Gold Education
The gold jewelry and accessories that are available at Outlet Jeweler are made of beautiful 10k, 14k, 18k, 24k. From our collection, we have chosen classic designs created by some of the finest gold craftsmen. This guide will help you learn to identify quality in gold jewelry and gold accessories.

24 karat gold (24/24 = 100.0% gold) is very soft, increasingly susceptible to scratching, can easily lose its shape because it is so soft and wears away very easily with regular use; that is why 24 karats are rarely used to make earrings, chains, necklaces, bracelets, pendants and any other jewelry related item. 22 karat gold (22/24 = 91.7% gold) just like 24 karats also has poor stability, which makes it unsuitable to make jewelry.

When gold is mixed with certain alloys it is given strength, making it very durable and it still keeps it beauty. Popular alloys that offer improved strength and extended wear-ability are 18k (18/24 = 75.0%), 14k (14/24 = 58.3%), and 10k (10/24 = 41.7%). 18, 14, or 10 karat gold items may show evidence of slight variations in gold color from manufacturer to manufacturer due to differences in their gold alloy formulas.

Karat Marks 10K 14K 18K 24K

European Markings 417 585 750 999

Percent Pure Gold 41.7 58.5 75.0 99.9

The metals used in the alloying process include silver, copper, nickel, zinc, tin and manganese. The color of Gold is created by mixing in many different elements with gold to create a gold alloy with various colors. No matter which gold color is created, the pure gold is always present in the correct percentage. One color for example is the popular white gold. Mixing in nickel to give it a whiter appearance creates it.

Metals Color of Gold

Gold, Copper and Silver Yellow Gold

Gold, Platinum or Palladium

Zinc and copper White Gold

Gold, Silver, Copper and Zinc Green Gold

Gold, Copper and Silver Rose or “Pink” Gold

All jewelry is required by law to be stamped so consumers will know the quality of gold used. Jewelry made in North America is typically marked with the karat grade (10K, 14K, etc.)

Cleaning your Gold

Gold will develop a coating build up of oils from lotions, powders, soaps, and natural skin oils which will takes away from golds beauty. Chemicals in the air can slightly oxidize the gold depending on the karat grade used. Don't let your gold jewelry come in contact with chlorine bleach when you are doing household chores because it can damage jewelry over time. It will take some effort to keep your jewelry clean and presentable but here are four ways to do so:

The Cold Water and Ammonia Soak

Make a cup comprised of 50% cold water and 50% household ammonia. Soak the pieces for about 30 minutes. Then clean with an eyebrow brush or toothbrush. Its best if you can repeat this process one more time to assure that your jewelry is cleaned.

The Ultrasonic Cleaner

A Ultrasonic Cleaner is a small machine that will clean any piece of jewelry in a matter of minutes. There are many varieties of ultrasonic cleaners, but they all consist of a metal cup that is filled with water and detergent. When the machine is turned on, a high-frequency motion creates the cleaning action that will leave your jewelry spotless.

The Jewelry Cleaner Method

Buy a brand-name liquid jewelry cleaners found in many stores. Cleaning instructions will vary depending on the supplies, so read the label and follow its instructions carefully.

Detergent Wash

Use any liquid detergent found in your home for example dishwashing soap would be ideal and then prepare a small bowl of warm suds. Brush the pieces with a toothbrush while they are in the bath. Then transfer them to a wire tea strainer and rinse under warm running water. Then pat dry with something soft and lint-free.