In ordinary jewelry, none of these metals are used in their pure form. For various reasons, they are mixed with other metals. By mixing different metals, I create an alloy. This mixing process is very important for us goldsmiths because it allows me to create different physical conditions which I need in to create various effects, such as hardness, color, and price. I can manipulate the value of an alloy in a very dramatic way.
Gold alloys The standard gold alloy is a mixture of gold, silver, and copper.
Pure gold is too soft for reasonable jewelry use. A pure gold ring would bend and become dented very quickly. In some Asian countries, pure gold is used. The gold is by far the most expensive metal in this alloy. Here are the most commonly used alloy types.