Many aspiring jewelry designers imagine that working with gold is a privilege reserved for the most experienced artisans, an honor earned after years of practice. The reality, thankfully, is much more accessible. If the gold jewelry creation although it involves higher financial stakes due to the cost of the metal, its handling is actually no more complex than that of non-precious metals like copper.
In this comprehensive guide to the creation and design of gold jewelry We will explore everything you need to know to master this precious metal, from the fundamentals to designing and marketing your own pieces.
How is gold transformed into jewelry?
As in many sectors, technology has greatly influenced the jewelry market, with techniques like molding and die-stamping for mass production. However, there is a growing and strong demand for handmade gold jewelry , which embody a unique expertise.
If you wish to embark on the handcrafted gold jewelry You may need to invest in some specific tools, but the good news is that the overall process remains very similar to working with other metals.
Among the new tools, you'll likely find a more powerful torch, a suitable flux, and a block of charcoal to support the workpiece while heating. You'll also need a different type of solder , but the process of gold brazing is very close to that of money, and sometimes even a little simpler.
The designs of handcrafted gold jewelry They can range from simple, hand-assembled pendants and bracelets to complex pieces that require several days of work. What makes these creations so special is that each piece of jewelry is unique, crafted solely by the jeweler's hands and a few simple tools.
What types of gold should be used for jewelry?
The purity of gold is measured in carats (ct) The purity scale ranges from 24-carat gold, the purest, down to alloys like 9-carat gold.
L' 24-carat gold Gold, 99.9%+ pure, is a very soft and malleable metal, making it difficult to work with for everyday jewelry. This is why gold is almost always mixed with other metals to create a... alloy more resistant and durable. The most commonly used metals for these alloys are silver, copper, zinc, palladium, and nickel. The proportion of these metals determines not only the carat but also the color of the final product.
Here are the most common gold purities in Europe:
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22-carat gold : 91.6% pure gold
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18-carat gold : 75% pure gold (the standard in France for fine jewelry)
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14-carat gold : 58.5% pure gold
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9-carat gold : 37.5% pure gold
Another crucial factor to consider is the color of gold you wish to use. While yellow gold is the first image that comes to mind, other beautiful options are available for your creations.
Yellow Gold
This is the most classic alloy, composed of pure gold, silver, and copper. The higher the gold content, the richer and more intense the yellow hue. yellow gold enjoys universal popularity and is used for all types of jewelry: rings , necklaces , bracelets , earrings , etc.
White Gold
L' white gold Rhodium is an alloy of pure gold and white metals such as palladium or nickel. It is often coated with a thin layer of rhodium to give it a harder, lustrous, and perfectly white surface. It is a relatively modern invention, first commercialized around 1912. Its price is similar to that of yellow gold, and it is highly prized for engagement rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Rose Gold
Just like yellow gold, the rose gold Rose gold is an alloy of gold, copper, and silver. The difference lies in the proportion of copper, which is increased to achieve its distinctive pinkish hue. The higher the copper content, the more the jewelry will appear red. Rose gold is particularly fashionable for rings and bracelets .
How to preserve and care for your gold creations?
If you create your own gold jewelry, it's essential to know how to care for it so it retains its shine over time. To learn more, you can consult our Gold jewelry care guide . Here are some golden rules:
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Always use a jewelry box Boxes with compartments or drawers are ideal for preventing impacts.
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Wrap each piece of jewelry individually : If you do not have a suitable case, wrap each piece in a soft fabric (such as a suede pouch) and place them in an airtight box or zip-lock bag to preserve their shine.
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Store the jewelry separately Never put several pieces of jewelry unprotected in the same bag or box. They could get tangled, scratched, and damaged each other.
How to legally sell your gold jewelry creations?
If you are considering sell gold jewelry that you manufacture, there are strict rules to follow, particularly in Europe and the United Kingdom.
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Respect minimum purity standards
If you describe a piece of jewelry as being in 18-carat gold It must contain a minimum of 75% pure gold, or 750 parts per thousand. For 9-carat gold, the minimum is 375 parts per thousand. These specifications must be accurate. -
Punching is mandatory for parts exceeding a certain weight.
In France, for example, any gold object weighing more than 3 grams must be punched by an assay office. This hallmark certifies the purity of the metal. In the United Kingdom, this threshold is 1 gram. It is advisable to have the hallmark applied before the final finishing touches to avoid damaging the jewelry. -
Show legal information
Whether you sell on a website, on platforms like Etsy, or on a designer market You must clearly display the hallmark information. This display explains the meaning of the hallmarks to buyers. Contact your country's customs or assay offices to obtain the official documentation.
Find inspiration for your gold jewelry creations
Ready to dive into design and manufacturing? Perhaps you're lacking a spark of inspiration; discover the... new collections from La Fille Du Sud .
You can also create boards on Pinterest, build up digital mood boards (mood boards) or even use jewelry design apps. Another very creative approach is to keep a sketchbook where you collect images, colors, and textures inspired by nature, architecture, fashion, or your travels. This sketchbook will become a goldmine for your future creations.
Strategies for selling your creations and launching your business
Once your ideas have transformed into magnificent gold jewelry pieces The next step is selling. Thanks to the internet, it's now much easier to launch your own business. jewelry company While craft fairs remain an excellent channel, creating your own shop on Shopify or sell via an established marketplace such as Etsy gives you access to millions of potential customers, 24/7.
For sell jewelry online , of the high-quality photographs are absolutely essential. Present your creations against a neutral and uncluttered background, with photos taken from different angles to highlight every detail. Also, remember to write some descriptions. detailed product descriptions and useful, including information on size, gold purity (carat) and materials used.
If you prefer in-person sales, or if you wish to combine the two, the craft markets are an excellent option. They allow you to gain visibility, test your concepts and get direct feedback from your customers.
Dive into the world of jewelry making
Want to learn more about the fascinating world of jewelry and precious stones? At La Fille Du Sud , we are here to answer your questions via our contact form .