Gold is a timeless metal that has been coveted by people for thousands of years. It has been used to create some of the most beautiful and valuable jewellery pieces in the world. However, solid gold jewellery can be quite expensive, which is why many people opt for rolled gold jewellery instead. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what rolled gold jewelry is and why it is a great alternative to solid gold.
What is Rolled Gold Jewellery?
Rolled gold jewellery is a type of jewellery that is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal (often brass or copper). The gold layer is usually between 1/20 and 1/4 of an inch thick however the gold thickness can vary. This layer of gold is then rolled out, which gives the jewellery its strength and durability. This type of layered gold was patented in England in 1817.
Why Choose Rolled Gold Jewellery?
The main reason people choose rolled gold jewellery over solid gold is its affordability. Rolled gold jewellery is significantly cheaper than solid gold jewelry, which makes it a great option for those who are on a budget but still want to enjoy the beauty and prestige of gold jewellery.
Another advantage of rolled gold jewellery is that it is much stronger than solid gold. This makes it ideal for jewelry items that will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear, such as lockets, rings and bracelets. Rolled gold jewellery is also much more scratch resistant than solid gold, which is important if you want your jewelry to look as good as new for many years to come.
Another great thing about rolled gold jewellery is that it is available in a wide range of styles and designs. Whether you are looking for a classic, timeless piece or a more contemporary, trendy item, you are sure to find a rolled gold jewelry piece that suits your style.
How to Care for Rolled Gold Jewellery
Rolled gold jewellery requires very little maintenance, but there are a few things you should keep in mind if you want to keep your jewellery looking its best.
First, avoid exposing your rolled gold jewellery to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine and bleach. These chemicals can damage the gold layer and cause it to lose its shine.
Second, store your rolled gold jewellery in a safe, dry place. Avoid exposing it to moisture, which can cause it to tarnish.
Finally, clean your rolled gold jewellery regularly using a soft cloth and a mild soap and water solution. Dry your jewellery thoroughly after cleaning it to prevent tarnishing.
Rolled Gold in The Victorian Period
The popularity of rolled gold jewellery dates back to the Victorian era, where it was widely used to create stunning pieces of jewellery that were both beautiful and affordable. During this time, many people were unable to afford solid gold jewellery, so rolled gold became a popular alternative.
Victorian jewellery is characterized by its ornate and intricate designs, and rolled gold was the perfect material for creating these elaborate pieces. Rolled gold allowed jewellers to create intricate filigree work, delicate engravings, and other intricate designs that would have been impossible to produce with solid gold. This made rolled gold jewellery a popular choice for creating intricate pieces such as brooches, necklaces, and earrings.
In addition to its affordability, rolled gold jewellery was also a popular choice because of its durability. The process of rolling the gold layer made it much stronger than solid gold, making it ideal for everyday wear, which is why we see so many rolled gold lockets. Due to the opening and closing mechanism of a locket having a rolled gold locket allows the locket to last longer as it has a base alloy metal structure. Victorian women often wore their rolled gold jewellery every day, and many of these pieces are still in excellent condition today, testimony to their durability and strength.
Today, rolled gold jewellery remains a popular choice for those who want to enjoy the beauty of gold without breaking the bank. With its affordability, durability, and timeless beauty, it is easy to see why rolled gold continues to be a popular choice for jewellery lovers everywhere. Whether you are looking to add a touch of Victorian elegance to your jewellery collection or just want to enjoy the beauty of gold at a more affordable price, rolled gold is the perfect choice.