Rose gold, also known as pink gold, is one of the most beautiful, soft and feminine jewellery choices out of all the colours of gold. Its subtle colour complements all skin tones, and it offers a timeless elegance to any backdrop or setting – formal or informal.
Whether you’re heading out on a special date or treating yourself to a luxurious gift you’ll appreciate for years to come, here’s everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this blush-hued golden precious metal.
What Is Rose Gold?
The metal rose gold is a metal blend of pure yellow gold, combined with other alloys such as copper and silver. Pure gold, while beautiful, is too soft to use alone in larger jewellery pieces which is why it is blended to give it strength and durability.
The ratio of alloys which are mixed with rose gold will determine exactly what hue and shade the final product bears. Rose gold is also known as red gold, and pink gold.
What Is The Origin And History Of Rose Gold?
Rose gold is said to have first been used in Russia in the early 1800’s by royalty and really became popular at the turn of the 19th century. It was made famous worldwide by the jeweller, Carl Faberge, who used the colour in his one-of-a-kind Faberge Eggs. The popularity of the eggs led to the colour being dubbed as Russian Gold. Over the years, the colour became highly prized around the world and found further fame in fine jewellery in the 1920’s, especially in America where it was used predominantly to make engagement rings.
The jewellery company Cartier became synonymous in the later part of the decade for incorporating the luxurious, romantic metal into many of their pieces, especially when using it as the setting for diamonds and other gemstones. Their Trinity Ring became famous, for it’s tri-gold intertwining beauty – and famous French filmmaker Jean Cocteau was one of the first celebrities of the time to wear it (on his pinkie finger).
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What Is Special About Rose Gold?
Rose gold is one of the best metals for every skin tone out there. The many soft, romantic shades of it compliment everyone and it is suitable for all kinds of jewellery – from rings, to bracelets, necklaces, and more.
The blush colour varies from a subtle pink champagne through to a more dominant rose-red colour and the pricing is done accordingly. This ability to have differentiating colours within its range make rose gold highly customisable and it is thus a highly unique metal.
Is Rose Gold Considered Real Gold?
Yes it is. Despite the fact rose gold is a mixture of gold with other alloys, it is indeed considered gold. The pure yellow gold most known is combined with copper, and often silver, to create the rose gold hue that gives rose gold its name.
You can find out how much real gold is within your rose gold by looking at the karat amount that’s within it. Ie: a piece of 18K will have over 75% real gold within it.
Is Rose Gold Valuable?
Rose gold is indeed valuable since it’s one of the most recognisable kinds of gold around – though it may be known elsewhere as pink gold. While each jewellery piece will have the amount it’s priced at varied, this depends upon the karat value of the gold content within it.
The colour of the rose gold will also depend on the ratio of pure yellow gold that is used when compared to copper. This will result in a more red-tinged rose colour and the jewellery item may get priced lower than one that has a higher gold content. For example, 14K rose gold will have more of a rose tinge to it when compared to an 18K rose gold piece. The 18K rose gold piece will be priced higher than the 14K gold one due to the different ratios of gold within them.
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Is Rose Gold Worth More Than Gold?
The vivid hue of rose gold may lead to many assuming it’s worth far more than the purer, yellow gold. However, this is a misconception, since the pricing given to rose gold is set mainly due to the gold content within the piece – ie: 9K gold or 18K gold.
This puts its value to the same as gold – though some pieces are priced slightly higher than an equivalent gold item, due to the processes rose gold undergoes.
What Are Some Popular Jewelry Styles For Rose Gold?
Due to its highly malleable state, rose gold jewellery is available in many popular styles. From chunky bracelets that can be engraved with names, messages of love, and more, to engagement rings and eternity rings.
In fact, pink diamonds and Padparadscha sapphires both paired exquisitely with rose gold to make a truly unique and entirely stunning statement piece.
How Can You Tell If Rose Gold Is Real?
In order to tell if your rose gold item is authentic, you’ll need to check the karat amount within it – or the hallmark of it if you’re in the United Kingdom. This symbol is used to verify all current jewellery items purity and ratio of gold within it.
Antique pieces may not bear this symbol; however, your jeweller will be able to advise you further should you need additional help authenticating your rose gold piece as real.
Does Rose Gold Tarnish Or Fade?
