The Rich History of Gold Jewellery
Gold was once used as the main standard for monetary exchange internationally. Gold is bought and sold daily, whether in the form of gold bars, coins, or jewellery. Slaves have mined for gold and palaces have had walls adorned with or created from gold. Incans referred to gold as 'tears of the Sun'. It was only fitting that when the Spanish conquistador, Pizarro, took the Incan ruler Atahualpa hostage, he and his people as a condition of his release proffered a room filled with gold and silver. A more notable example of gold’s value today are the actors and actresses walking red carpets worldwide with beautiful gold jewellery around their wrists, necks, arms, on their ears, clothing and even feet.
Gold's purity is measured in karat form, with 24 karat being the purest. Gold jewellery can run from as little as 8 karats, the minimum karat being determined by country. Alloys are added to gold to give it different colors. What is seen normally are white and rose gold, but some of the more unusual pieces are colored green, purple, and even black. Gold’s value is increased by the fact that it does not corrode, nor does it tarnish. About 67 percent of gold jewellery is made from newly mined sources, whereas the rest is made from bullion and/or scrap gold.
Because of its malleability, gold takes on many shapes when formed into jewellery. Gold can be fashioned into necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. The pieces come in varying sizes, karats, colors and designs. Gold is combined with gems and other metals to create fascinating jewellery pieces. Ancient Egypt saw pieces of gold jewellery in the form of headwear, chest pieces, collars and burial mask, such as the one worn by King Tut.
When searching for the right jewellery, personal style and choice of event should combine as an indicator. A plain gold band represents something different that heavy gold hoops and a dangling chain. Gold can be flashy, but it is also demure in its beauty. Gold jewellery can be bought in store or online, but before purchasing, it is important that one knows their dealer. Check any ratings or reviews a gold dealer has before making a buy. The return policy and costs for sizing may also influence a purchase, so read the fine print. Take good care of gold, as it is an investment that lasts a lifetime.