Most gold jewelry is made from an alloy, which means pure gold is mixed with other metals to make it stronger for everyday wear. Pure gold has a rich yellow color, but it is too soft for most fine jewelry on its own.

At Hera, we most often work with 14K gold, which is approximately 58% pure gold. This gives yellow gold its warm color while adding enough strength to make it more durable and scratch-resistant for daily wear.

White gold is made by mixing pure yellow gold with lighter-toned metals, creating a pale champagne-colored alloy. To achieve a bright white finish, all white gold rings are plated with rhodium.

Rhodium plating typically needs to be refreshed every six months to two years, depending on your lifestyle, skin chemistry, and how often you wear your ring.

White gold is not as dense or durable as platinum, but it has a harder surface, which means it tends to stay shinier and show fewer surface scratches. It is also lighter in weight than platinum, which some clients find more comfortable.

Like yellow gold, 14K rose gold is approximately 58% pure gold. Its signature pink tone comes from copper added to the alloy.

Because copper levels can vary from jeweler to jeweler, rose gold color can look slightly different across brands. We primarily work with 14K rose gold because it offers a beautiful balance of color, purity, and durability.

We also offer 18K gold as a customization for clients who want a richer, more buttery gold color. Because 18K gold is 75% pure gold, it is softer than 14K gold and will scratch more easily over time.

Many clients love the antique patina that develops with 18K gold, but it is important to know that it requires a bit more care. 18K gold is available in yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold.

Platinum is a naturally white metal that is denser and more durable than white gold. Unlike white gold, it does not require rhodium plating to maintain its bright white color, making it a lower-maintenance option over time.

Platinum has a softer surface than white gold, so it will show scratches and develop an antique patina with wear. Because platinum rings are typically made with 95% pure platinum, it is also a strong choice for clients with metal sensitivities or allergies.