Rose gold is a precious metal with a distinctive, rosy glow. Sometimes referred to as red gold or pink gold, rose gold gains its unique hue from the presence of copper, which is added to yellow gold to lend it an attractive, reddish tone. Rose gold was especially popular during the Victorian era, and is experiencing a surge in popularity today. It is used to fashion various types and components of jewelry, as well as other decorative objects.
Rose Gold Rings
Rose gold is commonly used to fashion rings of all shapes and styles, including wedding and engagement rings, gemstone-embellished right-hand rings, and simple, thin bands. Rose gold rings range from 10 karat gold to 18 karat gold; the lower the karat, the more rosy the gold will be, as this indicates a greater quantity of copper in the alloy.
Rose Gold Pendants
Many pendants are made with rose gold. Pendants are pieces of jewelry that are traditionally suspended from a necklace chain or cord. Rose gold pendants come in an assortment of shapes, sizes and styles, including everything from dainty discs to bold hearts. As is the case with rose gold rings, rose gold pendants range from 10 karat gold to 18 karat gold.
Rose Gold Jewelry Components
Various other jewelry components are made with rose gold. These include necklace chains of varying lengths and thicknesses; earring wires, earring posts and earring backs; mountings for rings; bracelet bangles, links and chains; and clasps for necklaces and bracelets. These jewelry components may be combined with gemstones, with pearls or with other precious metals, such as silver and platinum. They may also be combined with other rose gold components. Rose gold rings, pendants and other jewelry components are made by either fabricating or casting; fabricating means assembling and joining the various components by hand, while casting means pouring molten rose gold into a form.
Other Rose Gold Objects
Throughout history, all types of decorative objects have been fashioned with rose gold, including everything from plates and vases to picture frames and wall hangings. In addition to purely decorative objects, many functional objects are made with rose gold. These include such items as cigarette lighters, watches and fountain pens.
References
- "Treasures in Gold: Masterpieces of Jewelry from Antiquity to Modern Times"; Gianni Guadalupi, 2008.
- All About Gemstones: Precious Metals, Pink or Rose Gold Jewelry
