Pure gold may sound like a wonderful idea, and it is certainly very valuable in any market, but it is still impractical in terms of jewelry making. The higher the gold content in any alloy, the more golden it will look, but it will also be fundamentally weaker. The various metals mixed with gold to create alloys all have different affects on the gold's inherit properties. For example, ‘white gold' is made of gold mixed with zinc, silver, nickel and platinum. These metals have a lightening affect on the gold, while copper and silver on their own will strengthen the color and produce ‘yellow gold'. This is a far better solution than attempting to wear pure gold over time. Any gold with a purity mark between 20 to 24 karats is extremely susceptible to bending and it will definitely warp its shape over time. Even the most fastidious use of it will not protect it from reacting to mere body warmth. In the U.S the most recommended karat content is between 14 to 18 karats. This assures you of a lovely gold color but also of durability over time.