GoldHistoryIndia is smitten by gold and how! This metal is the epitome of heritage, prosperity and opulence. Its warmth and traditional appeal makes it a true classic piece of any bridal jewellery. The charm of gold dates back to 2600 BC when Egyptians revered Gold as an indestructible and a divine metal. Romans rekindled this relationship and took it to another level by mass producing it. India’s love affair with gold starts with mythological tales of how Gods rode on chariots made of gold. Over centuries this liaison has helped Gold become an inseparable part of the Indian psyche.  

PersonaIndia, one of the world’s largest gold consumers, is a significant market for gold jewellery. In the last decade itself, about 75% of gold demand has been for gold jewellery alone. Through ages, gold has not only been used for jewellery but is also vital for technological applications and innovation. Characterized by a distinct yellow colour, this metal is resistant to tarnish, rust and even corrosion. Pure gold is so soft that it can be moulded with someone’s bare hands. Hence, 24K pure gold is never used for jewellery. 22K gold is 22 parts gold and 2 parts of other additional metals which makes it 91.6% pure. The next in line is 18K gold which is 75% pure and is usually alloyed with metals like silver, copper, nickel and zinc for added strength and durability. Gold is a metal that can complement any occasion. Whether you choose to wear it every day or as traditional gold wedding jewellery, it never fails to lure admirers.  

9K gold denotes 37.5% gold purity. 9K is the minimum standard used in India and is widely used for making profound jewellery to minimize the cost. 

14K gold denotes 58.3% gold purity and it often comes stamped with 585. 

18k gold denotes 75.0% gold purity. 18K is highly recommended for fine jewellery. 

22K gold denotes 91.6% gold purity. Gold in 22K is very soft and is not suitable for manufacturing studded jewellery. It can be used for plain gold jewellery. 

24K gold denotes 100% gold purity. Gold in this form is extremely soft and cannot be used for any type of Jewellery making. 

The stamps only indicate the carat of metal and its purity. They do not indicate the colour of the metal. So for example an 18K yellow gold ring would have a stamp of 750 as would an 18kt white gold ring.

ColourThe colour of gold can be colour-toned depending on what metals it is alloyed with. Combining gold with various metals creates a diverse colour palette in which diamonds

and gemstones can be set in. Palladium and silver is mixed with gold to create White Gold, a metal colour that is gaining popularity among young couples who prefer the greyish lustrous appeal for their engagement rings or wedding bands. Given the wide spectrum of availability in colours, Yellow Gold still prospers with higher demand. The colour of gold matters the most when you’re choosing a diamond or gemstone to go with it. White Gold works best for diamonds of exceptionally high colour grade as yellow gold added yellow paleness to the diamond colour even if there isn’t any. It is ideal to set a diamond with visible yellow colour in Yellow gold as it helps make the diamond appear brighter. Most plain gold jewellery designs are given a two-tone effect for a contemporary and classy feel. White gold and yellow gold are paired together to create a beautiful and exquisite two-tone appearance.

Worth its weight in GoldEconomies have been underpinned by the value of gold. That just shows that this metal is held in high regard by all countries. Owning gold jewellery in form of gold bangles, gold rings and even gold earrings make for a great investment option. Many Indians prefer buying 24K gold coins over gold jewellery when they choose to invest in gold.

The price you ultimately pay for your gold jewels depends on the current market value, its purity, weight and of course the craftsmanship of the design.