Know-How

18K Gold-Plated Jewelry – Affordable Investment in Quality

The purest gold, 24 karat, is highly malleable, expensive, and never used for commercial jewelry for those two reasons. Most fine jewelry is made instead from 18 karat gold, with 18k gold-plated jewelry offering many more benefits due to the characteristics of whatever metal it is alloyed with. What does this mean for someone interested in high quality jewelry to add to their collection? Is 18 K gold-plated jewelry a worthwhile investment for both fashion and the future?

Why Choose 18K Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Gold-plated bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces, and brooches are chosen for two main reasons. First, they give you the amazing look and feel of genuine gold. Second, they are much stronger than solid gold and will therefore last much longer and resists damage more easily. No one wants to spend money on a beautiful piece of jewelry only to have it dented, scratched, and worn down after a few uses.

A third reason to choose 18 karat gold-plated fine jewelry is cost. The plating gives an exceptional look without raising prices to unobtainable heights. This makes it possible for more men and women to enjoy a whole collection of pieces without overextending their fashion accessory budget. The ultimate decision whether you are comfortable with plated jewelry or not depends on many personal factors. Designers create a wide variety of options in these less expensive materials so that more people can enjoy the look they want. However, some still consider plated options less desirable. This is especially true if you intend to use jewelry as an investment in fine metals themselves.

Is 18K Gold-Plated Jewelry Hypoallergenic?

Gold itself is perfectly hypoallergenic. However, since no jewelry is made of pure gold, it is possible to have an allergy to the metals mixed with it. Also, if the gold plating wears off your ring or bracelet, you may discover an allergy to the base metal underneath. Some of the most common metal allergies are to copper, silver, and nickel, which are commonly used in jewelry making and is an alloy mixed with other metals. The least allergenic is titanium, which has become popular in fine jewelry and especially engagement and wedding rings. It is not, however, commonly used as a base for 18K gold plating.

Will 18K Gold-Plated Jewelry Stand the Test of Time?

Yes. Due to the high purity of 18K gold itself, you do not have to worry about discoloration or the outside layer of fine metal wearing off if you take care of your rings, necklaces, and other pieces properly. However, this will happen eventually with well-worn pieces depending on how thick the plating is. Although less expensive than pure gold pieces, proper plating offers a more affordable option that never looks cheap or loses its value.

Quality 18K gold-plated jewelry that is well-designed and constructed by expert craftspeople will last and bring as much enjoyment to the wearer every time they put it on. This makes it an excellent option for wedding jewelry, personalized charms, heirloom pieces, and more.