Diamondearrings.com chooses to use 18k(18kt),gold for this size of diamond earrings. we feel that 18kt gold, with its higher content of pure gold adds to the elegance and value of our fine diamond earrings.

Pure gold(24karat) by itself is too soft to use for jewelry that is worn regularly. For this reason, pure gold is combined with other metals such as, copper, silver, nickle and zinc to make it stronger and more durable-an important factor when set with beautiful diamonds.

Since ancient times the purity of gold has been described by the term "Karat", (not to be confused with the term "carat" which is a unit of measure used in weighing diamonds and other gems). A Karat in gold terminology is referring to the actual amount of pure gold that is in the jewelry. For example, 14Karat(14kt) Gold is 14 parts of pure gold and 10 parts alloy., or other stronger metals. 18Karat(18kt)Gold is 18 parts pure gold and only 6 parts metal alloy.

Gold has been valued for centuries for its rich luster and beautiful sheen. Gold is one of the most precious metals in the world and although it is found in our rivers, seas and the earth's crust, it is difficult and expensive to extract. It takes approximately 3 tons of ore to extract one ounce of gold.

Below we show a chart of 24kt, 18kt and 14kt gold with their gold percentages and the US and European jewelers' markings usually inscribed inside a piece of jewelry:

Jewelers like working with gold because when it is heated it is easy to form. At higher temperatures gold becomes a liguid and can easily be poured into a mold. Another of it's attractive qualities is that it doesn't oxidize and therefore there is not much polishing that needs to be done for gold to attain it's shining appearance.

As jewelery gold needs little attention except periodic cleaning or occasionally a polishing if the piece of jewelry is subject to much contact with other surfaces. Otherwise gold will last for many generations and always be pleasing to look at.