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Discover red gold: an utmost elegant colour in jewellery

In the world of luxury accessories, red gold jewellery stands as a testament to timeless elegance. Whether you are a seasoned jewellery enthusiast or a fashion blogger seeking the next trend, red gold offers a unique blend of sophistication and allure. It is a sophisticated colour that is just that little bit unusual, eccentric and personal. Ideal for those who prefer to be unorthodox.  But what is red gold? And why is it so popular among both men and women?

 

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What Makes Red Gold Jewelry So Desirable?

Red gold jewelry offers a unique blend of sophistication and allure for those seeking something distinctive in luxury accessories. But what exactly is red gold? It's an alloy combining pure gold with other metals—primarily copper and sometimes silver—which gives it that characteristic warm, rosy hue. The exact ratio of these metals determines the depth of the reddish color.

This elegant metal has a rich history dating back to Peter Carl Fabergé, who first blended gold and copper for the Russian imperial family. Red gold enjoyed popularity in Victorian England and the 1920s, and is now trending again among millennials who appreciate its warmth and character.

Red gold stands out for several compelling reasons: it flatters all skin tones, offers excellent durability thanks to its copper content, provides a unique romantic appearance, and is nickel-free for those with allergies. At BAUNAT, this versatile metal is crafted into stunning engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

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The composition of red and gold jewellery

Pure gold is a metal that always has a yellow hue and is too soft to be intensively used for jewellery. Pure gold rings (24 carats) would scratch and dent in no time. Therefore, gold is melted with other metals to produce a more robust, durable result.

But what is red gold? Similar to yellow gold  and white gold, red gold is an alloy of the pure gold element, with a few other metals added, primarily silver and copper that lends the red gold its fabulous pink/pearl colour.
The desire for gold must be humanity's most universal, deep-rooted instinct.
Gerald M. Loeb
What is the composition of red gold? The gold, copper and silver ratio ultimately determines the colour of the jewellery. For example, a deep red gold 18 carat (ct) item of jewellery comprises 75% gold and 25% copper, whereas a rosier item of jewellery will comprise, say, 75% gold, 20% copper and 5% silver. Every goldsmith has their unique mix they adhere to.

What is the history behind red gold?

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Typical 18K red gold compositions (what the numbers mean)

18K means the alloy contains 75% pure gold (75% Au) and 25% other metals that set colour and behaviour. Common 18K mixes and how the trade often labels them:

- 18K red gold (approx.): 75.00% Au / 25.00% Cu  -  higher copper for a warm, saturated red tone.

The shorthand 2N, 3N, 4N, 5N (N for 'nines') relates to the relative proportions of copper and silver in the non-gold fraction and gives a quick indication of warmth and saturation. Makers vary exact ratios to achieve a desired hue and working properties such as finish and hardness. Hallmarks and maker documentation are the definitive source for a specific piece, since different workshops will tweak percentages to reach their signature tone.
bride and groom both wearing a stunning, versatility red gold wedding ring
We can attribute the 'discovery' of red gold to Peter Carl Fabergé, goldsmith and court jeweller to the last Russian tsars.  He is purported to have been the first to blend gold and copper. His best-known creations are the so-called Fabergé eggs: highly valuable eggs made of gold,  platinum and  precious stones that the tsars gifted at Easter.  There are 42 eggs left and are worth millions. Red gold is crafted into a few of them.

Find the perfect pair of red gold wedding rings here.

The red gold trend is nothing new. Its muted, romantic appearance made the precious metal extremely popular in Victorian England, as well as during the Roaring Twenties. Currently it is all the rage with millennials as the charm and warmth of red gold is perceived as a backlash to the minimalism that prevailed around the turn of the century. It embodies optimism, creativity and individuality.
a woman wearing stackable rings in red and white gold on her hand, a perfect mix and match
There's no reason of course why you can't combine different precious metals; so-called stackable rings have been popular for a long time now and can reflect your distinctive style perfectly.

Browse the collection of stackable rings here and combine away to your heart's content.

Reasons to opt for red gold jewellery

There are several good reasons to choose red gold jewellery. Whether you favour its aesthetic appeal, appreciate its historical value, or are drawn to its impressive craftsmanship, red gold offers something special for everyone. Let's delve into some compelling reasons to add red gold jewellery to your collection:

  • Unique aesthetic appeal: red and gold jewellery suits everyone really well. Whereas yellow gold is usually recommended for people with a warm, yellow skin tone and white gold accentuates a cooler, pink undertone, red gold complements both.

  • Outstanding durability: red gold will not lose its lustre. The copper in the alloy helps make red gold jewellery durable. Indeed, copper is a highly robust metal. This means red gold is relatively scratch-resistant and can take a knock or two. A repolish may be required from time to time, but generally speaking, red gold is regarded as an excellent choice for people with an active lifestyle.

  • Unique colour: whilst yellow gold boasts a traditional, timeless appearance, white gold is somewhat more contemporary, and red gold has a subtle, romantic, feminine aura. Red gold is a conscious choice.

