When I think of gold, images of ancient Egyptians adorned with and surrounded by gold fill my mind. Not only a Hollywood storyline, but actual Persian, Egyptian, and Accadian rulers were documented to have used gold 3000 years ago. It was a naturally occurring alloy of silver and gold with a green hue. Frequently mistaken in drawings for emerald, electrum is also a reference used for amber.
The spectrum of gold colours ranges from white, yellow, and rose. Very rarely purple is recorded. All other vibrant colours are altered via alloy in smelting or coatings. For my taste, a pale rose gold engagement ring with a post-mounted cushion-cut diamond makes the diamond appear to levitate over my finger.
We know gold to be of a reddish-yellow hue with few naturally occurring variations. The word “gold” seems to be more of a reference to the material than a colour. The first reference to the element as “golden” coloured occurred in England in 1300 AD.
To confuse things further we use the word “gold” to describe something or a person. We use sayings such as “His hair is golden.” “Her friendship is like gold.” “That player is gold in that position.” We hold gold things in high value. Colour can stimulate evolutionary reactions in our minds. They can impact our moods and interest in products, places, or people.
When it comes to the price of gold; white, yellow, or rose are priced by the same value per gram. The questions you want to ask about gold jewellery shopping are;
- What is the purity? 24, 22,18, or 14k is irrelevant so long as you know what you are paying for. We all pay for higher quality. Be sure you get it.
- What is the current market value per gram? Keep things simple. Know how much to pay.
- Ask if adjustments are included. A mount may not look as good on your hand as you thought.
- You should already have a relationship with your jeweller, but that doesn’t guarantee any privileges. Be clear with buyback, return, or swapping policies. Maybe you want to trade up in the future.
- Does the jeweller operate with industry certifications from recognized regulatory organizations? There is no clear supply chain tracking all smelting. In a repeating sentiment, know what you are buying.
Whether you are buying gold as a gift, reward, fashion, bridal, or investment do your research. The smartest thing to do is develop a relationship with a jeweller. To find one, ask your family, friends, or work peers who they use and their experience.
The easiest way to build a relationship with the jeweller you pick is by taking your business to them. Use them for your research. Have them clean your old jewellery and assess its value. Tell them what you are interested in and your priorities.
I am no plumber. When I have a problem, I call professionals quickly. Are you a jeweller with experience, industry knowledge, and relationships? Call one.
