Everything You Need To Know About 14k Gold
Most engagement rings are made of 14k gold. But what exactly is 14k gold? Pure gold is 24k, but it’s rare in jewelry because it’s so soft. That’s why it’s much more common for jewelers use 18k and 14k alloys. 14k is roughly 58% pure.
Compared to 24k and 18k gold, 14k is tougher and more durable. 14k yellow gold looks like pure gold; 14k rose gold has a strong pink hue; 14k white gold looks a lot like platinum. Read on as we explore everything you need to know about 14k gold.
14k gold - what is it?
14k gold is a gold alloy composed of about 58% pure gold mixed with other metals like silver, nickel, copper, and palladium. Compared with 18k that’s composed of 75% pure gold, 14k gold has a less pronounced yellow tone.
But since 14k contains less pure gold - which is soft - it’s also more durable than 18k gold. That makes 14k the most popular metal choice when it comes to engagement rings.
Yellow gold vs. white gold vs. rose gold
WHITE GOLD: versatile, but any diamond coloration is easy to see. The most popular choice for engagement rings.
YELLOW GOLD: warm, matches any skin tone and most styles. Hides center stone coloration well.
ROSE GOLD: romantic and sensitive, also hides center stone coloration well.
Keyzar offers 14k jewelry in yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. 14k yellow gold has the same golden hues as pure yellow gold, but just a little less pronounced. White gold contains metals with more white tones, like silver. It’s also plated with palladium for durability and whiteness, which gives it a platinum-like look.
Rose gold usually has added copper to create its signature rosy hue. Each color option is durable and beautiful. The exact type of 14k gold you choose for your ring depends on your personal style and center stone.
14k yellow gold
With the roaring return of 90s style and nostalgia, yellow gold is once again surging in popularity. Its muted golden tones make it more versatile than 18k yellow gold. The yellowness of 14k gold isn’t as intense as 18k gold, since its purity is lower, which is a more desirable look for some.
If simple, timeless jewelry is your thing, The Kamelie engagement ring setting is calling your name. This setting is a classic beauty in 14k gold, and lets your diamond or moissanite center stone take center stage. In 14k gold, the Solitaire Kamelie will also conceal any coloration your center stone may have - what’s not to love?
If you’re after more sparkle, try The Stacey on for size. Her pave diamond accent stones intertwine with a band of 14k yellow gold, creating a dazzling engagement ring with any center stone.
14k white gold
White gold ranks is the most popular choice for engagement and wedding rings. It complements all skin tones, and highlights your center stone thanks to its neutral color. White gold prongs are less visible against center stones, giving your diamond or moissanite a “floating” look.
White gold was born to be made into halo settings. Keyzar’s The Michelle looks radiant in white gold, featuring a pave band and a diamond halo that surrounds your center stone with sparkle.
For a classic solitaire look, The Nelly lets your center stone and white gold ring speak for themselves. In white gold, this setting pairs best with a high color grade diamond, or Keyzar’s colorless moissanite.
14k rose gold
The most romantic metal choice for an engagement ring, rose gold shines with a warm, pink hue that would pull on anyone’s heartstrings. Its unique color makes it an appealing choice, especially for those looking for something a little different. The copper in rose gold makes this metal the most durable of all three gold color options.
The darling, vintage look of our The Jasmine setting is complemented perfectly by 14k rose gold. Delicate pink tones bring out the beauty of this setting, and showcase your center stone in a romantic way. Another dreamy choice for a 14k rose gold setting is The Angelina. This setting is just as unique as rose gold itself, with pave diamonds swirling along the band.
Who should wear a 14k gold ring?
14k gold rings are popular and timeless pieces that will last a lifetime. However, 14k gold isn’t necessarily the right choice for everyone. Take a look at the categories below to see if a 14k gold ring makes sense for you and your lifestyle.
Heavy handiwork
If your job has you working with your hands and you want to wear your ring every day, 14k gold makes a solid choice. 14k gold is less pure than 18k gold, making it more durable and less prong to denting or scratching. A 14k gold ring is much more durable than 18k gold, so your chances of damaging it are much lower.
Since 14k gold rings rank higher in durability than 18k gold, they’re the best option for those whose work involves their hands. Those who live a particularly active lifestyle will reap the benefits of 14k gold and its durability, as well. Of course, if you’re doing something you know could be potentially damaging, it’s always best to remove your ring first.
Take it down a notch
While the vibrant yellow tone of an 18k gold ring is pretty, many people prefer a more toned down look. If you prefer a more understated shade of gold, a 14k gold ring may not be your best option. 14k gold engagement rings exhibit a more subtle, delicate golden hue that can be more appealing, depending on your taste.
Budget friendly
Since 14k gold doesn’t contain as much pure gold as 18k gold, it’s also less expensive. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option for your engagement ring, opting for 14k gold will save you some money.
Who shouldn’t wear a 14k gold ring?
While 14k gold rings are durable and pretty, they’re not the right choice for everyone. If you find yourself nodding your head at any of the points below, an option like 18k gold might be better for you.
Sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin or have shown signs of metal allergies in the past, be careful when choosing 14k gold. 14k gold contains less pure gold and a higher percentage of other metals. So if you have an allergy to one of those metals, a 14k gold ring can trigger a reaction. 18 gold is less likely to cause a reaction, making it a better choice for those with allergies or sensitive skin.
Look Ma, no hands!
If you don’t work with your hands and your ring won’t be in situations that could cause damage, you can opt for a ring with higher gold content than 14k gold. 14k gold rings are often a top choice thanks to their durability. But if you’re not worried about durability, you may want to choose an 18k gold ring that has a higher percentage of pure gold.
Golden girls
Let’s face it - you know whether you prefer the rich, yellow tones of 18k gold over the more subtle warmth of 14k gold. If the paler tones of 14k gold just don’t do it for you, you’d probably be happier with an 18k gold ring.
14k gold has a more understated look, while 18k gold appears close to pure gold. So if you’re after a “pure gold” look, 14k gold might just not cut it.
Does 14k gold tarnish?
14k gold rings are durable and will shine brightly for a lifetime. 14k gold tends not to tarnish, especially with regular cleaning and common sense care. We recommend a professional cleaning at least yearly, which Keyzar offers for free, so you can keep your ring looking bright and brilliant.
Conclusion
From the subtle shine of yellow gold to the pink tones of rose gold, 14k gold rings offer durability as well as an array of color options. 14k gold engagement rings make beautiful pieces that you can wear comfortably every day for the rest of your life. For those who love the look of 14k gold, you just can’t beat this metal’s durability and beauty. Take a look at Keyzar’s selection of 14k gold engagement rings here…
