Gold jewellery has not gone out of fashion, but has evolved, over the years. Women now have a choice between wearing the most delicate of jewellery, instead of the heavy gold ornaments our grandmothers used to wear. Gold is malleable, so it can easily be melted to take a different shape. The purer the gold, the better will be your knick knacks.

Gold is displayed in karats: 10, 12, 18, 22 and 24. The number signifies the purity. For example, 18k would mean it is comprised of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metal. 24k is considered to be the purest form of gold, without any contamination. The higher the purity, the more expensive the gold will be. Whenever you buy jewellery, always ask for an authenticity certificate for the gold.

Gold jewellery is very versatile. It can be made with insets if stones, diamonds or kundan, or just simple gold. However, one must check on the quality of stones used. Gold plated jewellery is another popular form of ornaments, but the coating generally tends to wear off with frequent use, giving your jewellery a tarnished look.

Gold can be molded into a variety of ornaments ? necklaces, bangles, earrings, and rings. Gold rings are extremely popular among both men and women. Gold bands are a symbol of commitment and are bought by newly married couples. They are also ideal for gifts on festivals and occasions. The purity of gold is marked on the inner surface of the ring.

is a favorite with people as it is wearer friendly and doesn't cause any skin allergies. Unlike other metals, pure gold doesn't react with other elements, so your jewellery will never look old or faded. Besides, gold can be designed into any desired shape, no matter how thin, without losing out on strength. Just one ounce of gold can be flattened out to a very thin sheet of ten feet square. This is why it is the preferred metal for any jeweler.

Sometimes, other metals are mixed with gold to alter the color. For instance, white gold is created by mixing a small percentage of palladium to yellow gold. Silver mixed with yellow gold gives it a greenish tinge, while copper gives a rose color to the gold. Besides, mixing also helps reduce the cost of gold and make it more durable.

When Gold Is Used as a Coating
There are many ways to mechanically apply a coating of gold onto a much less expensive metal, reducing the item's cost. The thicker the layer of gold, the less likely it is to wear away easily and expose the metal underneath.

Gold Filled Jewelry
Newer gold filled items have markings that indicate how much and what type of gold was used for the layer. A marking that says 1/20 12K G.F. means that the jewelry is at least 1/20th 12K gold by weight.

Gold Plated Jewelry
The gold layer in gold plated jewelry is typically thinner than the gold in gold filled jewelry, so it usually wears away more quickly. Plating is done in different ways.

You might see terms such as gold washed used to describe a very thin layer of gold--one that won't be very durable.

So What Should You Buy?
Solid gold is durable, so it is a better choice for jewelry you'll wear regularly. If you have allergies to nickel or other metals, choose items that have high gold content, such as 18K or 22K gold jewelry.

Gold filled or plated is suitable for jewelry that you wear occasionally. Everyday use would eventually diminish the gold layer, exposing the metal below, which might stain your skin or cause an allergic reaction.

For pieces that will last a lifetime and beyond, buy the highest quality gold your budget allows.