Rose Gold Vs Yellow Gold: The Difference Between Both

Over the past decade, rose gold engagement rings has significantly surged in popularity, captivating hearts with its unique pinkish hue. A very pretty and whimsical colour for jewellery making, it inspires romance across generations and is fast becoming just as classic as its yellow gold counterpart.

What is rose gold?

To know what rose gold is, you must first know how pure gold, a natural element found within the earth, is transformed into a material suitable for jewellery making. Pure gold as it is mined, is a soft material not suitable for long-term wear in a jewellery piece. By combining other metals with pure gold, a gold alloy is created resulting in a material that can be used to make refined and quality jewellery pieces, with strength in the setting and design elements, is more resistant to dents and scratches, and that is more affordable. By selecting different coloured metals to add to the pure gold, experienced jewellers can change the colour of the gold, or retain its traditional yellow colour. Hence creating rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold variants. The ratio of pure gold to other metals in the alloy mix will determine the karat quality of the metal.

A key distinction between rose gold and yellow gold lies in the metals chosen to mix with pure gold to create the desired colour. Rose gold is created by mixing primarily copper with pure gold, resulting in a beautiful blend of rosy hues. The higher the copper content in the alloy, the more pronounced the rosy tint of the final metal will be.

Historically, crown gold, which contains 22-karat rose gold, was commonly used to make gold coins and currency. This type of rose gold imparts a warmer yellow tone to the metal. Contrasting this with the very pink hues of modern rose gold alloys demonstrates the wide spectrum of colours achievable with this versatile metal.

Custom Engagement rings and even men’s wedding bands are now frequently adorned with this lovely pink gold, becoming the favoured option for many. The origins of rose gold trace back to the 19th century in Russia when the renowned jeweller Carl Faberge showcased the metal in his exquisite Faberge Eggs. Over time, its allure has only amplified, making it a timeless and cherished choice for jewellery wearers worldwide.

Advantages of Rose Gold

1. Flattering for All Skin Tones
   The pink tones of rose gold help enhance warmer skin tones, while also complimenting cooler undertones.
2. Highly Durable
   Heavier than many, the copper alloy makes for a stronger alloy compared to yellow or white gold. A great advantage of this is that rose gold can be very versatile and wearable every day.
3. It’s Affordable
   Rose gold is available in a range of karat qualities and does not need ongoing rhodium plating like white gold, so there are many affordable choices within the rose gold family.

Disadvantages of Rose Gold

1. Rose Gold is not Hypoallergenic
   Expert tip: For those who have sensitive skin, rose gold might not be the best option as it contains high levels of copper, which might cause allergic reactions to sensitive skin.
2. Rose Gold is Less known
   Although nowadays, you may seem to see rose gold everywhere, it is still not as commonly known as white or yellow gold.

What is yellow gold?

Yellow gold is a classic and timeless option for jewellery. Contrary to the gleaming image of Fort Knox gold bricks, yellow gold is a mix of pure gold and a combination of white metals and copper. As a result, it exudes a warm and luxurious appearance, perfect for any jewellery piece.

The allure of yellow gold lies in its traditional representation of wealth and status, evoking a sense of luxury and elegance. This metal has been cherished throughout history and continues to be a beloved choice for those seeking timeless sophistication in their jewellery pieces.

Advantages of Yellow Gold

1. Flattering on Warmer Skin Tones
   For those who have olive or darker skin tones, yellow gold is perfect for you!
2. Yellow Gold is Hypoallergenic
   Yellow gold which does not usually contain high levels of nickel, is more hypoallergenic and a good option for sensitive skin.
3. Purest Gold Colour
   Considered a classic, yellow gold has the most authentic appearance and is distinctive in its appeal. It cannot be mistaken for anything else!
4. Compliments and Elevates Lower-grade Diamonds.
   Yellow gold enhances the beauty of all gemstones, including diamonds, imparting a heightened sense of elegance to your jewellery.

Check out the Monty Adams website for alternatives to yellow gold, or to find out more click the link here.

Rose Gold Vs Yellow Gold Alloy

Rose gold and yellow gold have more in common than they have in competition with each other. These two metals are interchangeable in terms of affordability, karat purity, strength, and surface durability. Both have a warm and luxurious appeal. Your personal preference, skin tone and complementing the gemstone choices are the main things to consider when selecting which one is right for you. At Monty Adams we are experienced in working with all gold colours so you can feel confident whichever you choose, will be made with the utmost quality and care.

Is Rose Gold Cheaper than Yellow Gold

The price of gold jewellery is determined by the actual gold content in the ring and is measured in karats. As the karat value increases, so does the purity of the gold and, consequently, the cost of the jewellery. For instance:

• 24k gold is 100% pure gold.
• 18k gold is 75% pure gold.
• 14k gold is 58.3% pure gold.
• 9k gold is 37.5% pure gold.

Planning your budget range based on the desired karat value is essential. Both yellow and rose gold share similar properties, and their colour choice doesn’t significantly impact the price. So, you can freely choose between them based on your preference without worrying about price differences. At Monty Adams, we can provide jewellery advice inclusive of all budgets.

Does Rose Gold Tarnish Quicker than Yellow and White Gold

Rose gold, especially lower karat alloys, is more prone to tarnish due to the increased levels of copper. This is a natural oxidisation process evident over time with typical wear. The higher the karat, or gold purity, the less likely the item will tarnish. Polishing the surface of your rose gold will restore it to its full potential. This is why Monty Adams Jewellery provides a guarantee complete with repair services that will keep your jewellery in tip-top shape.

White gold, on the other hand, is usually plated with a fine layer of rhodium which doesn’t tarnish.

Does Rose Gold Cause Allergies Compared to Yellow and White Gold

The golden rule is that the higher the gold content is, the less likely it is to cause allergic reactions. When comparing yellow, rose, and white gold, yellow gold is considered the most hypoallergenic.

Expert tip: If you have sensitive skin, and are prone to reactions, you might want to stay away from rose gold and consider yellow or white gold instead.

Which Gold Fits My Skin Type Best

The versatile pink tint of rose gold offers a vibrant appeal for warm tones while displaying a more subdued charm for cooler ones. On the other hand, yellow gold is well suited to warmer skin tones and can occasionally appear unflattering on fair skin, making rose gold an attractive and popular alternative.

Interestingly, rose gold and yellow gold get along famously, as they both share copper in their composition, allowing them to complement each other effortlessly. Different gold-tone jewellery is commonly stacked together, adding a touch of elegance to your style.

Our Golden Thoughts

The choice between rose gold or yellow gold is ultimately dependent on your personal preference and needs. Every jewellery piece made by Monty Adams is expertly custom-designed with the client’s preferences at the forefront to ensure they are presented with a piece that fits their style and budget perfectly.

As an award-winning jeweller, our team of friendly jewellery concierges can assist you in creating your own custom engagement rings Melbourne, custom engagement rings Sydney or in Brisbane; incorporating any ideas, pictures, budget or other design inspiration you bring with you to your appointment. Monty Adams Jewellery Concierge are the experts in bringing dream unique engagement rings into reality. Consider it luxury within a budget! Our team of experts are ready to help with the flexibility of any time and location of your choice.

Book an Appointment Today!