Myths vs. facts in the jewellery business

Here are some myths should not believe in:

• Biting is a suitable method to test out the authenticity of gold – No, there are other soft materials that can be coated with gold.

• Gold comes in different colours – No, real gold is yellow. Gold is alloyed with other metals to change its colour and strength.

• Diamonds are Indestructible – No, a diamond can be scratched and damaged by another tougher one.

• Diamond is the rarest gemstone in the World – No, high-quality emeralds, rubies, and sapphires as well as tanzanies and black opals (among others) are rarer in nature than diamonds.

• Sapphires are always blue - No, sapphires come in a wide range of colors.

Here are some interesting facts:

• The most common form of silver is sterling silver. This is actually only 92.5% pure silver, with the other 7.5% made up of copper.

• Silver is now rarer than gold.

• Silver is the most reflective element, reflecting 95% of the visible light spectrum.

• In ancient Egypt, silver was more valued than gold.

• Gold is the only metal that is yellow. Other yellow metals are alloys.

• All the gold ever mined would fit into a cube of 68ft.

• An Estimated 99% of Pearls on the Market Today are Cultured

• It takes at least six months to produce a pearl.