Gold has been valued for centuries for its rich luster and for the way it brings out the warmth of the wearer's skin. Many artisans and jewelers prefer yellow gold to other metals because it yields easily to being shaped and styled. In its pure, 24 karat form, gold can bend in the course of daily wear: for this reason it is mixed with other metals to create pieces of greater strength and durability. Nickel, zinc and copper are commonly alloyed in the gold to strengthen it and create jewelry pieces that wear longer-an important asset when setting a diamond.

Gold's appeal as a precious metal that can be worn every day exposes it to a wide variety of common elements that can lessen its luster over time. To brighten gold jewelry that has grown dull, soak it in a solution of warm water and detergent-free soap, and scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush.

When you are not wearing your fine gold jewelry, we recommend that you store gold pieces individually in soft cloth pouches to protect them from the wear that can result from brushing up against other jewelry pieces.