How to Pick a Gold Ring

Rings are adornments that can signify relationships, such as with engagement or wedding rings. Rings can also represent special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries. Whether a ring is for a celebrated event or just to be worn as a wardrobe accessory, gold is the most durable and versatile metal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Select the Right Kind of Gold Ring

1. Check inside the ring for markings identifying the karat weight. Pure gold is 24k and must have an alloy added to make it hard enough to form and retain the shape of rings.

2. Look for an 18k gold ring for one that is 75-percent gold. While 18k used to be considered too soft for rings, especially for men, modern alloys are engineered to be harder than in the past. Most 18k gold rings will hold up well unless you subject them to abrasive work conditions.

3. Pick the higher karat ratings for the more lustrous and rich appearance. The lower karats, such as 10k or 14k, are not as brilliant, since the amount of pure gold is much less than that of the 18k.

4. Choose white gold for a substantially harder ring than a gold ring. White gold is a combination of gold alloyed with nickel and palladium. It is made in a variety of karat measurements, including 10k, 14k, 18k, 20k and 22k.

5. Get the best size and shape of gold ring to complement your fashion style. A bold look is acquired when you choose a larger ring with diamonds or other precious stones. A simple gold band is a classic look for any attire.

6. Take your pick of matching gold wedding-ring sets in either white or yellow gold. The older, more traditional wedding jewelry is yellow gold while white gold is more modern.

7. Combine the old and the modern when you pick a two-tone mix of yellow and white gold rings.

Tips & Warnings

• For the most accurate ring measurement, measure your finger at the end of the day or after you have been active for several hours. The blood pools when the arms are down for a while, which causes the fingers to enlarge. Also, the finger should be warm, since cold fingers are smaller.
• Avoid getting duped with too low gold content. Since 10k is the lowest value of gold that can be legally marked as karat gold, always check inside the ring for karat identification. Some jewelry manufacturers also put an identification mark inside the ring next to the karat mark.