Take a look around—rose gold jewelry is back in style and better than ever. With a vintage appeal and romantic glow, it’s no wonder women everywhere are clamoring to find a rose gold bracelet and rose gold earrings to add to their collection. The next time you want to treat that special someone with the love they deserve, consider gifting sophisticated rose gold jewelry.
But where did the timeless rose jewelry trend originate? What makes it an enduring choice for fine jewelry designers around the globe? Discover the answers to all these questions and more before you invest in luxurious rose gold jewelry of your very own.
What is Rose Gold?
We’ve all seen the pinkish metal before, but do you know what it is? Rose gold is an alloy created by combining pure gold and copper. The more copper that is present, the redder the tone becomes; if the copper content is minimal, it results in a paler blush hue. In most cases, trace amounts of silver are added to help achieve the desired color.
A Breakdown of Rose Gold Karats:
The proportions used in these alloys determine the karat for each piece of rose gold jewelry. Similar to yellow gold or white gold, rose gold karats can be broken down as follows:
- 18K rose gold: contains 75% gold, around 22.2% copper, and 2.8% silver
- 14K rose gold: contains roughly 58.3% gold, 33.5% copper, and 8.2% silver
- 10K rose gold: contains approximately 41.7% gold, 40.6% copper, and 17.7% silver
Is Yellow Gold or Rose Gold Worth More?
Everyone has their preferences for jewelry metal, but when it comes down to it, it’s important to note that neither yellow gold nor rose gold jewelry is inherently worth more than the other. In fact, the value really only depends on the pure gold content in the piece.
The only real difference in something being 18K yellow gold and 18K rose gold is the type of alloys used, and though rose gold uses a higher amount of the less expensive copper, the two designs would come out at around the same price, with rose gold likely at the negligibly lower end. All other prices boil down to craftsmanship and design.
When Was Rose Gold Jewelry First Popular?
You might be familiar with the modern-day rose gold necklaces and rose gold rings worn around you, but did you know the metal alloy has a fascinating history in the jewelry business? It was first created in 19th-century Imperial Russia when artisans began mixing yellow gold and copper together, creating an alluring material dubbed “Russian Gold.” Renowned jeweler Carl Fabergé was among the first to use this precious metal in his ornate creations—including his famous Fabergé Eggs.
Rose gold jewelry was mildly popular throughout the next hundred years, but it wasn’t until the Roaring ’20s that the pinkish tone reentered fashion. Inspired by the opulence of the time, jewelers in the 1920s favored vivid colors and feminine looks. When major designers, like Cartier, began releasing rose gold earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, it was solidified as the new It Girl trend.
When the Great Depression hit and Wall Street crashed, prosperity dwindled—and so did the preference for rose gold jewelry. Designers turned to bright white color schemes and platinum. This remained the preferred look (for those who could afford it) until a few years later, when WWII began and countries began to restrict the use of platinum. Suddenly, yellow gold and rose gold were reintroduced—and it’s been steadily present in the market ever since.
5 Reasons Why Rose Gold Jewelry Will Never Go Out of Style
At this point, rose gold is widely considered the epitome of style. While sterling silver and yellow gold pieces will always have a place in our jewelry box, nothing beats the classic look of rose gold jewelry—and designers agree! Luxury brands continue to use the pink metal alloy in their designs for five main reasons:
1. Rose Gold Jewelry Is Universally Flattering
When you first look at rose gold jewelry, it might feel like it’s too colorful to be flattering—but it’s quite the opposite! The rosy hue adds a soft contrast to any skin tone, managing to enhance both warm and cool complexions without drawing too much attention away from the wearer’s natural beauty.
With a delicate glow and feminine style, anyone can enjoy the romantic look of rose gold jewelry, regardless of skin color. If you have blue or pink undertones, the added copper helps create a flattering harmony to your coloring. If you have golden and peach undertones, rose gold earrings make you appear even more radiant. Sport a rose gold ring or rose gold bracelet to see this effect for yourself!
2. Rose Gold Jewelry is Extremely Durable
While 24K gold may sound like the height of luxury, it’s much too soft to actually be worn. Metal alloys are the solution!
For many fine jewelry designers, rose gold is their preferred choice. The high percentage of copper provides an unmatched scratch resistance and increased strength, ensuring each design is resistant to daily wear and tear.
Does Rose Gold Tarnish Easily?
Contrary to what you may think, rose gold jewelry does not tarnish or rust over time. But that doesn’t mean the piece will look the same in 50 years as it does now! Where other metals, such as silver or brass, become dull or discolored over time, copper naturally darkens with consistent contact with our skin’s oils. This form of patina results in rose gold rings that look all the more vintage.
3. Rose Gold Jewelry is Versatile
Rose gold is one of the most versatile metals for the designer and wearer alike. With the ability to amplify the beauty of any gemstone and pair well with other precious metals in the market, it’s no surprise that many designers find themselves inspired by the pink hue. The romantic pieces can be worn for any occasion, elevating every daytime fit to nighttime elegance in an instant.
