Rose gold – red gold – pink gold Rose gold is a gold-copper alloy, widely used for specialized jewellery. Rose gold, also known as pink gold and red gold, was popular in Russia and continental Europe at the beginning of the nineteenth century, and was also known as Russian gold, Portuguese, or welsh gold etc. They all had something in common. They used copper as the alloy which adds unmatched strength when compared to other colour golds. Rose gold jewellery is becoming more popular in the 21st century, and is commonly used for wedding rings, bracelets, and other jewellery. Although the names are often used interchangeably, the difference between red, rose, and pink gold is the copper content: the higher the copper content, the stronger the red coloration. Pink gold uses the least copper, followed by rose gold, with red gold having the highest copper content. Examples of the common alloys for 18K rose gold, 18K red gold, 18K pink gold, and 14K red gold and 9K red /rose/pink golds
- 18K red gold: 75% gold, 25% copper
- 18K rose gold: 75% gold, 22.25% copper, 2.75% silver
- 18K pink gold: 75% gold, 20% copper, 5% silver
- 14K red gold: 58% gold and 42% copper.
Up to 15% zinc can be added to copper-rich alloys to change their color to reddish yellow or dark yellow. 14K red gold, often found in the Middle East, contains around 42% copper. The highest karat version of rose gold, also known as crown gold, is 22 karat. It’s used for Kruger Rands and other gold coins and certain Indian and middle eastern jewellery During ancient times, due to impurities in the smelting process, gold frequently turned a reddish color. Therefore, many Greco-Roman texts, and even many texts from the Middle Ages, describe gold as “red”. Overall, rose gold engagement rings are making a comeback. They were popular at the turn of the century, and they’re experiencing a revival. Many people love them for their vintage appeal and antique appearance. However, like any jewelry, it’s a very subjective decision. Some people love the brilliance of platinum or white gold and would rather wear a ring that embodies that aesthetic. Rose gold is also often used in place of white gold in the case of nickel allergies, and in place of yellow gold because rose gold is more durable. In the end, it’s your personal and subjective choice. In my opinion, it’s the metal for hopeless romantics with the warmest hues of any of the precious metals. Regards, Pedro Da Silva
