1) We have all seen the ads touting "SOLID 14K GOLD." However, this is simply not true as there exists no such jewelry item containing solid 14k gold. Solid gold is as it exists when mined from the earth in an exceptionally pure form. It's entire make up is simply pure gold-or as defined in the modern world; 24 karat gold.

To attain the level of 14k gold, the chemist must dilute the pure 24k (1,000%) gold with a 'specification alloy' of approximately 415%. According to all worldwide acceptable standards- the pure gold has now been reduced to 14k gold, or in many countries .585 gold.

Following this formula, 18k gold must contain 750% pure gold, 250% alloy.

2) "Why did my brand new, solid 14k gold ring turn my finger green? My other 14k gold rings wear fine and are no problem."

There are two MAIN areas in which this problem can occur. Neither one is very nice. One, the ring may have a hallmark inside the shank indicating 14k, but could be anything but...The Jewelers Board of Trade, and the U.S. Customs Service are overwhelmed and undermanned and there is far too much fraud being perpetrated upon an unsuspecting purchaser by dishonest jewelers. Too many known instances whereupon the gold content is very, very low wherein the percentage of alloy simply overwhelms the gold content-thereby making such a "green finger" reaction possible.

Legitimate precious metal manufacturers are never knowingly involved in such nefarious proceedings. However, a shipment of alloy from their chemical company could inadvertently contain certain contaminated metals that could cause your "green finger." This is uncommon, but does exist.

3) "I'm truly confused. We looked at a number of 14k gold rings in well known fine jewelry stores with fine reputations and there seems to be no consistent shade of gold. How do I know which is the best 14k gold?" Excellent question and my answer to that will put your mind at ease.

Most precious metals manufacturers purchase all their metals from well established precious metal laboratories. Since the American market for precious metal jewelry is the world's largest-there are fine jewelry items on display from a multitude of countries with 1000s of manufacturers.

Pure 24k gold is a rather "yucky" color and these special precious metals chemists know exactly how to blend various metals to obtain the 'shade of gold' to their liking. The exception is "specification gold." Large retailers can specify the shade they prefer, and the chemist can create that specific shade with all the proper alloys at his disposal.

In our next exclusive "3 JEWELRY SECRETS...REALLY..."segment, I will continue to share my 50 year knowledge of the wonderful world of jewelry.

PS: STERLING SILVER IS UP NEXT. Please let us know your most important question(s.) We will try to help with knowledgeable answers...