When we say “gold”, it is only natural to think of classic yellow gold jewellery. But lately, there is a new shade of gold jewellery that is growing in popularity: Rose gold. These gold-coloured, pink-tinged jewellery pieces are perceived as trendy, modern favourites. But there is so much more to rose gold jewellery than meets the eye.
What is Rose Gold?
Rose gold is an alloy that is made of gold and copper. This combination of two metals is commonly 75% gold and 25% copper, which means that it contains 18K gold. The significant copper content in the alloy lends rose gold jewellery its rose-coloured tinge. Some jewellers may also prefer adding silver to the mix to soften the shade of pink.
The History of Rose Gold
Rose gold, compared to its yellow counterpart, has a more recent-but-rich history. Its use in the mainstream dates to 19th century Russia where it was used in Fabergé eggs, giving this rose-coloured alloy the name “Russian Gold”. Later, in the 1920s, rose gold resurfaced in popularity this time in the USA, where the alloy was used in engagement rings. The most famous of these rings was Cartier’s Trinity Ring. The simple band had three intertwined rings made of white gold (for friendship), yellow gold (for fidelity), and rose gold (for love).
Today, rose gold as a colour and as jewellery is well known and is still growing in popularity. While you may find rose gold jewellery in contemporary designs, it is not uncommon to stumble upon designs that lean towards traditional as well.
Rose Gold Vs Rose Gold Plating
On your hunt for rose gold jewellery, you may likely come across rose gold-plated jewellery too. Rose gold plating refers to the process of coating a non-gold, less valuable metal alloy with a very thin layer of rose gold. The technique is similar to 18K gold plating.
Any jewellery piece that has undergone the process of rose gold plating is referred to as rose gold-plated jewellery. The base metal used for rose gold-plated jewellery can be sterling silver, copper, brass and even stainless steel. The thin layer that the base metal is coated with is made of real rose gold, i.e., a combination of 18K gold and copper (along with silver for a milder pink shade).
Given that the base metal of rose gold plated jewellery is made of less valuable metal, they are a lot more affordable compared to rose gold jewellery.
So if you’re looking for affordable rose gold pendants, bracelets, or necklaces, the ones with rose gold plating are a great place to start. They can give you the look and feel of rose gold jewellery but at a fraction of the cost of the real deal.
Looking to buy rose gold plated jewellery online? GIVA is the place to be! Check out our rose gold collection now.
Is Rose Gold Plated Jewellery Expensive?
Jewellery with rose gold plating is a cost-effective alternative to pure rose gold jewellery. As the base metal used for the plated version is less valuable, it comes at a lower price compared to real rose gold. However, well-crafted rose gold-plated jewellery with sterling silver as its base, while affordable, does not come cheap. A basic, small sterling silver jewellery piece that is coated with rose gold would cost approximately Rs.799.
From pendants to bracelets, GIVA’s got some stunning rose gold must-haves! Buy rose gold online here.
Should I Buy Rose Gold Plated Jewellery over Rose Gold Jewellery?
Your decision to choose rose gold-plated jewellery over pure rose gold jewellery depends on several factors:
- Budget: Pure rose gold jewellery costs the same as an 18K yellow gold piece of the same quantity. So if budget is a constraint, rose gold-plated jewellery is the better choice. However, if you are looking at investing, rose gold is the way to go.
- Resale value: As the main component of rose gold jewellery is pure gold, it has a great resale value the same as yellow gold. The resale value of rose gold-plated jewellery, on the other hand, depends on its base metal, which is typically less valuable than gold.
- Occasion: If you don’t see yourself keeping a hefty shopping budget for an occasion, rose gold-plated jewellery can be a better option.
Why ShouldYou Buy Rose Gold Plated Jewellery?
- Beauty: A rose gold jewellery’s beauty is brought out by its pink-golden shimmer and can make for a stunning addition to your jewellery collection. The metal blends well with a wide range of colours, complimenting any stone the piece is paired with.
- Affordability: Small on your budget but big on taste? Rose gold-plated jewellery is definitely for you. You can find a wide range of pocket-friendly yet stunning pieces in the market be it classic rose gold bracelets or cute pendants
Check out GIVA’s rose gold collection here.
- Stylish yet timeless: Trendy meets romantic that’s how we like to describe rose gold! A well-crafted rose gold-plated piece can bring out the trendsetter in you, all while lending your ensemble a chic feel.
- Versatility: Looking for a simple pendant to go with your work formals? Or a stunning necklace to complement your ethnic wear? Rose gold-plated jewellery is your answer for both these occasions and more. You can find a diverse collection of rose gold pieces for every occasion.
- Suitable for all skin tones: Rose gold jewellery compliments all skin tones, thanks to its golden shine and deep-pink hue. So if you’re not too big a fan of the look of yellow gold on your skin, try rose gold-plated jewellery instead!
How Long Does Rose Gold Plated Jewellery Last?
While rose gold plating lends a jewellery piece the same sheenas that of pure rose gold one, the former is still prone to tarnish. This fading of shine and colour is common in most plated jewellery due to the thin layer of coating.
A well-maintained rose gold-plated jewellery can retain its shine for two to three years.
How Can you Maintain your Rose Gold Plated Jewellery?
The tarnish of your rose gold plated jewellery is inevitable. However, a few tips can go a long way in retaining its shine:
Avoid contact with chemicals: Make sure you keep your jewellery away from all chemicals, including cosmetics. As a rule, apply your skincare and cosmetics, let your skin absorb the products, and then put on your rose gold-plated jewellery.
- Keep away from water: Exposure to water and any other liquids may cause your rose gold-plated jewellery to lose its lustre. So avoid any contact with water while you have your jewellery on.
- Remove immediately after use: When you’re done using your jewellery, remove them immediately. The longer you have them on, the more prone you are to sweating or being in contact with substances that may damage your pieces.
- Clean with a soft cloth: Make sure you polish your jewellery often using a very soft cloth or cotton balls. This will keep your plated pieces in better shape.
- Store carefully: Store your rose gold-plated jewellery separately from all your other pieces. If you are keeping all your rose gold pieces in one place, ensure they don’t rub against each other as it may lead to scratches.
Where Should you Buy your Rose Gold Plated Jewellery from?
The quality of the base metal used, the thickness of the rose gold coating and the craftsmanship contribute to your rose gold plated pieces’ long-lasting lustre. It is hard to determine these factors, especially if you are buying your rose gold jewellery online. So, ensure that you buy your rose gold-plated jewellery from a trusted seller.
GIVA offers a wide range of certified sterling silver jewellery plated in rose gold. Check out our rose gold collection for stunning bracelets, beautifully crafted necklaces, and more.
The Best Rose Gold Plated Jewellery for you
Earrings, pendants, bracelets, necklaces, and more all made of quality sterling silver, coated in beautiful rose gold and crafted with a great eye for detail! Check out GIVA’s rose gold collection at www.giva.co.
