Gold fineness: how to choose pendant metal and gold fineness

Gold fineness: how to choose pendant metal and understand fineness

Why is it important to know the pendant metal?

When choosing a pendant, many first look at its design, however the type of precious metal and gold fineness are no less important. Gold fineness and metal determine the jewellery piece’s value, durability and colour. This determines the jewellery piece’s durability, aesthetics and suitability for sensitive skin.

What is pendant fineness and what does it mean?

Fineness is an indicator that specifies how much pure gold or other precious metal is in the alloy. It is expressed in parts per thousand: for example, a 585 fineness pendant means that out of 1000 parts, 585 is gold, and the remaining part is made up with other metals, such as silver, copper and nickel.

Gold colour: what is worth knowing?

Gold is not only yellow. Gold colour can be changed by adding different metals. White gold colour is obtained by mixing gold with other metals, such as silver, palladium or nickel. Yellow gold is classic, rose gold is obtained by adding more copper, and white gold – by mixing gold and nickel or palladium, often additionally rhodium plated. White and white gold articles are often rhodium plated, which provides additional shine and protects from oxidation. Colour difference does not affect gold fineness, but changes alloy properties and appearance. The composition of different alloys determines the final gold colour and properties.

Platinum in pendants: prestige and skin sensitivity

Platinum – one of the rarest precious metals, characterised by a naturally white colour and exceptional purity. It is not rhodium plated, like white gold, therefore it does not change colour over time. Furthermore, it is hypoallergenic, thus suited even for highly sensitive skin.

Fineness and pendant durability

Finenesses are directly related to the product’s strength. Even though 750 fineness pendants look impressive, they are softer and wear out faster. 585 fineness gold – a reliable choice for both aesthetics and durability.

What does the hallmark indicate?

Every pendant must be marked with a hallmark, which confirms the amount in the alloy of precious metal. Hallmarking is a process during which the precious metal amount in products is determined, and all products must be marked according to set standards. This is controlled by the Lithuanian Assay Office, following the regulations of the Republic of Lithuania precious metals and gemstones state supervision.

Which metal is suitable for everyday wear?

For everyday wear, 585 gold or platinum is ideally suited. Pendants of different finenesses differ in their resistance and durability. They are resistant to environmental impact, retain their appearance and do not cause allergies. 375 fineness pendants are cheaper, but their alloy wears out faster and may change colour.

How to choose a colour?

Colour is more of an aesthetics than a practice matter. Yellow gold, white or rose gold pendants match different skin tones and clothing styles. When choosing a colour, evaluate how it will look everyday and whether it will match with other jewellery pieces.

It is also worth mentioning that gold products can be of various colours and designs, depending on the alloy composition.

Is higher fineness always better?

Fineness is not the only criterion. Higher fineness means more pure gold. However, pure gold (999 or 999.99 fineness) is softer and less resistant than alloys with lower fineness, therefore stronger alloys are more often used for jewellery pieces. If the pendant will be worn frequently, choose 585 fineness.

Which metal to choose for sensitive skin?

If skin reacts to jewellery pieces, avoid nickel. The best choice is platinum or higher fineness white gold, if it is without nickel.

How important is the price?

The price depends on gold fineness, metal type and weight. 585 and 750 fineness pendants are more expensive than 375, but have a higher value and better lasting quality.

Does colour depend on fineness?

Gold colour depends on alloy mass and metal ratio, and not on the fineness itself. The colour of products depends on the alloy composition and the metals used. Thus rose, yellow or white gold can have the same fineness.

What to choose for special occasions?

For a gift or special occasion, choose gold fineness no less than 585 or platinum. It is important to note that a jewellery piece for a special occasion must be of high quality and exceptional design. Such jewellery pieces look luxurious, remain valuable and can be passed down as family heirlooms.

Fineness and gemstones

If there are gemstones in the pendant, it is important that the alloy is sufficiently strong. 585 gold alloy or platinum is perfectly suited to hold stones firmly in place.

It is also important to know that product quality depends on the alloy’s strength and fineness.

Pendant value retention

The long-term value of a pendant depends on fineness, weight and precious metal. Therefore it is worth investing in a higher quality product. It is also important to check and certify products to ensure their authenticity and quality.

Jewellery certification

All high-quality jewellery pieces must be marked with a hallmark and meet the standards of the Republic precious metals and gemstones state supervision. Certification confirms that the jewellery piece is gold and meets the set standards.

When choosing a pendant, it is important to take into account the gold fineness, metal properties and skin sensitivity. Properly chosen metal will ensure that the pendant will not only be beautiful, but also durable.

Also, when choosing gold it is important to take into account its fineness, certification and purchase only from reliable sources.