Unlike other metals, rose gold is unique in that it does not tarnish or fade over time. Instead, due to its copper content, it’s more likely to darken and take on a slightly more red-toned appearance over years of wear. This gives it a unique vintage look which many people love since it gives their jewellery item a sense of timelessness.
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How To Clean Rose Gold
To clean rose gold, you’ll need to avoid any kind of abrasive cloths or chemical cleaners. This can interfere with the jewellery. To clean rose gold jewellery, soap and water with a soft cloth are all you should need to keep your item free of dirt and debris.
Is Rose Gold Still In Style?
Rose gold jewellery has never gone out of style. This type of jewellery remains a classy, timeless piece which will suit all budgets. Investing in it ensures you have a jewellery item that will indeed stand on its own against trends.
Are Pink Gold And Rose Gold The Same?
When comparing pink gold and rose gold, some people wonder if these items are different. The answer is no, since pink gold and rose gold are both made up the same way. However, the tone of rose gold or pink gold is set according to the ratio of gold to silver and copper the jewellery item contains.
The highly romantic colour of rose gold is a great option to gift to yourself or a loved one. It remains a timeless, classy piece of jewellery which will blend in well with other items already owned.
Jump To a Section Below
- What Is Rose Gold?
- What Is The Origin And History Of Rose Gold?
- What Is Special About Rose Gold?
- Is Rose Gold Considered Real Gold?
- Is Rose Gold Valuable?
- Is Rose Gold Worth More Than Gold?
- What Are Some Popular Jewelry Styles For Rose Gold?
- How Can You Tell If Rose Gold Is Real?
- Does Rose Gold Tarnish Or Fade?
- How To Clean Rose Gold
- Is Rose Gold Still In Style?
- Are Pink Gold And Rose Gold The Same?
FAQs
What is rose gold? You probably know it's a beautiful precious metal with a rosy sheen. Many people consider it a romantic choice for engagement rings.
How would you describe rose gold? ›
What color is rose gold? Rose gold is a soft, golden-tinged shade of pink.
Does rose gold tarnish over time? ›
A major perk of rose gold is that it doesn't tarnish over time. However, just like any gold piece, rose gold jewelry like a rose gold watch, ring, bracelet, or earrings do need to be cleaned and polished from time to time.
Is rose gold better than gold? ›
However, rose gold is slightly more durable. Rose gold is a mixture of pure gold and a copper alloy, which makes it harder than pure gold. This is why rose gold engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular. This durability means that rose gold engagement rings will scratch and dent less than white gold rings.
What is the highest quality rose gold? ›
Purity & Appearance
Mathematically, 14k rose gold contains about 58% pure gold and 42% copper alloys while a 18k rose gold contains about 75% pure gold and 25% copper alloys. That means the 14k rose gold ring will have a more pinkish tone, while a similar 18k rose gold ring will have more of a yellow cast.
How long does rose gold plating last? ›
Rose plated gold jewelry can last around three years. It will not last as long as other platings such as gold and rhodium white. Signs of wear may include uneven wearing or a spotty appearance. You can have your jewelry replated with rose gold.
How can you tell if rose gold is real? ›
Look for the hallmark to see if there is a mark for the karat weight. Rose gold is by definition an alloy metal so there is no such thing as pure rose gold. Therefore, if your jewelry is marked as 24K, it is likely fake. The most common fineness for rose gold is 14K in the US and 18K in Europe.
Where is rose gold Found? ›
Rose Gold and the Columbians
The next rose gold usage, was found by archaeologists in South America. They discovered a preference for the red gold hue in the Nahuange period, AD 100 – 1,000, in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in Columbia, near the Caribbean coast.
Does rose gold fade to yellow? ›
Real rose gold jewelry, which is made of pure gold and metal alloys does not fade. While white gold, which is coated in rhodium to give it a whiter, shinier coating, requires re-coating every few years, rose gold does not require any additional coating to remain lustrous.
Can you shower with rose gold? ›
Yes, you can wear your 14-karat rose gold jewelry every day! However, we recommend taking it off before swimming or showering to prevent exposure to chemicals, saltwater, and chlorine. These chemicals can cause pink metals to fade over time.
