Gold jewelry has been traced back to 4400 BC, and may have been crafted and worn even earlier. Ancient gold jewelry was discovered by archeologists in Bulgaria, where they found hundreds of pieces belonging to the Thracian era. And, the casting process still used today - pouring molten gold into a mold to create objects - was used by Ancient Egyptians. Softer than other metals, gold is easier to shape and mold. Its resistance to tarnishing and rusting means it can last, essentially forever. Revered for its rarity and beauty among ancient cultures, gold jewelry was worn by the noble, the royal, or the rich, becoming a nearly universal status of rank and wealth.

Even after becoming more widely accessible to the public, gold is still viewed as a symbol of luxury. However, most people own at least one piece of gold jewelry since it is now mixed with other elements. While ancient civilizations utilized it in its pure form, resulting in exclusively yellow gold jewelry, today’s jewelers introduce other metals and alloys to create more diverse and unique results. White gold has no copper. Rose gold is created by increasing the amount of copper. Depending on what additional elements are added, the results range from a warm yellow to a rich rose, to a cool white. 

Whatever shade your pieces might be, they deserve to be loved and respected. When you give your gold jewelry a little extra attention it will glimmer and glow against your skin, making you feel great and look great! 

Here are a few easy-to-remember DO’S and DON’TS to help keep it looking as beautiful as the day it entered your life.

DO KEEP IT CLEAN

Regular cleaning will keep your prized pieces shimmering. Use a mild soap and water solution, a light touch, and always dry each piece using a soft jewelry cloth.

DO BE GENTLE

A soft metal by nature, gold can be easily scratched or dented. Rings and bracelets are most susceptible. Try to remove these pieces before participating in any activity that causes a lot of wear.

DO BABY IT A BIT

If possible, swaddle each piece in a soft cloth when not wearing. Or look for a jewelry case with small compartments to keep your jewelry separated, preventing any scratching.

DON'T FORGET TO INSPECT IT

Normal wear and tear can lead to weaknesses in the most vulnerable parts of your gold jewelry. Take the time to inspect clasps, gemstone settings (prongs), and pins.

DON'T EXPOSE IT TO ITS WORST ENEMY

Avoid all contact with chlorine, as well as household cleaners. These can weaken the gold and lead to a breakage. Remove your pieces before getting in a pool or spa.

DON'T GIVE IT A MAKEOVER

Makeup, perfume, hairspray or gel, and lotions can damage your gold. It doesn't need any of these products to look amazing. So put your jewelry on after using any of those items to limit exposure.

 Whatever shade or shape, yellow, rose, white, rings, earrings, bracelets or cuffs, pendants, necklaces, belt buckles, hatbands, or cufflinks, hammered, linked, or paired with precious and semi-precious stones, you're sure to find just the right new piece as a gift, or for yourself, at Sorrel Sky Gallery.