A fabric designation signifies {that a} base metallic, usually brass or copper, has been mechanically bonded with a layer of gold. This differs considerably from a development the place your entire piece consists of gold all through. The thickness and karat of the gold layer within the former decide its worth and sturdiness. For instance, a chunk marked “1/20 14K GF” signifies that one-twentieth of the merchandise’s weight is 14 karat gold, which is bonded to the underlying metallic.
The selection between these two choices usually balances cost-effectiveness and longevity. The previous supplies a extra inexpensive various to pure gold, permitting for wider accessibility to gold jewellery. Traditionally, the strategy of bonding gold to base metals has been employed to create sturdy and engaging items with out the excessive value related to stable gold objects, thus democratizing entry to aesthetically pleasing jewellery.