Use a dry polishing cloth to regularly wipe your engagement and wedding rings and prevent them from needing more regular deep cleans. If you do want to give your rose gold rings a more thorough clean, you can soak them in warm water and mild dish soap.
Can you wear rose gold everyday? ›
Rose gold is known to be less prone to damage when wearing it every day versus yellow or white gold. It does not require additional layers of plating as other variations do and as mentioned above, it does not tarnish with age due to its unique patina.
Which is expensive rose gold or gold? ›
When it comes to rose gold, the copper that's used to create it costs less than other types of alloy metals. That means rose gold can be slightly less expensive than white or yellow gold. But remember, the price is based primarily on the amount of pure gold, not the alloy.
What skin tone can wear rose gold? ›
Unlike yellow gold, rose gold complements all skin tones. Pale skin tones or those with blue undertones shine with 10-karat or other very pink options. Warmer skin tones look gorgeous with higher-karat rose gold pieces with abundant copper in the alloy.
What karat is rose gold? ›
Rose gold is a blend, or an alloy of pure 24 karat yellow gold, copper and silver.
What does rose gold look like with age? ›
Rose gold doesn't tarnish. It can, however, begin to appear darker and slightly redder after years of wear. This isn't because of tarnish, though. It's the copper part of the rose gold becoming slightly darker and more vintage looking.
Which is better 14K or 18K rose gold? ›
Its addition to pure gold in order to make rose gold makes rose gold much more durable. The more copper and the less gold, the more durable the metal. Additions of silver and zinc, which also are strong metals, contribute to greater durability as well. This is why 14K rose gold is more durable than 18K rose gold.
Which is better 10K or 14K rose gold? ›
Just like white and yellow gold, 10K rose gold isn't very pure. As a result, its color is noticeably duller than 14K and 18K rose gold. It's slightly more durable than 14K rose gold and is popular for earrings and other mid-range jewelry, but isn't widely used for engagement rings.
How do you keep rose gold plating from tarnishing? ›
Keep gold plated jewelry in a plastic bag – When not using your gold plated jewelry, put it in a plastic bag, remove the excess air by squeezing it, and seal it. The lack of oxygen in the bag will help keep the gold plated jewelry bright and shiny.
Is rose gold easy to maintain? ›
It's more durable than yellow gold. However, it requires more maintenance as you'll need to get it re-plated in rhodium every few years. Rose gold has a romantic pink look. It's the most durable of the 3 and won't scratch easily.
Rose gold hair is the trend turning into a must-have, and could be the look that you're searching for. The soft, pastel pink shade draws attention, yet remains easy on the eyes. Its versatility means it can fade beautifully into a blonde ombre and bring out the warm, golden hues in any skin tone.
Does rose gold have resale value? ›
Resale value: As the main component of rose gold jewellery is pure gold, it has a great resale value—the same as yellow gold.
Does real gold stick to a magnet? ›
What to do: Hold the magnet up to the gold. If it's real gold it will not stick to the magnet. (Fun fact: Real gold is not magnetic.) Fake gold, on the other hand, will stick to the magnet.
Are there different shades of rose gold? ›
Since rose gold is an alloy, you'll notice how different jewelers have different shades of rose gold - some lands towards the golden side, while others are more reddish. This depends on how much copper is added in it. Lower karat rose gold alloys contain more copper, and will therefore be more pink.
What is rose gold used for? ›
Rose gold, also known as pink gold and red gold, was popular in Russia at the beginning of the 19th century, and was also known as Russian gold, although this term is now obsolete. Rose gold jewelry is becoming more popular in the 21st century, and is commonly used for wedding rings, bracelets, and other jewelry.
Why do they call it rose gold? ›
Blending yellow gold and copper created an alluring pink material that was first coined as “Russian Gold.” As this mix of alloys became popular among jewellers around the world, it was later renamed “Rose Gold.” The colour of rose gold depends on the ratio of copper to gold, ranging from a soft pink to a deep red.
Can rose gold be mined? ›
Rose quartz and gold may be mined today by the amateur or the serious prospector. Active and inactive mines, in many locations, are open to the public for a fee. At these mines, you can be a prospector for a day, digging and panning for quartz or gold.
Does rose gold look cheap? ›
While rose gold is cheaper than yellow and white gold, it does not look cheap. Its hue represents elegance, and it's a distinct type of gold.
