GOLD, PLATINUM, OR WHITE GOLD? Three metals have the desired standards for making timeless engagement rings: gold, white gold and platinum. Each metal has its own set of characteristics and features, and each has a respected place in fine jewelery. Yellow Gold Traditional gold is yellow in color and has a deep lustre when it is polished. Yellow gold is almost always melted together with other metals, called alloys, which provide greater strength, durability and color. Copper is the primary alloy used in yellow gold, allowing it to retain its natural color. Gold can be 10 karat, 14 karat, 18 karat, or 24 karat. 24 karat is 100% pure gold, is always yellow, and is almost never used to make rings. 18 karat is 75% pure gold and 25% alloy. 14 karat is 58% pure gold and 42% alloy. 10 karat is 43% pure gold with 57% copper alloy. Most fine jewelry is made of 14k or 18k gold.