Choosing Your Perfect Metal

In South African jewellery, yellow gold is most commonly available in 18ct and 9ct. 18ct gold contains 75% pure gold, offering a rich, warm tone that reflects its higher gold content. 9ct gold, composed of 37.5% gold and strengthened with other metals, has a slightly lighter hue and offers a more practical and affordable option. Both are durable choices, with 18ct prized for its depth of colour and 9ct for its everyday resilience.

White gold is created by blending gold with white metals, resulting in a naturally pale tone. Because both 18ct and 9ct white gold retain a subtle warmth, they are typically finished with a layer of rhodium plating. This gives white gold its bright, reflective appearance. Over time, this plating may wear with regular use, but it can be professionally reapplied to restore its original brilliance.

Rose gold is distinguished by its soft, romantic hue, created by alloying gold with copper and small amounts of silver. The higher the copper content, the deeper the colour becomes. In 18ct rose gold, the composition is typically 75% gold with the remainder forming the alloy. The result is a durable and distinctive metal with a warm, contemporary appeal.

Platinum is renowned for its strength, purity, and enduring beauty. Unlike other metals, it does not wear away over time — instead, it displaces slightly, maintaining its weight and integrity. Most fine platinum jewellery is crafted from 95% pure platinum, making it one of the most premium choices available. Its naturally white colour will not fade, and its density makes it especially suited to securing precious stones.

Palladium is a naturally white metal belonging to the platinum group. It is lighter in weight than platinum while still offering excellent durability and resistance to tarnish. Palladium does not require rhodium plating, maintaining its colour over time. It is often used in fine jewellery as a standalone metal or as part of white gold alloys, offering a modern and practical alternative.