The Enduring Choice for Fine Jewellery
Pure gold is too soft for everyday jewellery — it bends, scratches, and deforms under normal wear. Alloying gold with other metals solves this. The result is a metal that holds its shape, takes a fine finish, accepts detailed setting work, and still carries the warmth and colour that has made gold the default choice for fine jewellery for thousands of years.
Sara works predominantly in 18ct gold for fine jewellery commissions. At 75% pure gold, 18ct sits at the ideal point between richness, durability, and workability. It's the standard used by the majority of high-end jewellers and what Sara recommends for engagement rings, remodelling projects, and any piece intended for regular wear.
9ct gold (37.5% pure) is a practical option for pieces where durability matters more than colour saturation, or where budget is a primary consideration. Sara can work in 9ct on request, and will advise honestly on where the trade-offs lie.
Ready to commission a gold piece? Sara has sample rings in all three gold colours at the Kiama studio — bring your ideas or start from scratch.
Book a ConsultationYellow, White & Rose: Choosing the Right Tone
The colour of gold is determined by the metals it is alloyed with. Each combination produces a distinct look and suits different stones, skin tones, and personal aesthetics.
Yellow Gold
The most classic form. Warm, rich, and immediately recognisable. 18ct yellow gold suits ruby, emerald, citrine, yellow sapphire, and most coloured stones beautifully. It also pairs well with diamonds, particularly warmer-graded stones where the contrast against white gold might be unflattering.
White Gold
Yellow gold alloyed with white metals (typically palladium) and finished with a rhodium plating. The result is a bright, crisp white that suits diamonds, blue sapphires, aquamarines, and most coloured stones. The rhodium plating will wear over time and may need refreshing every few years — a simple, inexpensive process.
Rose Gold
Gold alloyed with copper, producing a warm blush tone. Rose gold has become increasingly popular over the last decade and suits morganite, pink tourmaline, rubellite, peach sapphire, and champagne diamonds particularly well. It also tends to flatter warm and olive skin tones.
Understanding Gold Karats
Karat (ct) measures the purity of gold — how much of the alloy is actually gold. In Australia, hallmarked gold jewellery is sold in three primary karats:
| Karat | Gold Content | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24ct | 99.9% pure | Bullion and investment only — too soft for jewellery |
| 18ct | 75% pure | Fine jewellery, engagement rings, heirloom pieces |
| 14ct | 58.3% pure | Good durability; common in US-made jewellery |
| 9ct | 37.5% pure | Budget-friendly; more durable but cooler in colour |
Sara works in 18ct as her standard and recommends it for any piece that will be worn regularly. She can advise on 9ct alternatives where budget or practicality makes it the better choice.
Giving Old Gold a New Life
One of the most compelling things about gold is that it can be melted down and reused without any loss of quality. If you have inherited pieces you're not wearing — a grandmother's rings, a collection of old chains, mismatched earrings — Sara can assess them, weigh them, and credit the gold toward a new commission.
This is both cost-effective and meaningful. The metal that carried sentimental value in one form continues in another. Sara has remodelled everything from a single signet ring into a modern band to three inherited rings combined into one. The process is one of the most rewarding services the studio offers.
You can learn more about the full jewellery remodelling process here.
Choosing the Right Gold Colour for Your Stone
Choosing the right gold colour for a specific stone is one of the most impactful decisions in jewellery design. Sara considers the stone's hue, saturation, and undertones when recommending a metal — and always shows clients options in person where possible.
As a general principle: yellow gold amplifies warm tones and adds richness to deep-coloured stones. White gold or platinum creates contrast and makes pale or cool-toned stones appear brighter. Rose gold adds a romantic warmth and works especially well with pink and peachy stones.
These are principles, not rules. Sara has paired white sapphires with yellow gold and blue diamonds with rose gold to striking effect. The right combination depends entirely on the individual stone and the intended aesthetic.
Caring for Your Gold Jewellery
- Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush — a dedicated jewellery brush or an old toothbrush works well
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth
- Avoid bleach, chlorine, and harsh chemicals, which can damage alloys
- Remove gold jewellery before swimming, heavy cleaning, or using hand sanitiser frequently
- Store each piece separately to prevent scratching — soft pouches or a lined jewellery box work best
- White gold benefits from professional rhodium re-plating every two to four years, depending on wear
- Book an annual check with Sara to inspect settings and address any wear before it becomes a problem
