Understanding the Different Types of Gold That Exist Today

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Did you know that not all gold is the same?

As one of the most sought-after metals in the world, gold is surprisingly misunderstood! Most people think that there’s just one type; gold.

But, these people are wrong. When buying gold, you should be aware of the different types available to make sure you get exactly what you’re looking for.

Find out more about the types of gold in this guide.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold (and yellow gold alloys) is the most popular and well-known type of gold. This is the natural, pure form of the coveted metal, making it the best gold if you’re looking for an investment. If you’re buying a combo crate of gold and silver, you can expect to receive pure yellow gold. 

 

Gold Alloys

Gold alloys are more common when buying items like jewellery. These alloys are a mix of metals, so the gold isn’t pure, but it does make the piece a lot cheaper and adds a unique look. Here are the most popular gold alloys.

White Gold

White gold is created by adding nickel or palladium. The result is a metal that actually looks more similar to silver or platinum, but it is still gold!

Rose Gold

In recent years, rose gold has become a huge hit and somewhat of a trend. This pink-tinged gold is made by adding around 25% copper to pure gold, creating a gorgeous colour that can be used on anything from necklaces to rings. 

What Are Gold Grades?

When looking at the different types of gold, you might come across the term gold grades. This actually doesn’t refer to the different types of gold, but is more commonly used in the mining process. 

When gold is discovered, it’s found in an ore. This is basically a mix of gold with other substances (usually rock). To obtain the gold, it must be separated from the ore, which is a costly process!

To determine whether separation is worth it, a gold grade is used. This measures how much gold is within the ore, making it easy for a decision to be made.

Which Types of Gold Should You Buy?

If you’re buying gold in its physical form as an investment, your best bet is to buy pure yellow gold. This is more expensive, but it’s the best of the gold options for getting a good return one day.

If you’re buying gold for a personal collection, it really doesn’t matter which you buy. This all comes down to which you find the most attractive. The main thing to consider is where to buy your gold from!

What Next?

Now you know the different types of gold available, it’s time to start shopping! Whatever your purpose, gold is always a good investment and makes for beautiful heirlooms that you can pass down through your family. 

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out more on our website! We write across a range of topics, including finance, health, and home. 

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