Precious Metal Guide
Choose the metal that suits your ring, your budget and the way you wear jewellery. Compare 9k gold, 18k gold and 950 platinum through the details that matter.
The ‘k’ stands for karat: a measure of gold purity on a 24-part scale. It describes gold content, rather than gemstone weight. Platinum purity is expressed in parts per thousand.
Three precious metal choices
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9k gold
37.5% gold · 375 fineness
A recognised gold standard, usually at a lower price than 18k in an equivalent design. A considered option when balancing the metal, stone and overall budget. -
18k gold
75% gold · 750 fineness
Higher fine-gold content, with yellow alloys often showing a richer gold colour. A choice for customers who value the gold content and character of the finished piece. -
950 platinum
95% platinum · 950 fineness
Naturally white and dense, with a substantial feel. It does not need rhodium plating to remain white, although its surface finish changes with wear.
Choose the colour you want to wear
Yellow gold retains a warm gold appearance. Shade varies with purity, alloy recipe and finish; compare your chosen 9k and 18k options rather than relying on a screen alone.
White gold is gold alloyed with other metals to create a paler colour. It is commonly rhodium finished for a brighter white surface, which may need renewing over time.
Rose gold gets its pink tone from copper in the alloy. Exact colour varies by composition.
Platinum has a naturally grey-white colour. It can develop a soft, satin-like surface known as patina.
Think about everyday wear
All precious metals can scratch and show signs of use. Hardness and durability depend on the complete alloy, how it is processed and the ring’s construction, as well as your lifestyle.
Platinum generally feels heavier than gold alloys in an equivalent design because of its density. Try to consider the band’s width, depth and profile alongside the metal.
Remove jewellery for activities that expose it to impact, abrasion or chemicals. Regular checks of settings and appropriate care help keep a ring comfortable and secure.
Compare the finished ring
Choose by appearance, comfort, care and the actual price of your preferred design. Finished prices reflect the alloy, metal weight, construction, workmanship and current precious metal prices.
9k usually offers a lower entry price than 18k in a comparable design. Platinum pricing varies, so ask us to compare the available options rather than assuming it is always the most expensive.
We can help you decide where your budget makes the most visible difference, without treating one metal as the right answer for every customer.
Illustrative precious metal image.
Metal knowledge, from the beginning
We make our own jewellery metal through our refinery, bringing metal preparation into our process alongside design and craftsmanship.
Preparing jewellery alloys involves blending precious metal with selected alloying metals for the required purity, colour and working properties. The mix varies with the chosen metal and finish.
This metal-making knowledge is part of our family jewellery heritage, which dates to Hong Kong in 1959. AtelierRings launched in 2025, bringing that experience to a personal online jewellery service.
Independent reassurance about purity
Metal preparation and independent hallmarking have different roles. A legally recognised hallmark provides an independent check of the precious metal fineness stated for the article.
Look for 375 for 9k gold, 750 for 18k gold and 950 for 950 platinum, together with the other required marks.
Read the Hallmark Guide
Speak to AtelierRings
FAQs
Have a particular ring in mind? We can help you compare the metal options, finish and care requirements before you decide.
Is 9k gold solid gold or gold plated?
9k is a gold alloy containing 37.5% gold throughout the alloy. Gold plating is a surface layer over another material. Our jewellery uses solid precious metals, with the specification stated for each piece.
Is 9k gold always harder-wearing than 18k?
Purity alone does not determine wear resistance. Alloy composition, processing, the design and how the ring is worn all matter. Both 9k and 18k gold can be suitable for everyday jewellery when properly designed and cared for.
Will white gold need rhodium replating?
White gold is commonly finished with rhodium for a bright white appearance. That surface finish can wear and may need renewal. The interval depends on the alloy, finish and wear. Please ask us to confirm the finish for your chosen piece.
Which metal should I choose if my skin is sensitive?
Our jewellery metals are formulated to be hypoallergenic. If you have a known metal allergy or sensitive skin, please speak to our team before ordering so we can discuss the composition of your chosen piece and give you additional peace of mind.
Speak to our team
Can I wear different metals together?
Rings worn together can rub against one another. Matching metal specifications and compatible profiles may help manage uneven wear. We can discuss your engagement ring and wedding band as a pair before you choose.
Are polishing and replating covered by the lifetime warranty?
Routine maintenance, polishing and replating are excluded. Our voluntary warranty provides one complimentary repair per item for a qualifying manufacturing defect, subject to assessment and terms. Your statutory rights remain unaffected.
Read the warranty terms
Further reading
Information checked in October 2026. Alloy recipes and finishes vary; your chosen piece’s specification takes priority.
World Gold Council: gold purity and colour
The Royal Mint: precious metals and purity
Platinum Guild International: platinum jewellery