Gold is a precious metal that has been used to make jewelry for thousands of years. It is durable, shiny, and valuable, which is why it is still a popular choice for jewelry making today.
However, not all gold jewelry is created equal. Some are made of solid gold, while others are made of a combination of gold and other metals. In this article, we will discuss "made gold," including its types, manufacturing process, pros and cons, and care tips.
Definition of Made Gold
Made gold refers to any type of gold jewelry that is not made of pure gold. Pure gold is 24 karats and is too soft to be used for jewelry making. Therefore, gold jewelry is often made of a combination of gold and other metals. Gold may be used in three different ways: solid, plated, and filled.
Brief history of Made Gold
The history of made gold dates back to ancient times, when gold was first used for jewelry making. Egyptians were the first to use gold for making jewelry, and their designs were often symbolic and featured animals, plants, and gods.
In medieval Europe, goldsmiths used gold to make intricate designs, and it became a symbol of wealth and status. Today, gold is still a popular choice for jewelry making, and made gold is a more affordable alternative to solid gold.
Different Forms of Gold
Gold is produced in three different ways: as solid gold, gold plating, and gold filling.
Solid Gold
Solid gold jewelry is made of gold that is alloyed with other metals to increase its durability. The karat of solid gold jewelry refers to the amount of gold in the alloy. For example, 18-karat gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals, while 14-karat gold is 58.5% gold and 41.5% other metals.
Gold Plated
Gold plated jewelry is made of a base metal that is coated with a layer of gold. The thickness of the gold layer can vary, but it is usually between 0.5 and 2.5 microns. Gold-plated jewelry is more affordable than solid gold jewelry, but the gold layer can wear off over time.
Gold Filled
Gold filled jewelry is made of a base metal that is covered with a thick layer of gold. The gold layer is usually 5% or 1/20th of the total weight of the jewelry. Gold filled jewelry is more durable than gold plated jewelry and can last for years.
How Made Gold is Made
The manufacturing process of made gold depends on the type of jewelry being made.
Manufacturing of solid gold
The manufacturing process of solid gold jewelry involves mixing pure gold with other metals to create an alloy. The alloy is then heated and cooled to create a solid piece of gold that can be shaped into jewelry.
Gold Plating Process
The gold plating process involves dipping a piece of jewelry into a solution that contains gold particles. The solution is then electrified, causing the gold particles to adhere to the surface of the jewelry. The thickness
Of the gold layer can be controlled by adjusting the voltage and duration of the process.
Gold Filling Process
The gold filling process involves bonding a layer of gold to a base metal through heat and pressure. The gold layer is usually thicker than the gold plating process, making it more durable and longer-lasting.
Pros and Cons of Made Gold
Like any type of jewelry, made gold has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Made Gold
- Affordability: Made gold is often more affordable than solid gold jewelry, making it accessible to a wider range of customers.
- Durability: Gold plated, and gold filled jewelry can be more durable than solid gold jewelry since they are made with a combination of metals.
- Variety: Made gold comes in a variety of styles and designs, allowing customers to find a piece that suits their taste and budget.
Disadvantages of Made Gold
- Allergies: Some people may be allergic to the other metals in the alloy used to make gold jewelry.
- Wear and tear: Gold plating can wear off over time, revealing the base metal underneath. Gold filled jewelry can also wear down over time, especially if it is exposed to water or chemicals.
- Value: Made gold jewelry may not hold its value as well as solid gold jewelry, which can be a consideration for customers who are looking for a long-term investment.
How to Care for Made Gold Jewelry
To keep making gold jewelry looking its best, it's important to take proper care of it.
- Store it properly: Store made gold jewelry in a dry, cool place, and keep it separate from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
- Clean it regularly: Use a soft cloth or a jewelry cleaning solution to clean made gold jewelry regularly, especially if it has been exposed to water or chemicals.
- Avoid wearing it in water: Remove made gold jewelry before swimming or showering to prevent damage.
Conclusion
Made gold is a popular choice for those who want the look of gold jewelry without the high price tag. There are different types of made gold, including solid gold, gold plated, and gold filled, each with its own manufacturing process and pros and cons. Proper care is essential to keep made gold jewelry looking its best and to prevent wear and tear.
FAQs
1. Is made gold jewelry real gold?
- Made gold jewelry is not made of pure gold, but is a combination of gold and other metals. It can be solid gold, gold plated, or gold filled.
2. How long does gold plating last?
- The thickness of the gold plating can affect how long it lasts, but it typically wears off over time and exposure to water and chemicals.
3. Is made gold jewelry hypoallergenic?
- Made gold jewelry may contain other metals that can cause allergies in some people. It's important to check the materials used to make the jewelry before purchasing.
4. How do I clean made gold jewelry?
- Use a soft cloth or a jewelry cleaning solution to clean made gold jewelry regularly, especially if it has been exposed to water or chemicals.
5. Is made gold jewelry a good investment?
- Made gold jewelry may not hold its value as well as solid gold jewelry, so it may not be the best long-term investment. However, it can still be a good choice for those who want a stylish and affordable piece of jewelry.