The Real Gem Guide to Precious Metals

Fine Jewellery Metals Explained: Gold vs Platinum & More

At The Real Gem, we believe your choice of metal matters just as much as the stone it holds. From the radiant glow of yellow gold to the modern finish of white gold and the enduring strength of platinum, each metal has unique properties that influence the look, feel, and longevity of your jewellery.

This guide explains the differences between precious metals especially gold vs platinum, the karat system in gold, and how to choose the best metal for your style and lifestyle.

Understanding Gold Karats: What's the Difference Between 9k, 14k, 18k & 24k?

Gold is a soft natural element, so it's alloyed with other metals to improve strength and colour. The karat (K) indicates the proportion of pure gold in the mixture.

Karat	Gold Purity	Common Composition	Description
24k	99.9%	Pure gold	Very soft and rich yellow; rarely used in jewellery
22k	91.7%	Gold + minimal alloys	Warm yellow colour; best for traditional jewellery
18k	75%	Gold + silver/copper/zinc mix	Industry standard for fine jewellery; rich colour and excellent durability
14k	58.5%	Lower gold content + more alloys	Slightly less vibrant; more resistant to scratches
9k	37.5%	9 parts gold + 15 parts other metals	Most affordable; durable but lighter in colour and value

💡 What is 18 karat gold? 18k gold is 75% pure gold and offers the best balance between luxury and everyday wear. It’s our standard at The Real Gem.

Platinum: The Premium Choice

Platinum is a dense, naturally white metal known for its strength and rarity. It’s considered the most luxurious metal for engagement rings and high-value jewellery.

95–98% pure in most jewellery
Hypoallergenic and tarnish-resistant
Heavier than gold
Doesn’t require rhodium plating

Best for: Diamond engagement rings, men’s bands, heirloom jewellery, and those with sensitive skin.

Our Standard: 18k Gold and Platinum

At The Real Gem, we craft all of our collections in either:

Solid 18k gold (white, yellow, or rose)
Platinum (950 grade)

We never use plated, vermeil, or filled metals only genuine solid gold or platinum.

White Gold

Bright, silvery finish, a great alternative to platinum
Rhodium-plated for extra shine and durability
May require occasional replating to maintain brilliance

Ideal for: Classic styles, bridal jewellery, and cool skin tones

Yellow Gold

Timeless and rich in colour
Complements rubies, emeralds, and traditional designs
Requires the least maintenance over time

Ideal for: Vintage-inspired jewellery, warm skin tones

Rose Gold

Romantic and contemporary
Warm, pinkish hue flatters all skin tones
Strong and durable thanks to copper alloys

Ideal for: Feminine styles, mixed-metal stacks, bespoke designs

Can I Customise My Metal?

Absolutely. While our jewellery is made in 18k gold or platinum as standard, we can create most pieces in:

9k gold – a more affordable, everyday option
14k gold – slightly less gold content but great durability
22k gold – richer colour, popular in cultural jewellery
Platinum – premium finish with exceptional longevity

To customise your jewellery:

Quote your SKU (found on each product page)
Or describe your idea via our bespoke enquiry form

Our team will guide you through the process and provide a tailored quote.

🔗 Contact Us or Start Your Bespoke Design

What’s the Best Metal for Engagement Rings?

Platinum: Ultimate durability and shine
18k White Gold: Timeless and slightly more affordable
18k Yellow or Rose Gold: Great for adding warmth or uniqueness

We’re here to help you make the right decision based on lifestyle, preference, and gemstone pairing.