Precious Metal Guide
Precious Metal Guide
Understanding your options
Choosing the right precious metal is an important part of creating a piece of jewellery that feels personal, practical and designed to last a lifetime.
At Holts Jewellery, we work exclusively with precious metals including platinum and solid gold in 9ct and 18ct yellow, white and rose gold. Every ring is handcrafted using quality materials chosen for both their beauty and durability.
Whether you are selecting an engagement ring, wedding band or bespoke piece, understanding the differences between metals can help you decide which option best suits your lifestyle and aesthetic.
Understanding Gold Purity
Gold purity is measured in carats (ct), an ancient system based on 24 parts.
For example:
- 24ct gold = pure gold
- 18ct gold = 18 parts gold and 6 parts alloy
- 9ct gold = 9 parts gold and 15 parts alloy
You may also notice jewellery hallmarked with numbers such as 375, 750 or 950. This is the modern millesimal system, which describes how many parts per thousand are pure precious metal.
For example:
- 375 = 9ct gold (37.5% gold)
- 750 = 18ct gold (75% gold)
- 950 = platinum (95% platinum)
Gold
Pure 24ct gold is naturally very soft, so additional alloys are added to improve durability and create different colours such as yellow, white and rose gold.
At Holts Jewellery, we offer 9ct and 18ct gold in white, yellow and rose tones.
9ct Gold (375)
9ct gold contains 37.5% pure gold combined with strengthening alloys, making it a durable choice for everyday wear.
Available in yellow, white and rose gold, 9ct is slightly lighter in colour than 18ct gold, particularly in yellow gold designs. White gold is finished with rhodium plating to achieve its bright white appearance.
Our white gold is Grade 1 standard, chosen to help maintain its colour and minimise yellowing over time.
9ct gold is often chosen for its balance of durability, practicality and classic appearance.
18ct Gold (750)
18ct gold contains 75% pure gold, giving it a richer colour and a slightly heavier feel than 9ct gold.
Yellow gold in 18ct has a deeper, warmer tone, while white and rose gold offer a softer luxurious finish. It is an excellent choice for fine jewellery and engagement rings, combining beauty with durability for everyday wear.
Over time, 18ct gold may develop fine surface marks through daily wear, adding to the character of the piece without detracting from its design.
Platinum
Platinum (950) is one of the most durable precious metals used in jewellery and is particularly well suited to engagement rings and wedding bands worn every day.
Containing 95% pure platinum, it has a naturally white tone that does not require rhodium plating. Platinum is denser and heavier than gold, giving it a substantial feel on the hand.
It is highly resistant to wear and naturally holds diamonds securely, making it an ideal choice for fine jewellery designed to last a lifetime. Over time, platinum develops a soft patina through everyday wear, which many people love for its understated character.
Which metal should I choose?
Choosing between platinum, yellow gold, white gold or rose gold often comes down to personal preference, lifestyle and how the jewellery will be worn.
If you are pairing a wedding ring alongside an engagement ring, we usually recommend choosing the same metal for both rings. Different metals wear at different rates and can gradually wear against one another over time.
During your appointment, founder and jewellery expert Melissa Holt will guide you through the different options to help you choose the right precious metal for your piece.
Visit Our Bath Showroom
If you would like to compare different precious metals in person, you are welcome to book a private appointment at our Bath showroom.
You can try on different wedding rings and engagement ring styles, explore colour tones and finishes, and receive expert guidance in a relaxed setting.
