Showcase Jewellers Guide: World of Gold Brochure

The colour of pure gold is yellow. But when other metals are added, a number
of subtle colour tints can be achieved. For instance, Rose gold is a blend of
gold and copper. White gold is a blend of gold, silver and palladium.
White Gold is actually a dull yellow so as an industry standard, White gold
is rhodium plated to form a strong, high shine protective bond however to
maintain it’s lustre, needs to be re-plated occasionally. Talk to your local
Showcase Jeweller about re-plating your white gold jewellery.
You may find other markings on your jewellery as well. These may be the
manufacturer’s trademark, logo or initials. If you require any help deciphering
the markings, your Showcase Jeweller will be happy to explain them to you.
Other Precious Metals
Platinum
Platinum is one of the strongest precious metals. It has an intense silverywhite
luster which wears beautifully and enhances diamonds and other
stones that are set into it. Scratches and other metallic blemish spots can be
polished off. Platinum is also remarkably heavy – much more so than silver and
gold. Platinum jewellery, in particular rings, are more difficult to re-size than
other precious metals, due to the great amount of heat required to work with
platinum. Platinum jewellery is generslly stamped PLAT, PT, PT900, PT950.
Palladium
Palladium is a white and bright precious metal that, like platinum, is
hypoallergenic and durable. However, palladium is nearly half the density
of platinum (making it a more economic alternative to platinum) and is more
malleable, making it easier to work with.