  • Allergy-friendly: red gold is also perfect for people who are allergic to nickel; around 10% of the population in fact.

There's no reason of course why you can't combine different precious metals; so-called stackable rings have been popular for a long time now and can reflect your distinctive style perfectly.

Workability, finishing and everyday care

Owner guidance: simple steps keep red gold looking its best without professional intervention.

- Gentle cleaning: use warm water with a mild soap and a soft brush to remove daily grime; rinse well and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid strong household chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

- Patina and polishing: a soft patina can warm the metal; when deeper surface wear appears, a professional polish restores original lustre and removes light scratches.

- Storage and contact: store red gold separately to avoid abrasive contact with harder metals; remove jewellery for heavy manual chores or when using harsh cleaning agents.
 

Discover red gold jewellery at BAUNAT

In conclusion, red gold jewellery presents an exquisite option for various accessories, each carrying its unique charm.

Red gold engagement rings

For those looking to make a lifelong commitment, red gold engagement rings offer a romantic and sophisticated choice, symbolising eternal love with their warm hues.

Red gold earrings

Red gold earrings, whether dainty studs or dramatic chandeliers, provide a versatile addition to any jewellery collection, seamlessly transitioning from casual to formal settings.

Red gold necklaces

Red gold necklaces, from elegant pendants to statement pieces, can elevate any ensemble with a touch of vintage allure.

Red gold bracelets

Finally, red gold bracelets, whether intricate bangles or simple chains, add a refined elegance to both everyday wear and special occasions.

Ready to explore the world of red gold jewellery? Discover our exclusive collection and experience the luxury and sustainable craftsmanship that sets BAUNAT apart.

Which precious metals are there, and which will suit me best?

Read the blogs below to find out about other precious metals besides red gold, and which ones will complement you to perfection. Read all about their different attributes and how to wear and combine your jewellery.

  • Fabienne Rauw

  • BAUNAT Antwerp

  • Fabienne, manager of the German market is able to guide every client with finding the right jewel. She takes care of most of the German orders, but also takes other task on her plate. Thanks to her six  years of experience at BAUNAT she acquainted well with the product and the marketing around it. Her degree in PR ensures that BAUNAT is well presented across all media channels. For anyone looking into a new investment opportunity, Fabienne is the perfect guide in this process. No question will be left unanswered, and she will help you every step of the way.

    Selected Bespoke Projects

    • Eternal Bloom bespoke engagement concept - Role: project lead for client briefing and prototype coordination. Fabienne translated personal design references into a 3D-printed prototype, supervised stone selection and ensured the finished piece matched the client’s vision and comfort preferences.

    • Personalized anniversary necklace - Role: design coordinator and quality overseer. She managed the custom design process from the initial sketch to final polishing, liaising between client and workshop to preserve proportions and finish.

    • Reimagined heirloom ring restoration and redesign - Role: client consultant and technical coordinator. Fabienne guided the client through options to modernize setting details while keeping sentimental elements, delivering a wearable result that respected the original piece.

    Her hands-on involvement in bespoke commissions ensures each custom order has a clear brief, careful prototype review and close follow-up with the workshop, so clients receive a tailored jewel that meets both aesthetic and practical expectations.

    Professional enquiries

    For speaking engagements, press requests or research collaborations, please send your message to BAUNAT’s communications team with the subject line: "Fabienne Rauw  -  Professional Enquiry." Include a brief description of the request and any relevant dates or documents. The communications team will route enquiries to Fabienne and provide guidance on next steps.

Fabienne, manager of the German market is able to guide every client with finding the right jewel. She takes care of most of the German orders, but also takes other task on her plate. Thanks to her six  years of experience at BAUNAT she acquainted well with the product and the marketing around it. Her degree in PR ensures that BAUNAT is well presented across all media channels. For anyone looking into a new investment opportunity, Fabienne is the perfect guide in this process. No question will be left unanswered, and she will help you every step of the way.

Selected Bespoke Projects

• Eternal Bloom bespoke engagement concept - Role: project lead for client briefing and prototype coordination. Fabienne translated personal design references into a 3D-printed prototype, supervised stone selection and ensured the finished piece matched the client’s vision and comfort preferences.

• Personalized anniversary necklace - Role: design coordinator and quality overseer. She managed the custom design process from the initial sketch to final polishing, liaising between client and workshop to preserve proportions and finish.

• Reimagined heirloom ring restoration and redesign - Role: client consultant and technical coordinator. Fabienne guided the client through options to modernize setting details while keeping sentimental elements, delivering a wearable result that respected the original piece.

Her hands-on involvement in bespoke commissions ensures each custom order has a clear brief, careful prototype review and close follow-up with the workshop, so clients receive a tailored jewel that meets both aesthetic and practical expectations.

Professional enquiries

For speaking engagements, press requests or research collaborations, please send your message to BAUNAT’s communications team with the subject line: "Fabienne Rauw  -  Professional Enquiry." Include a brief description of the request and any relevant dates or documents. The communications team will route enquiries to Fabienne and provide guidance on next steps.