Why We Only Use 14k/18k Solid Gold?
Journal

Why We Only Use 14k/18k Solid Gold?

We believe that jewelry should be more than just beautiful—it should be made to last.

What Does “Solid Gold” Actually Mean?

When we say solid gold, we mean that the entire piece—whether it’s a ring band, a chain, or a bezel—is made from a gold alloy throughout. This is different from:

  • Gold plated jewelry – a thin layer of gold over a base metal like brass or stainless steel, which wears off over time.
  • Gold filled jewelry – a thicker layer than plating, but still bonded to a non-gold core.
  • Vermeil – sterling silver plated with gold, often with a minimum thickness requirement.

Only solid gold offers permanent value, true durability, and heirloom potential.

Why We Use 14k and 18k Solid Gold

At PETRALO, we choose to craft our jewelry using 14k and 18k solid gold because they offer the ideal balance of luxury, strength, and practicality.

  • 14k gold contains 58.5% pure gold, blended with durable metals that make it highly resistant to scratching, bending, and everyday wear. It’s perfect for daily pieces like rings and bracelets that need to stand the test of time.

  • 18k gold contains 75% pure gold, offering a richer, warmer hue while still maintaining the strength needed for secure stone settings and long-term durability.

Both options ensure that your jewelry doesn’t just look exquisite—it’s also built to last. Whether you're drawn to the soft glow of 18k or the versatility of 14k, you can trust that every piece we create is made with longevity and elegance in mind.

Why Pure Gold Isn’t Enough

Pure gold is 24 karats (24k), meaning it's 100% gold. While valuable, it's also extremely soft and easily bent, making it unsuitable for everyday jewelry or securely holding gemstones.

To improve strength and wearability, gold is alloyed with harder metals like silver, copper, or zinc, creating stronger gold types like 14k and 18k—perfect for long-lasting fine jewelry.

We choose solid gold because we want our jewelry to reflect what truly matters: beauty, craftsmanship, and longevity.

Solid vs Other Gold Types Sapphire Solitaire Ring Diamond Heart Necklace
Previous
Jewelry Care Guide:Wear, Storage and Clean
Next
14k vs 18k Gold: Which One Is Right for You?