Why is my rose gold ring turning silver? ›
Yellow and rose gold can also change colour due to oxidation or chemical reactions. Oxidation is a process caused by simple daily exposure to oxygen, which can eventually affect the colours of different precious metals.
Does rose gold make diamonds look yellow? ›
If you go with a yellow or rose gold setting for your D to F colored diamond, it may look very slightly yellow as it reflects your setting's color.
Rose gold is more affordable than platinum, and has approximately the same price point as white gold and yellow gold. 18K yellow gold is more affordable than platinum, and at the same price point as white gold and rose gold.
Which is better silver or rose gold? ›
If you have a cool skin tone, silver and white gold looks excellent while rose gold is striking on warm and cool skin tones. Warm skin tones pair well with yellow gold as it really stands out and bring out the shine.
Does rose gold have resale value? ›
Resale value: As the main component of rose gold jewellery is pure gold, it has a great resale value—the same as yellow gold.
Is Pandora rose gold real gold? ›
But they aren't made in the traditional way: instead, they're created with a unique metal blend of plated rose gold that is more affordable than solid rose-gold jewellery. The blend of metal is made up primarily of copper and silver.
How can you tell if rose gold is real? ›
Look for the hallmark to see if there is a mark for the karat weight. Rose gold is by definition an alloy metal so there is no such thing as pure rose gold. Therefore, if your jewelry is marked as 24K, it is likely fake. The most common fineness for rose gold is 14K in the US and 18K in Europe.
Where is rose gold Found? ›
Rose Gold and the Columbians
The next rose gold usage, was found by archaeologists in South America. They discovered a preference for the red gold hue in the Nahuange period, AD 100 – 1,000, in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in Columbia, near the Caribbean coast.
What karat is rose gold? ›
Rose gold is a blend, or an alloy of pure 24 karat yellow gold, copper and silver.
What skin tone looks best with rose gold? ›
Unlike yellow gold, rose gold complements all skin tones. Pale skin tones or those with blue undertones shine with 10-karat or other very pink options. Warmer skin tones look gorgeous with higher-karat rose gold pieces with abundant copper in the alloy.
What metal looks best on my skin? ›
People with cool skin tones look good in light or white metals such as white gold, platinum and silver. People with warm skin tones look good in yellow and rose gold, copper and brass jewelry. If you have a neutral skin tone, you'll look good in both white metals and yellow metals.
How do you clean rose gold jewelry? ›
Related FAQs
- Add a few drops of gentle dishwashing liquid to a bowl of lukewarm water.
- Soak each piece separately in the solution for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the bowl and gently scrub using a soft-bristled toothbrush – one that you only use for this purpose.
- Rinse well in clean, lukewarm water to get rid of residue.
Pros & Cons of Rose Gold
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| More durable than yellow or white gold. | Not hypoallergenic – due to copper in alloy. |
| Surprisingly affordable. | Not as widely available as white or yellow gold rings. |
| Doesn't require rhodium plating. | |
| Vintage appeal with a romantic connotation. | |
1 more row27 Apr 2015
Yes, you can get 14k rose gold wet. However, we do not recommend it. Prolonged exposure to water can cause 14k rose gold to tarnish and lose its luster over time. If you do get your rose gold wet, be sure to dry it off as soon as possible.
Does rose gold get rusty? ›
ADVANTAGES OF ROSE GOLD
Gold doesn't rust, tarnish or corrode, and it won't lose its colour over time. It's prized for its lasting beauty that improves with age. Gold is much more malleable than platinum, so it's easier to work into fine, intricate designs.
Why is my rose gold Pandora ring turning my finger green? ›
First of all, I have to assure you that there is no danger to your health when your rose gold engagement ring turns your finger green or black. This color change is caused by the natural reaction between the acidity of your body and the metal of the ring.
Can Pandora Rose gold get wet? ›
We recommend that customers remove their Pandora jewelry before going to bed, showering, swimming or participating in physical activity. Your jewelry must not be exposed to chlorine or salt water, as this will dull the appearance.
What is rose gold made of? ›
Rose gold is an alloy made from a combination of pure gold and copper. The blend of the two metals changes the color of the final product and its karat. For example, the most common alloy of rose gold is 75 percent pure gold to 25 percent copper, which makes 18k rose gold.
