Argent sterling et alliages d'or

Sterling silver and gold alloys

Everything you need to know about 925 sterling silver and the different gold alloys

In this article I will explain what 925 sterling silver is, a material I use frequently, as well as the different gold alloys.

  1. What is 925 sterling silver?

925 sterling silver is one of the most sought-after metals in the jewelry world. It is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This addition of copper strengthens the silver, a naturally soft metal, while maintaining its characteristic beauty and luster.

  • Why 925? The number "925" refers to the percentage of pure silver in the alloy. This guarantees that the jewelry contains at least 92.5% fine silver, an internationally recognized standard for silver quality.
  • The Benefits of 925 Sterling Silver: This alloy is prized for its durability, shine, and ability to be worked into intricate designs. It is an ideal choice for those looking for elegant and affordable jewelry. Additionally, 925 sterling silver holds up well to daily wear and tear, although it may require regular maintenance to prevent tarnishing.
  1. The different gold alloys

Since pure gold (24 karat) is too soft to be used in jewelry, it is mixed with other metals to create stronger alloys. Here are the main gold alloys you may encounter:

  • 18-karat gold (750/1000): This alloy is composed of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals, such as copper, silver or palladium. 18-karat gold is one of the most widely used alloys in jewelry, as it combines the richness of gold with increased strength. It is valued for its intense golden color and durability, while remaining malleable enough to be worked into intricate designs.
  • 14 karat gold (585/1000): 58.5% pure gold, 41.5% other metals. Strong and more affordable, with a beautiful golden hue.
  • 9 carat gold (375/1000): 37.5% pure gold. Harder, less expensive, with a paler golden hue.
  1. Gold alloys of different colors

Depending on the metals added to the gold, it can come in a variety of colors, such as white gold, which is made by adding palladium or nickel for a lighter appearance, often plated with rhodium for added shine. Rose gold, on the other hand, is made by mixing pure gold with copper, giving it that warm, romantic hue. These color variations make it possible to create jewelry that fits different styles and preferences.

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