Pro tip: If you’ve ever been interested in trying to mix metals, investing in rose gold necklaces and earrings is a must! The soft, warm color acts as a bridge between silver’s cool tones and yellow gold’s warm tones. When you add a rose gold necklace to your typical silver or gold set, it allows for a harmonious style.
4. Rose Gold Jewelry Is Low Maintenance
We’re here to dispel the myth that rose gold is a high-maintenance metal. Unlike white gold, which may require rhodium plating to maintain its signature white finish, rose gold doesn’t require any additional coating. As long as you prioritize proper care, avoid harsh chemicals, and make time for regular cleanings (as you should with all fine jewelry designs), you’ll be able to don your favorite rose gold bracelet for a lifetime and more.
5. Rose Gold Jewelry Can Be Affordable
If you’re shopping on a budget, you may be able to pinch a penny here and there by picking rose gold over other metals. While practically the same, the overall price depends on the gold content, the copper, rose gold’s primary alloying metal, costs less than the materials used to create white or yellow gold, resulting in a slightly cheaper base value. Other factors, including gold quality, design complexity, and the type of gemstones and embellishment, must also be taken into consideration.
A Closer Look at the Most Popular Categories of Rose Gold Jewelry
Are you searching for the perfect anniversary band to add to your wedding ring stack? Do you want a subtle yet sophisticated design to add to your everyday staples? Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a good chance it can be found in rose gold! As you shop, keep an eye out for these rose gold jewelry designs:
Bring Beauty to Your Jewelry Collection with a Rose Gold Necklace
If you want to feel pretty in pink, there’s no better way than wearing a rose gold necklace. Whether you want to dress to impress with a dazzling pink morganite and diamond pendant necklace or show off your subtle style with a rose gold curved bar necklace, having the blush-toned metal sit around your neck is sure to draw all eyes to you. The next time you’re shopping for fine jewelry, make sure to try on one or two of these gorgeous rose gold necklace styles:
- Chains
- Tennis necklaces
- Bar necklaces
- Cross pendants
- Heart lockets
Add a Flash of Pink to Your Wrist with Rose Gold Bracelets
Rose gold bracelets are a classic, timeless way to enhance any outfit. Choose between something dainty and delicate, like a rose gold David Yurman Sculpted Cable bangle, or make a statement with our rose gold and green amethyst bracelet. Whether worn on its own or paired with other favorites in your collection, the radiant design is sure to stand out.
Adorn Your Lobes with Enchanting Rose Gold Earrings
Any fashion-forward woman would be able to tell you how finding the right pair of earrings changes the game. It doesn’t matter if they’re big, bold hoops or smaller fancy diamond studs—rose gold earrings help frame the face and draw attention to your best features. With a flattering tone and vintage appeal, a pair of rose gold diamond heart earrings is the secret to turning an outfit from basic to beautiful.
Decorate Your Hands with Rose Gold Rings
Whether worn as a form of personal expression or to symbolize commitment, one thing is for sure—rose gold rings will never go out of style. Browse the endless selection of designs to find your perfect fit, from the captivating rainbow look of a fancy sapphire and diamond rose gold ring, an antique-inspired bezel set milgrain diamond rose gold ring, and beyond. Rose gold is used to create all sorts of rings, including:
- Pinky rings
- Signet rings
- Fashion rings
- Cocktail rings
- Wedding bands
- Engagement ring
- Stacking bands
A Helpful Guide to Browsing Rose Gold Engagement Rings
With a reputation as being the most romantic metal, rose gold is the perfect choice for proposal-perfect designs. When you connect with your local jeweler to discuss your bride-to-be’s dream design, it helps to understand these design details:
What Gemstones Look Best with Rose Gold Jewelry?
You might assume that, since the metal has a pink color, it limits the list of compatible gemstones—but you’d be wrong! While many experts suggest choosing warm-toned gems like pink sapphire, ruby, or morganite, you can also choose something cooler for a bit more contrast, like emerald, blue sapphire, or peridot.
If your bride prefers more traditional wedding jewelry, you can always choose a diamond center stone. In fact, the pinkish hue makes the stone appear even brighter, camouflaging any faint yellow or brown undertones. This visual effect gives you the choice of buying a lower-grade diamond at a more affordable price without sacrificing style.
What’s the Best Setting for Rose Gold Engagement Rings?
Ring setting is one of the most important elements to consider when buying any kind of rose gold ring. To choose the right one for your partner, you have to consider her preferred styles. Lean into the vintage vibe with a three-stone setting, or go for sleek styles, like the diamond-studded halo or minimalist solitaire, for a modern approach. The options are endless!
Can You Engrave a Rose Gold Engagement Ring?
If you’re considering having your wedding date, new last name, or a sentimental message carved into the inner band of your engagement ring, it’s important to find a jeweler you trust. Rose gold has a high copper content, making it slightly more difficult to work with than other alloys. When done incorrectly, it could lead to ragged edges and minor rough spots. Competent artisans will be trained in the proper techniques and have access to the right machines.
When a jewelry trend remains popular for so many decades, it’s worth noting—and that’s exactly the case with rose gold designs! With a long history and endless styles to choose from, there’s truly something to suit every taste. Head to your local jewelry store to shop for your ideal rose gold jewelry today.
