A gold alloy identified by the “18 karat” designation contains 18 parts pure gold and 6 parts other metals. This proportion signifies that 75% of the alloy’s mass is gold, while the remaining 25% consists of metals such as silver, copper, or zinc. The inclusion of these additional metals serves to increase the alloy’s durability and alter its color, allowing for variations like yellow, white, or rose hues.
This particular gold alloy offers a balance between purity and practicality. The higher gold content contributes to a rich color and maintains a significant intrinsic value. Simultaneously, the added metals enhance the alloy’s strength, making it suitable for jewelry that withstands daily wear. Historically, this ratio has been favored for fine jewelry and investment pieces due to its combination of aesthetic appeal, lasting quality, and precious metal content.