A beautiful gold engagement ring with intricate designs inside a clear diamond face.

An Alchemist’s Guide to Gold: The Secrets of 14K and 18K Gold Rings

Written by: Annette Lee

|

Published on

|

Time to read 3 min

The Beauty of Reclaimed Gold

At The North Way Studio, we are committed to responsible practices, ensuring each piece reflects a conscientious journey from conception to creation. As such, we work exclusively with reclaimed, or recycled gold

A Noble Transformation

What is reclaimed, recycled gold?

Recycled gold is a product of magical alchemy. Skilled artisans gather pre-loved jewelry, coins, and even jewelers' scraps to melt them into a fresh creation – reborn gold. 

Is reclaimed gold better than normally mined gold?

The short answer is: yes!


Recycled gold represents the perfect blend of past and present. It offers the same quality and beauty as newly-mined gold, but also supports sustainable practices in the realm of luxury.


Recycled gold is better for the environment , and thus threads together the magical and the responsible. By choosing our reclaimed gold, you are now part of our quest for excellent environmental stewardship in:


  • Preserving natural resources

  • Reducing energy consumption

  • Conserving water

  • Supporting a circular economy 

What is karat?

Karat , which is often denoted by the arcane symbol “K”, refers to gold's purity .


Imagine a perfect golden sphere crafted by the gods. This would be 24K, the purest form of gold, untouched by other metals. A testament to true beauty.


As we descend through the spectrum of karats, this pure gold becomes infused with other precious metals. The lower the karat number, the more diverse the alloy with less gold.


Jewelry alchemists in the United States agree that 10K is the minimum at which a precious metal may be considered “gold”. 

What are your gold options?

The North Way Studio offers a wondrous collection of golden tones: 

14K White Gold: The Frost Knight 

A ring that captures the cool gleam of moonlight on snow. Our precious metal blend contains 59% pure gold alloyed with nickel*. Choose white gold for a ring that will be crowned with colored jewels or cooler toned diamonds.


*For those with sensitive skin, we suggest exploring platinum or palladium alternatives.

A 14k white gold ring with hand carved leaves in its band.

Consider...

14K Yellow Gold: The Sun's Treasure

The warmth of a summer's day captured in a band. Our 14k yellow gold alloy comprises 59% pure gold mixed with silver and copper. This gold offers the perfect balance of resplendent color and steadfast strength for all gemstones.

A 14k gold ring with an impression of a leaf near the base of the ring.

Consider...

14K Rose Gold: The Blush of Dawn

The tender first blush of an awakening rose. Our 14k rose gold alloy is an enchanting blend of 59% pure gold and copper*. It offers a uniquely romantic aura that radiates especially with green or teal hued gems and warmer toned diamonds.

*For those with sensitive skin, consider exploring our other gold hues.

A 14k rose gold with intricate leaves carved in its band.

Consider...

18K White Gold: The Celestial Dance

The heart of the cosmos where stardust dances with moonbeams. This ethereal metal contains 75% pure gold alloyed with bits of nickel. Its higher gold content results in a warmer undertone and a softer feel than the 14k white gold, evoking the gentle touch of a cloud. This color reveals textures beautifully, so if you’re looking for patterns like bark or leaves, this may be the hue for you.

An 18k white gold band in a floral design.

Consider...

18K Yellow-Green Gold: The Mythical Serpent

The glint of scales amongst the trees of an ancient autumnal forest. A rare and captivating alloy composed of 75% pure gold mixed with 21% silver and a touch of copper. An 18k yellow green gold ring carries the allure of the uncommon.

An 18k yellow gold engagement ring reminiscent of a rose.

Consider...

18K Yellow Gold: The Dragon's Hoard

The pinnacle of golden splendor. A metal worthy of a dragon's hoard. Our 18k yellow gold gleams with the intensity of a thousand suns. Its rich, warm tone is a testament to its impressive 76% pure gold content. Adorn yourself with this piece of legendary treasure. 

An 18k yellow gold ring with intricate leaves carved onto the band.

Consider...

Your Golden Legacy

The North Way Studio transforms these ancient metals into talismans that carry the weight of history and the promise of tomorrow. Each reclaimed gold ring tells not only your story but continues the legacy of the precious metal itself.


Whether you're drawn to the moonlit gleam of white gold, the warm radiance of yellow gold, or the romantic blush of rose gold, we're here to help you choose the perfect metal for your treasured piece.