What Is Rose Gold? A Brief History and Description

August Engagement Ring and Amelie

Rose gold is a blend, or an alloy of pure 24 karat yellow gold, copper and silver. Pure 24 karat yellow gold is the base for all gold colors and qualities, but is too soft to be used in a pure state for jewelry. It needs to be blended, or alloyed with other metals to strengthen it enough to wear. Different alloy recipes are used to color and determine all types of metal made into jewelry including platinum, white gold, yellow gold and rose gold. 

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The depth of color in the rose gold depends on the ratio of yellow gold to copper. Less yellow gold , and a higher copper content will result in a more reddish rose color. As an example 14K rose gold is more of a rose pink color than 18K rose gold due to the higher yellow gold content in 18K. To create our lush red gold color known as rose or red gold, our 14 karat yellow gold is an alloy of 58.30% 24k yellow gold, 33.5% copper and 8.20% percent silver. Our 18 karat rose gold is a the color of a soft champagne rose, with gold undertones as the alloy is 75% 24k yellow gold, 22.2% copper and 2.8% silver.

Rose gold was first used in early 19th century Russia by the famed jeweler Carl Faberge in his famous Faberge Eggs, as was known as Russian Gold. Rose gold later gained popularity in the United States during the lavish and feminine 1920’s, and was worn in engagement rings and fine jewelry. Cartier was instrumental in the rise in popularity creating luscious rose gold, fine jewelry with precious gemstones and diamonds. One piece in particular aided in the rebirth of rose gold in jewelry, a simple band of three gold colors of gold intertwined now known as the “Trinity Ring”. Created by Cartier and commissioned by Jean Cocteau, famed French writer, artist, filmmaker, and playwright and who infamously wore the Cartier ring on his pinkie. Over the decades the popularity of rose gold has come and gone, dictated mostly by fashion and starlets. Today rose gold has once again taken its rightful place in the style sections of your favorite magazines, on the hands of trend setters and you my future brides.

Rose gold is a subtle, romantic color of gold that translates into romantic, elegant fine jewelry and engagement rings. We love creating designs in rose gold, and look forward to creating the perfect rose gold engagement ring, or fine jewelry piece for you!

Shown from top right: Calla Brilliant Cut Engagement Ring, Heather Brilliant Cut Split Band Engagement Ring, Chelsea Wedding Band, Iryna Drop Earrings, Bailey Charm Bracelet and Mayfair Emerald Cut Gemstone Necklace