9ct vs 18ct Yellow Gold: What’s the Real Difference Once You’re Wearing It?
When it comes to yellow gold wedding rings, 9ct and 18ct options may look the same in a jewellery shop, but they behave very differently over time. Here’s the practical difference that actually matters.
The Technical Differences Between 9ct and 18ct Yellow Gold
When you’re buying a yellow gold wedding ring, you’ll be faced with the choice: 9ct or 18ct? There are plenty of technical facts available online to help you decide.
Some differences are are pretty neutral: The colours of the two are visually very similar, and they’re both ‘proper’ precious metals.
Some facts are a personal choice: If your wedding budget is tight, 9ct gold is more affordable than yellow gold.
What 9ct vs 18ct Actually Means When It’s On Your Finger
None of the technical facts, though, capture what the practical difference is once the ring is on your hand. In day-to-day life, the real difference is this: Oxidisation.
To create gold for jewellery, pure gold is mixed with other metals to make up the correct proportions. For 18ct, the proportion of other metals is small, and its effect creates durability in the otherwise malleable gold metal, making it far more suitable to wear as jewellery. For 9ct, the proportion of these other metals is very high, which impacts the oxidisation process. A 9ct gold ring will change colour over time, and more rapidly than most people expect.
Here’s a ring with a 9ct yellow gold brushed centre, part way through a touch up at my jewellery workshop, 2 years into its life. On the left, you can see the deeper, darker oxidised colour it changed to within only 2 years. On the right, is the bright gold colour I restored it to, which is also the original colour of the ring when it was brand new.
Which Yellow Gold Metal Is More Practical Long Term?
Choosing 9ct yellow gold means accepting the ongoing metal colour change, and the ongoing maintenance that requires over time. The original colour can be easily restored, as you can see above. Though the repeated restoration also means it won’t last as long as an equivalent 18ct yellow gold band (see more the lifespan of 9ct and 18ct gold here). A 9ct wedding ring is still a great choice, provided you know what to expect over time.
If your budget allows for it, 18ct yellow gold is the more practical choice long term. It lasts longer, is easier to maintain, and holds its appearance much more consistently in your day to day life. If these factors matter to you, the difference is well worth it.
Still Unsure Which Metal Is Best For Your Own Wedding Ring?
To get personalised advice on your wedding ring metal, or to design your own yellow gold wedding ring directly with an Australian jewellery maker, book an appointment online.
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