When buying a gold ring, size will be a determining factor, but there are many other things to keep in mind. Durability, style, and price are also important, but how do you know if you are getting the best deal? Learning more about the way gold jewelry is made, classified, and priced, will help ensure that the gold ring you choose is the ideal one for you.

First, it helps to understand that other metals are alloyed with gold, such as copper, iron, nickel, platinum, steel, silver, and zinc. Alloying gold with different metals makes it easier to work with as well as more affordable. Different alloys can also be used to give gold a different color. For example, nickel or platinum can be used to create white gold and copper is used to create a golden rosy tone.

Another issue that determines cost is the amount of skill and difficulty that goes into the creation of a gold ring. Since gold is a considered a soft metal, it is fairly easy to work with, but it can quickly loose its shape or become scratched. The purer the gold, the softer it is, which is why alloys play an important part in the making of a gold ring.

An everyday ring should be made from lower karat gold or from metal that is gold-plated. Delicate rings with intricate designs that are not intended to be worn everyday can safely be made from the purest quality of gold, which is 24-karat. Being the purest, it is also the softest and the most expensive.

Slightly lower in price is 18-karat gold, which is about 75% pure and 25% alloy. It is still soft enough to create a detailed design for a gold ring, but it is also somewhat stronger and less expensive than 24-karat gold.

The most popular quality of gold used in jewelry making is 14-karat gold, which is perfect for rings. It is slightly over half-pure, and is priced accordingly. It is very strong and is a good choice for frequently worn jewelry, especially a gold ring, such as an engagement ring or wedding ring, which is worn on a daily basis.

For jewelry to be advertised as gold in the U.S., it must be at least 40% pure, which is classified as 10-karat gold. This is the strongest quality for gold jewelry and is also the most affordable.

Once you choose a gold ring, learning to care for it properly is also important. Washing it with a soft towel and warm soapy water, rinsing it completely, and allowing it to dry thoroughly before putting it away will help your gold ring remain beautiful. It is also a good idea to keep special pieces separate from other jewelry. You might want to keep your gold ring in the box it came in when not wearing it, or wrap it in cloth before putting it into your jewelry box.