Rose Gold vs. Yellow Gold For Your Name Necklace: Which Is the Better Choice?
Updated December 22, 2022.
Did you know that all types of gold are naturally yellow? Jewelers and designers regularly manipulate its standard appearance to more than ten different colors of gold. Rose gold has been seen dominating jewelry, fashion, and interior design trends for the last several years.
While rose gold and yellow gold are the most common types of gold, they differ significantly in their composition, durability, and hypoallergenic qualities. When it comes to buying a gold name necklace, it's important to take these factors into consideration so you can choose which metal best suits you or the wearer.
So, which one is better? Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each metal so you can make the best decision.
What Is Yellow Gold?
Yellow gold holds a deep, rich color and is commonly used in jewelry design. Yellow gold is typically an alloy, made of yellow gold with added copper, zinc, silver, and sometimes nickel alloys. This blending of metals achieves greater durability as well as the desired color tone.
As gold has a luxurious air about it, you can choose gold-plated name necklaces to feel like a diva. Take a look here at some of our stunning gold name necklaces.
Pros
- Considered the most hypoallergenic of all gold alloys.
- Easy for jewelers to manipulate or re-size due to its softness.
- Simple to clean and maintain.
- Flattering for olive and darker skin tones.
- Complements and elevates other precious metals and stones.
Cons
- Requires frequent cleaning and polishing to keep its vibrant shine.
- At risk for dents, scratches, and other imperfections due to its softness.
What Is Rose Gold?
Rose gold is one of many variations of gold colors available for jewelry. Rose gold is a delicate mixture of classic yellow gold and copper metals. The most common composition of rose gold is 75 percent pure gold to 25 percent copper, which makes 18k rose gold. The copper combined with yellow gold creates the signature pink hue that we're familiar with.
Rose gold is widely considered very romantic, which is why rose gold jewelry for girlfriends is a popular choice. Take a look here at some of our beautiful, dainty rose gold name necklaces.
Pros
- Possesses incredible durability. Adding copper to characteristically soft pure gold increases its resistance to damage.
- Exquisite color with a romantic, charming look.
- Surprisingly affordable in comparison to other precious metals.
- Flattering on many skin tones.
Cons
- Non-hypoallergenic, especially if you’re sensitive to copper.
- Less ordinary than yellow gold, therefore achieving the perfect style may require a custom design.
Considerations When Choosing Between Rose Gold & Yellow Gold
As much as the pros and cons can help you make a decision, the best metal option will differ for each individual. If you're still unsure of which metal to choose, consider these four questions below, and by the end of the last one, you should have your winner!
1. Are You Allergic to Any Particular Metals?
As a general rule, the higher the gold content, the less likely allergic reactions are. Therefore, between rose and yellow gold, yellow gold is more hypoallergenic. If you know you're allergic to specific metals, confirm the alloy composition of the particular jewelry piece to avoid any reactions.
2. Which Type of Skin Tone Do You Have?
When selecting rose or yellow gold, you obviously want the metal that will best compliment your skin tone. If you have a fair, light skin tone, yellow gold or silver is best. If you have a more tanned, olive skin tone, both rose gold and yellow gold will match beautifully.
3. Which Metal Is More Durable?
Rose gold is more durable compared to yellow gold due to the copper alloy in its composition. It's more resilient and requires less maintenance.
4. Which Option Offers Better Value For Money?
Since 14k rose gold or 18k rose gold contains the same amount of gold as 14k yellow gold or 18k yellow gold, they are essentially worth the same as their counterparts. However, rose gold rings can sometimes be cheaper due to the high copper content, which is relatively cheap compared to other metals.
Conclusion
Both rose gold and yellow gold offer elegant and flattering looks to fit any style. When choosing a precious metal for your personalized name necklace, consider the importance of the decision as this piece is highly personal and should be considered a long-term investment.
Ultimately though, personal preference is what matters most.