gold purity : What are the different types of gold alloys?

Gold alloys are a mixture of gold with one or more other metals, which are added to make the gold more durable and practical for use in jewelry and other applications. The purity of gold alloys is measured in karats, with 24-karat gold being the purest form of gold. Here are some of the most common types of gold alloys:

1. 24-karat gold: This is the purest form of gold, with a purity of 99.9%. It is too soft to be used in jewelry and is typically used for investment purposes.

2. 22-karat gold: This gold alloy is made with 22 parts gold and 2 parts other metals, typically copper and silver. It has a purity of 91.7% and is commonly used in jewelry.

3. 18-karat gold: This gold alloy is made with 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals, typically copper, silver, and nickel. It has a purity of 75% and is commonly used in high-end jewelry.

4. 14-karat gold: This gold alloy is made with 14 parts gold and 10 parts other metals, typically copper and silver. It has a purity of 58.3% and is commonly used in affordable jewelry.

5. 10-karat gold: This gold alloy is made with 10 parts gold and 14 parts other metals, typically copper and silver. It has a purity of 41.7% and is commonly used in low-end jewelry.

6. Rose gold: This gold alloy is made with a combination of gold, copper, and silver. The higher the copper content, the redder the gold will appear. It is commonly used in fine jewelry.

7. White gold: This gold alloy is made with a combination of gold, nickel, and palladium or platinum. It has a silver-white color and is commonly used in fine jewelry.

8. Green gold: This gold alloy is made with a combination of gold, silver, and copper. It has a greenish color and is commonly used in vintage jewelry.

In conclusion, there are many different types of gold alloys, each with its own unique properties and uses. Understanding the different types of gold alloys can help you make informed decisions when purchasing gold jewelry or other gold items.