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Gold Gold is a rare, soft, and very valuable metal. It is based on a karat (K) system where 24K gold is pure gold, and 14K gold is 14 parts gold with 10 parts alloy. Karat values higher and lower such as 10K and 18K correspond to parts karat + parts alloy = 24 value. The higher the karat the heavier, softer, and more expensive the item will be. Generally, Ireland prefers jewelry manufactured in 10K, America prefers 14K, Italy & South America prefer 18K, Arabic countries prefer 21K, and the Orient prefers 24K jewelry. Be reminded that gold is soft and easily scratches, use only recommended products to clean your jewelry. With that said here are some tips to remember when caring for gold jewelry: · Be wary of makeup and chemicals that may affect your gold jewelry's appearance. · Clean gold occasionally with recommended substances for a bright appealing look. · Tarnish may be cleaned from a piece of jewelry using either commercial cleaners or soap and water mixed with a few drops of ammonia.. ·
Greasy film from body oils, sun tan lotion, food preparation etc. can be reduced/removed from karat gold jewelry by dipping the jewelry in plain rubbing alcohol or vodka. ·
In addition to a chamois cloth, a rouge cloth can be used to polish karat gold jewelry. The use of a rouge cloth by someone other than a professional, however, may damage the finish, particularly if the piece has an electroplated finish.
· Keep gold jewelry out of swimming pools with chlorine; chlorine can damage it over a period of time. · Check your gold jewelry for scratches or other damage Pay special attention to the securing mechanism of bracelets and necklaces. If in doubt bring it to your jeweler for adjustment or repair.
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