The gold can be classified based on its purity, color, and alloy composition:
Classification by Purity
- Pure Gold (24K Gold):
- Contains more than 99.9% gold, is the purest form of gold, and has a bright yellow color. However, it is relatively soft and easily deformed, making it generally unsuitable as the primary material for jewelry.
- 18K Gold:
- Contains 75% gold. Due to its moderate hardness and high durability, it is commonly used for making high-end jewelry. The color can vary depending on the alloy composition.
- 14K Gold:
- Contains 58.5% gold, has higher hardness and durability, and is suitable for everyday wear jewelry.
- 10K Gold:
- Contains 41.7% gold, the lowest gold content among the commonly used gold types, but it has high hardness and durability and is relatively affordable.
Classification by Color
Yellow Gold:
- The most common type of gold, naturally yellow, typically made from pure gold or gold alloyed with small amounts of silver and copper.
White Gold:
- Made by mixing gold with platinum, palladium, or other white metals, resulting in a silver-white color. It is often rhodium-plated to enhance brightness and durability.
Rose Gold:
- Created by alloying gold with copper and silver, producing a pink or rose color. The higher the copper content, the redder the color.
Green Gold:
- Made by alloying gold with silver and copper, resulting in a pale green color.
Blue Gold:
- Produced by mixing gold with iron or titanium, giving it a blue hue, though it is less common.
Black Gold:
- Made by alloying gold with platinum and copper and undergoing special surface treatments (such as oxidation or burnishing) to achieve a black or dark gray color.
Classification by Alloy Composition
Platinum Gold:
- Primarily composed of platinum and gold, white in color, hard, and highly wear-resistant, commonly used in high-end jewelry.
Palladium Gold:
- Made by mixing gold with palladium, white in color, with high corrosion resistance and hardness.
Silver Gold:
- Composed of gold and silver, white or pale yellow in color, softer, and relatively more affordable.
Special Treatments
Gold Plated:
- A thin layer of gold is plated onto the surface of another metal or non-metal for decoration and protection, but it does not have the value of pure gold.
Gold Filled:
- Gold is mechanically bonded to the surface of a base material, with a higher gold content than gold plating, offering better quality and durability.
Conclusion
There are many types of gold, each with unique properties and applications. The choice of gold type for making jewelry or other items depends on personal preference, intended use, and budget.