UNO.LONDON

Solid gold jewellery is made entirely of gold, without any other metals mixed in as a core or coating. It is crafted from an alloy where gold is the primary metal, combined with other metals to increase its strength and durability.

Solid gold is available in various purities, measured in karats. Common purities include 24k (pure gold), 18k, 14k, and 10k. Higher karat numbers indicate higher gold content.

The colour of solid gold jewellery can vary based on the metals used in the alloy. Common colour include yellow gold, white gold (mixed with metals like nickel or palladium and often coated with rhodium), and rose gold (mixed with copper).

At Uno, most of our jewellery is crafted in either 14k solid gold or 18k solid gold.

18k gold jewellery, composed of 75% pure gold and 25% alloyed metals, boasts a rich, vibrant colour that makes it a luxurious choice. This high gold content enhances its value and prestige, positioning it as a premium option for those seeking elegance. However, this luxury comes with a need for careful handling, as 18k gold is softer than 14k making it more prone to scratches and dents. On the plus side, its higher gold content means it is less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive skin.

On the other hand, 14k gold jewellery, which contains 58.3% pure gold. This composition makes it more durable and scratch-resistant than 18k gold, making it a suitable choice for everyday wear. Additionally, 14k gold is more affordable than 18k gold, providing a good balance of gold colour and strength without the high cost. Although its colour is slightly paler than that of 18k gold, it remains rich and appealing, making it a popular choice for those who desire a blend of durability, beauty, and affordability in their jewellery.

1. Check for Stamp: Look for a stamp on the jewellery, which indicates the type of gold and its purity. Common stamp include numbers like Au585 (14K) and Au750 (18K). For necklaces and bracelets, look for the stamp on the clasp. Charms often have the stamp on the bail, and for earrings, check the post. These stamps can be tiny, so you might need a magnifying glass to spot them clearly.  You can confidently ascertain the authenticity of a piece by spotting a stamp, as many countries enforce strict regulations against false stamping of jewellery by businesses.

2. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis: This is a non-destructive test that can accurately determine the composition of the metal. These type of costly machines are typically exclusive major jewellers or specialised laboratories.

Solid gold jewellery does not tarnish over time and can be easily cleaned and polished. It maintains its appearance and integrity for a lifetime, making it a durable choice for daily wear.

Solid Gold jewellery retains significant intrinsic value due to its high gold content. It can be melted down and recycled for its gold value, making it a good investment.

Solid gold jewellery is unlikely to cause allergic reactions, especially in higher karats like 18k, which have fewer alloyed metals that might cause irritation.

Solid gold jewellery can be passed down through generations, retaining its sentimental and monetary value.

The value of solid gold jewellery is intimately tied to the market price of gold due to its high gold content. Over the past decade, the price of gold has displayed a consistent upward trend, despite occasional fluctuations and periods of volatility. This trend underscores gold's reputation as a safe-haven asset, prized for its ability to safeguard wealth, particularly during times of economic uncertainty and inflation.

As gold prices increase, so does the value of solid gold jewellery. This appreciation reflects not only the heightened worth of the material itself but also the investment potential it represents.

For individuals who own solid gold jewellery, this price trend can serve as a reassuring reminder of the inherent value of their possessions. Whether as a cherished heirloom, a fashion statement, or an investment, solid gold jewellery offers both aesthetic beauty and financial security.