Gold mixed with other metals could make allergic reaction in to some people, but most of the time pure gold in most cases is safe. The good idea is to know if the person that will receive your gift could have some allergic reaction and if that is the case alternative to gold could be platinum.

Gold can be shaped almost in to any shape so it can represent anything from simple shapes to most detail sculpture.

Gold have its purity and it can be 24K 18K 14K 12K or 10K, where K is karat, it explain what is the gold purity in given gold jewelry piece. The gold purity will differ in chemical consistence and color. Some people will prefer less pure gold just because of its color. Twenty four (24K) is the purest form of gold so it also mean that the price will be the highest. 18K is next grade below where seventy five percent (75%) is the pure gold rest is additional material. Next would be 14K where pure gold is 58.3%. 12K contains 50% of pure gold and the lowest is 10K where pure gold is only 41.7%. In United States 10K is the lowest grade of gold that can be called Gold.

Gold is mixed purposely with other metals so it will make it stronger. Pure gold is very soft and can be bent easily. By adding other materials you can change gold color, for example adding palladium or nickel will make gold white, adding cooper will make it pink and silver will make it greenish.

Some jewelry pieces can be termed as gold plated, what it means is some less expensive materials can be coated mechanically with gold. The thickness will determine the durability of coat.

How to decide on gold?

Choose gold with more purity they will keep they value longer. Gold plated items will eventually wear off but are more affordable so you can wear them time to time not really good for everyday use.

Jewelry often come with gemstones, that can be precious gemstones like emerald ruby or sapphire, semiprecious gems like amethyst, citrine, topaz, quartz and many more or with diamonds. More expensive gemstone can be found in 24K or 18K gold. Semiprecious gemstones are most of the time set with 14, 12 or 10K gold or other materials like silver.

There are many reason, occasion or religion specification on what gemstone to choose. Most precious and expensive one is of course diamond and most of the time it is chose as engagement, anniversary and wedding also as side stone for other gemstone. Many people like to choose their birthstone to wear on daily bases. If you don't know each month of the year have some gemstone assigned to it and it bring particular fortune.

Designers more often choose large semiprecious stones that can showcase person confidence or be just a fashion trend. Of course gemstone selection should be appropriate for the occasion, diamonds are most expensive and should be given for important occasion like engagements, weddings. Precious gemstones are still expensive but more affordable the diamonds and can be given on occasions like anniversary and birthday. Semiprecious gems are the most affordable from all of them and gen be a gift for any day or smaller occasions but still would be appreciated.