# Lovely Rita's Gold Buying Guide
https://jewelryshopping.com | Family-owned since 2001 | Fort Myers, Florida

## Understanding Gold Karats

### What Does "Karat" Mean?
Karat (K) measures gold purity - how much pure gold vs other metals.
- 24K = 100% pure gold (too soft for jewelry)
- 18K = 75% gold
- 14K = 58.3% gold
- 10K = 41.7% gold

## 10K Gold

### Composition
- 41.7% pure gold
- 58.3% alloy metals (copper, silver, zinc)

### Pros
✓ Most affordable gold option
✓ Most durable and scratch-resistant
✓ Great for everyday wear
✓ Best for active lifestyles

### Cons
✗ Slightly lighter yellow color
✗ May trigger allergies in sensitive people
✗ Lower resale value

### Best For
- Daily wear jewelry
- Children's jewelry
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Active people

### Price Range
Typically 20-30% less than 14K

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## 14K Gold (MOST POPULAR in USA)

### Composition
- 58.3% pure gold
- 41.7% alloy metals

### Pros
✓ Perfect balance of durability and beauty
✓ Rich gold color
✓ Industry standard in America
✓ Good resale value
✓ Less likely to cause allergies

### Cons
✗ More expensive than 10K
✗ Slightly softer than 10K

### Best For
- EVERYONE! Most versatile choice
- Engagement rings & wedding bands
- Fine jewelry gifts
- Investment pieces

### Price Range
Mid-range - best value for quality

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## 18K Gold

### Composition
- 75% pure gold
- 25% alloy metals

### Pros
✓ Richest, warmest gold color
✓ Hypoallergenic (great for sensitive skin)
✓ Higher prestige and value
✓ Best resale value

### Cons
✗ Most expensive option
✗ Softer, scratches easier
✗ Requires more care

### Best For
- Luxury jewelry
- Special occasion pieces
- Sensitive skin
- Investment/heirloom pieces
- European customers (standard there)

### Price Range
25-40% more than 14K

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## Quick Comparison Chart

| Feature | 10K | 14K | 18K |
|---------|-----|-----|-----|
| Gold Content | 41.7% | 58.3% | 75% |
| Durability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Color Richness | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Price | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Best For | Daily wear | Everything | Luxury |

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## Gold Colors

### Yellow Gold
- Classic, traditional look
- Warm, rich appearance
- Most popular worldwide
- Timeless appeal

### White Gold
- Silvery appearance
- Modern, contemporary look
- Rhodium plated for brightness
- May need re-plating over time

### Rose Gold
- Pink/blush hue
- Romantic, trendy
- Flattering on all skin tones
- Very popular currently

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## How to Choose

### Choose 10K If:
- Budget is a concern
- Jewelry will be worn daily
- You're active/work with hands
- Buying for children

### Choose 14K If:
- You want best overall value
- It's for regular wear
- You're unsure (safe choice!)
- Buying engagement/wedding jewelry

### Choose 18K If:
- Budget allows for luxury
- You have sensitive skin
- It's a special heirloom piece
- You prefer richer color

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## Rita's Expert Tips

1. **For engagement rings**: 14K offers best durability for daily wear
2. **For earrings**: 14K or 18K (not much wear and tear)
3. **For chains worn daily**: 10K or 14K (durability matters)
4. **For investment**: 18K holds value best
5. **Mixing karats**: OK! Most people can't tell the difference when worn

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## Gold Jewelry Care

- Remove before cleaning, swimming, exercising
- Store separately to prevent scratches
- Clean with mild soap and soft brush
- Polish with jewelry cloth
- Professional cleaning yearly

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## Solid Gold vs Gold-Filled vs Gold-Plated

| Type | Description | Durability | Price |
|------|-------------|------------|-------|
| Solid Gold | Pure gold alloy throughout | Lifetime | $$$ |
| Gold-Filled | Thick gold layer bonded to base | Years | $$ |
| Gold-Plated | Thin gold coating | Months | $ |

**We sell SOLID gold jewelry** - real 10K, 14K, and 18K gold throughout.

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