Which gold fineness is better?
Gold fineness indicates how much pure gold is in the alloy. Gold fineness marks show how many parts of pure gold are in the mass of the alloy, for example, 375, 585, or 750. 585 fineness (14 karats) means that the alloy contains 58.5% pure gold, while the rest consists of other metals (silver, copper, palladium, nickel) that provide strength and color tone. There is also 375 fineness, which means that 375 parts out of 1000 are gold, and the rest are other metals. Meanwhile, 750 fineness (18 karats) contains as much as 75% pure gold, making the metal softer, warmer in color, and more of a symbol of luxury. 585 and 750 are the most popular gold finenesses in Lithuania, while 375 is also frequently encountered, especially in everyday items. Gold is a metal whose color and properties vary depending on the fineness and the composition of the alloy; for example, yellow and white gold products can have different shades. Prices may vary depending on the fineness, as the higher the amount of pure gold in the alloy, the higher the price. In Lithuania, all gold products must be marked with a fineness hallmark, which indicates how many parts of pure gold are in the alloy out of 1000 parts. The assaying process ensures that the quality of the products meets legal requirements.
However, for wedding rings, which experience daily contact with surfaces, 585 fineness is usually recommended. It is stronger, more scratch-resistant, and deforms less. Such rings are more practical for everyday wear – especially if your work is active or you frequently touch hard surfaces. 585 and 750 finenesses differ in the amount of pure gold in the alloy, which results in different properties and colors. The most popular gold colors for wedding rings are yellow and white gold, but there can be other shades depending on the alloy’s composition.
Meanwhile, 750 fineness rings are more suitable for those looking for a special shine, a warmer gold color, and who value luxury. This is a common choice for those who want an exclusive design, handmade rings, or who pair them with gemstones, as softer gold is easier for a jeweler to shape. Gold fineness in Lithuania is determined by the Assay Office, which checks the quantity in the alloy and marks the products with the appropriate hallmarks.
Gold color and its influence
When choosing wedding rings or other precious metal products, gold color becomes one of the most important aesthetic criteria. Although the color of pure gold is a rich yellow, various shades can be obtained by adding other metals – such as silver or copper – to the alloy. This is exactly why gold and silver, as well as copper and gold alloys, allow for the creation of classic yellow, modern white, or expressive red gold.
Gold fineness is directly related to the intensity of the color. The higher the fineness, the more precious metal is in the alloy, so the color becomes brighter and warmer. For example, 750 fineness gold features a richer yellow color, while 585 fineness gold has a slightly softer shade because it contains more of other metals. The color of white gold is achieved by adding more silver or palladium to the alloy, while red gold is obtained by allocating a larger part of the alloy’s composition to copper.
The Law on State Supervision of Precious Metals and Gemstones of the Republic of Lithuania provides that every gold product must be marked not only with its fineness but also with a clearly indicated color. This allows the consumer to know how much precious metal is in the product and what color of gold was used, making it easier to choose according to personal needs and match it with other jewelry.
It is important to know that gold color can also influence the price of the product – for example, white gold rings are often slightly more expensive due to additional rhodium plating, while red gold products are valued for their unique shade. Therefore, when choosing wedding rings, it is worth considering not only the fineness but also the color, so that the jewelry brings joy both in its appearance and durability.
Is it worth choosing palladium?
Recently, there has been more talk about alternatives to classic gold – for example, palladium. This is a precious metal belonging to the platinum group. It has a lighter color, is extremely resistant to oxidation, and is hypoallergenic, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
Palladium is harder than 750 fineness gold, so it is considered a practical choice for those who want a light-colored metal ring but do not want to invest in expensive platinum. Furthermore, palladium retains its color – unlike white gold, which can lose its rhodium plating layer after some time.
What is hardened gold?
Modern jewelry increasingly utilizes innovations, one of which is hardened gold technology. This is a manufacturing method where gold is processed using a cold method, pressing and densifying it, rather than melting it at high temperatures. Rings made this way are harder, scratch less, and maintain their original shape longer.
Hardened gold is an excellent choice for those who want a classic design but expect durability and resistance to daily challenges.
Which choice is best for you?
If durability, longevity, and practicality are most important to you – choose 585 fineness gold or hardened gold. If you value luxury, a soft gold color, and aim for an exclusive look – then 750 fineness will be an excellent choice.
The final decision is best made after consulting with a Fashiongold.lt professional jeweler, who will evaluate your lifestyle, design preferences, and suggest the most suitable option. After all, wedding rings are not just jewelry, but a lifelong symbol, so they must be beautiful, comfortable, and durable.
