, bracelets and chains should be stronger than earrings, brooches and pendants, as they are subject to more intense stress and are easier to damage. Also check that the product is well finished on the back and bottom.
If this is so, then the product is well thought out and made by conscientious craftsmen, but if the decoration is rough or has extra solders and holes, and the sample is not clear, then it means it was made hastily, without much effort. To check all these points, a magnifying glass will help you.
6. Make sure the clasp is functioning (if equipped). Ask the salesperson to show you how to fasten and unfasten the lock. Try it yourself a couple of times. If you buy a bracelet, check whether you can fasten and unfasten it on your hand yourself.
7. Ask the seller himself how to choose the right piece of jewelry; by his answer you will understand the professionalism of the employee. Also find out how well the jewelry you have chosen is made. If the seller cannot answer, ask about any deficiencies.
Jewelers who sell well-made pieces are often eager to explain why their settings, settings and finishes are better than the competition. You can judge the craftsmanship by listening to the seller. They need to understand how jewelry is made to help select a good piece.
Determine the quality of stone setting under a magnifying glass
8. Determine if there is enough metal to hold the stone. Use a magnifying glass with 10x magnification. If some prongs (a prong is a leg on a ring, for example, which holds a stone on a product, usually there are 3 or more) are missing that hold the stone, then soon you can be found in a jewelry workshop, as the stone will fall out of your products.
9. If possible, make sure that the edge of the stone adjacent to the base is flat (the groove in the metal that supports the stone). There should be no voids between stones and prongs. Make sure you can see most of the stone. The gem should not be covered with so much metal that it is difficult to see. No more than 1/3 of the stone should be covered.
10. Check for loose stones by shaking or lightly tapping the item with your index finger while holding it near your ear. If the stone rattles or clicks, the product is of poor quality and the stones are poorly secured. You shouldn't buy this. Next, let's talk about the history of alloys.
How to wear women's gold jewelry correctly?
You can’t wear gold and silver together or jewelry is only needed for evening wear - have you heard such statements? It's time to forget them! We tell you how to properly wear gold jewelry every day.
Wear earrings to highlight your facial features
Even minimalist gold earrings can draw attention to your eyes, lips and facial architecture. Choose jewelry taking into account the features of your appearance. For example, drop earrings are suitable for those with a heart-shaped face, and studs or massive triangle earrings are suitable for girls with an oval shape.
Combine gold jewelry with matching colors
Maintain a balance between “cold” and “warm” in your outfit. The palette of the image should be consistent with your gold jewelry. Classic yellow gold looks incredibly stylish in the company of sets of black, white, silver, gold and red.
Wear gold jewelry with pearls with sea-hued items
Natural pearls complement sea colors especially well. From sea wave and rich blue to greenish and muted gray - any shade will “make friends” with pearl products.
Wear gold jewelry with basic mono sets
Be sure to combine black or white monochrome outfits with gold jewelry. Let it be a classic black dress and long earrings or a white pantsuit and a large gold necklace.
Decorate outfits in pastel shades with gold jewelry and stones
Freshen up a neutral spring outfit with gold jewelry and statement gemstones. Choose products to match the color of your outfit. For example, wear earrings with topaz with fashion ensembles in shades of blue, and add a chain with garnet to a soft pink set.
The purchase decision has been made. How to save money?
Before purchasing, be sure to ask sellers about discounts. An active marketing policy is an integral part of the jewelry business, so stores almost constantly hold some kind of promotion. Usually, sellers themselves inform buyers about this without a reminder, but if they haven’t said anything, ask.
If you know exactly which jewelry store you will go to, check out their website and social media pages in advance. Often special discounts are offered to subscribers.
Almost all jewelry chains provide the client with bonus savings or discount cards after the first purchase. Some offer a discount on the first purchase, while others start with the second or with a purchase of a certain amount. Check the conditions with consultants (especially if you are going to purchase several jewelry) - it may be more profitable to first buy an inexpensive item, get a card, and only then buy a second one.
Expensive gold jewelry
Start spring off with a new piece of jewelry! We have selected stylish gold items that will delight you for many seasons. Scroll through and add the appropriate option to your cart.
Gold unicorn ring, Karen Walker
Gold ring with unicorn, Karen Walker, RUB 24,069. to the store
This minimalist gold ring features a unicorn silhouette. If in the new season you want to try on jewelry with animalistic themes, but are afraid of going overboard, this option is just for you.
Gold earrings with pearls, Baggins
Gold earrings with pearls, Baggins, RUB 36,274. to the store
Conservative fashionistas who prefer gold jewelry in everyday life will definitely appreciate these elegant stud earrings with natural pearls. You can wear the jewelry with anything - with an office jacket or with a long evening dress.
Textured bracelet, Parts of Four
Textured bracelet, Parts of Four, RUB 279,772. to the store
An unusual bracelet with a raw texture will refresh your everyday outfit. Just dress as usual and add a trendy piece of jewelry on your wrist and you're done.
Gold bracelet with pearls, Melissa Joy Manning
Gold bracelet with pearls, Melissa Joy Manning, RUB 40,018. to the store
In addition to massive and rough jewelry, neat and elegant accessories that are appropriate in any situation are still in fashion. A thin chain bracelet with keshi pearls is just the case.
Gold chain with pendant, Annoushka
Gold chain with pendant, Annoushka, RUB 194,504. to the store
Beautiful gold jewelry with diamonds can look bright and trendy. Here is an excellent example of such an accessory - a chain with a pendant, which is decorated with sapphires and diamonds. The decoration is simply created for bright everyday outfits.
Budget trendy gold jewelry
We know that gold jewelry is expensive and not everyone can afford such luxury. But this is not a reason to refuse stylish and fashionable outfits. We found accessories that look just as good.
Gold plated earrings with pearls, Hsu Jewelery
Gold-plated earrings with pearls, Hsu Jewelery, RUB 9,306. to the store
Gold-plated, curved earrings are decorated with traditional pearls, which means they will be as relevant this year as in five years from now. This neat decoration can be worn with office and casual outfits.
Gold plated chain with large links, For Art's Sake
Gold-plated chain with large links, For Art's Sake, RUB 8,900. to the store
A massive chain made of metal links coated with 14-karat gold will make you the most fashionable this spring. Wear the necklace with a pantsuit, leather shirt and an elegant vintage cardigan.
Long rectangle earrings, Accessorize
Long earrings in the form of rectangles, Accessorize, 690 rub. to the store
Massive geometric earrings will fit into any outfit - be it an office skirt set or a relaxed outfit of denim and leather trousers.
Textured earrings, Bradex
Do you want to add something unusual to your holiday outfit? Earrings made of textured metal will complement your evening look. Wear them with a long black dress or a gold slip.
