The Real Gem Guide to Precious Metals
Gold, Platinum and How to Choose
Your choice of metal matters as much as the stone it holds. From the warm glow of yellow gold to the bright finish of white gold and the strength of platinum, each metal affects the look, feel and lifespan of your jewellery.
This guide explains gold vs platinum, the carat system for gold, and how to choose the right metal for your style and lifestyle.
Gold Carats: 9k, 14k, 18k, 22k and 24k
Pure gold is soft, so it's mixed (alloyed) with other metals for strength and colour. The carat (k) tells you how much pure gold is in the mix.
| Carat | Gold content | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 24k | 99.9% | Pure gold. Very soft and rich yellow; rarely used in jewellery |
| 22k | 91.6% | Warm, deep yellow; popular in traditional jewellery |
| 18k | 75% | The fine jewellery standard: rich colour and excellent durability |
| 14k | 58.5% | Slightly paler colour; more resistant to scratches |
| 9k | 37.5% | The most affordable; durable, but paler in colour |
Good to know: 18k gold is 75% pure gold and offers the best balance of luxury and everyday wear. It's our standard.
Platinum: The Premium Choice
Platinum is a dense, naturally white metal known for its strength and rarity, and a popular choice for engagement rings.
- Our platinum is 950 (95% pure)
- Hypoallergenic and doesn't tarnish
- Heavier than gold
- Naturally white, so it doesn't need rhodium plating
Best for: diamond engagement rings, wedding bands, heirloom pieces and sensitive skin.
Our Standard: 18k Gold and Platinum
Our collections are made in:
- Solid 18k gold (white, yellow or rose)
- Platinum 950
We never use gold-plated, vermeil or gold-filled metals. Every piece is solid gold or platinum.
White, Yellow or Rose Gold?
White gold
- A bright, silvery finish and a great alternative to platinum
- Rhodium-plated for extra brightness
- May need re-plating every so often to keep its shine
Ideal for: classic styles, bridal jewellery and cool skin tones.
Yellow gold
- Timeless and rich in colour
- Beautiful with rubies, emeralds and traditional designs
- Needs the least maintenance
Ideal for: vintage-inspired pieces and warm skin tones.
Rose gold
- Romantic and contemporary
- A warm, pink tone that flatters most skin tones
- Strong and durable, thanks to its copper content
Ideal for: softer styles, mixed-metal stacks and bespoke designs.
Can I Choose a Different Metal?
Yes. Our pieces are made in 18k gold or platinum as standard, but we can make most designs in:
- 9k gold: a more affordable everyday option
- 14k gold: less gold content, great durability
- 22k gold: richer colour, popular in traditional jewellery
Just contact us with the name of the piece you like, or start a bespoke design, and we'll send you a quote.
The Best Metal for an Engagement Ring
- Platinum: the most durable, with a naturally white finish
- 18k white gold: timeless and a little more affordable
- 18k yellow or rose gold: adds warmth and character
We're happy to help you choose based on your lifestyle, taste and the stone you've chosen.