14K, 18K or 22K Gold Crosses: Which Best Reflects Your Faith?

Gold crosses have been used throughout the centuries to represent the message of the Christian faith. Worn as a beautiful piece of jewelry or used as a decorative wall-hanging, the cross represents a powerful declaration of the owner’s faith in Christ and His amazing sacrifice. Followers of Jesus often choose to wear something that represents who we are, especially in terms of our faith. Many factors come into play when deciding which gold cross to buy and whether to do so in 14K, 18K or 22K Gold. Durability, aesthetics, color and purity are key issues to consider. In this article we want to explain in a little more detail the differences between the various gold karat amounts and what they mean, so you are better informed for choosing your pendant.

Understanding the Purity of 14K, 18K, and 22K Gold Cross Pendants

The purity level in jewelry is measured by karats. The purest level in gold is 24K. Pure gold has been found to be too malleable to be used when creating jewelry so other compounds such as copper or silver have to be added to increase the strength. This combination of metals provides the best options for jewelry made of gold. The most frequently used gold versions are 14, 18 or 22K. So how does this translate to your gold cross pendant.

• 14K Gold Crosses: this level of karat is composed of 58.5% pure gold, with 41.5% other alloys. This is the strongest combination so is good for everyday wear. The use of other alloys also stops the 14k gold crosses from being easily scratched or bent. This level of karat would be a good option for those more concerned with durability than aesthetic value.
• 18K Gold Crosses: this version is 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals. Accordingly, it is a little softer than the 14K gold but still can be worn on a daily basis, especially if is designed with high-quality. Apples of Gold Jewelry makes sure that the design of our 18k gold crosses, even the higher karat pieces, are made thick and solid enough to ensure their durability, thereby reducing concern over softness.
• 22K Gold Crosses: this version is the highest purity level than can be used in jewelry. 22K Gold Cross Pendants consist of 91.6% pure gold, which does mean it is the softest option but it has the most beautiful color, rich, deep and luxurious.It may develop slight scratches over time but not any that a professional couldn’t polish away without losing the sheen and beauty the piece offers.

Durability and Quality: Apples of Gold Jewelry's Craftsmanship

When you decide which piece best represents you and your faith, it is important to decide on durability, purity and beauty and which qualities matter most. At Apples of Gold Jewelry, we deliberately commit to creating jewelry that lasts the test of time regardless of the level of karat used. So even though the higher levels of karat are softer, we design the pieces with enough thickness to make them durable. This craftmanship distinguishes them from jewelry that is made with lesser quality and mass-produced.

Color Differences Between 14K, 18K, and 22K Gold Crosses

In addition to the durability of a piece, another important factor to consider is the color as the different levels of purity also bring a slight change in hue.

• 14K Gold: this gold has a paler yellow color than the higher karats. It has a less striking appearance to it which may suit some people more.
• 18K Gold: this level of karat has a richer color. It produces a warmer and more traditional look. It combines a look of luxury with an appropriate representation of faith. This is a good option for the person wanting to make a bold statement of faith and still incorporates beauty.
• 22K Gold: Due to the highest level of karat used in jewelry, this one has the deepest, richest color. It reflects the purity of the gold and the holiness that symbolizes the walk of faith. The level of brilliance of 22K gold is a perfect reflection of the idea of refinement and perfection, just like the way gold is described in 1 Peter 1:7 as being refined by fire. This choice embodies well the richness of the Christian faith.

Gold Cross Pendants for Men and Women

Apples of Gold Jewelry offers a wide selection of gold cross pendants for men and women in different styles and varying levels of karats. One can choose from simple and plain to more intricate and ornate pendants.

• Gold Crosses for Men: designed in more masculine ways, these pendants are a little larger and thicker, representing the strength and spiritual leadership of the man. Each of the karat levels functions as a bold statement, indicating the wearer’s declaration of faith and desire to follow Christ.
• Gold Crosses for Women: these are designed more femininely to reflect a more delicate but still bold declaration of faith. They incorporate the important aspects of grace, nurturing and resilience of women. White or yellow gold are options depending on style preference.  

Apples of Gold Jewelry: A Tradition of Faith and Quality

Apples of Gold Jewelry delights in designing and producing fine gold cross pendants that are elegant, meaningful and lasting. You can choose between practical and very durable, or more elegant and regal but still strong. Every item is made with extreme care and craftmanship, made to last and bring pleasure for generations.

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