Cast
The method in which metals are poured or forced into molds which have cavities in the shape or form of the articles to be produced. Of the various casting processes, lost-wax casting is the one most commonly used. Lost-wax casting means the item is first sculpted from wax. The original wax sculpture, or a copy of it, is then used to make a mold and is lost in the actual casting process (thus the name lost wax casting).

Die Struck
The method in which metals are mechanically hammered into hardened steel dies to produce definite impressions. This process is used on a lot of signet rings.

Gold Filled & Rolled-Gold Plate
Continuous plates of metal are covered mechanically by means such as soldering, brazing, or welding. The karat gold used is at least 10kt fine, and this gold covering can be applied to one or more surfaces of the base metal. Many quality costume jewelry manufacturers use this process to imitate the karat gold look of fine jewelry. Gold filled or rolled gold jewelry is not as durable as karat fine jewelry, however, because the actual layer of gold on the item is extremely thin.

Gold Electroplate
Electroplate is the process of affixing a plate or layer of fine gold onto a base of metal by an electrolytic process (uses electricity and chemicals). This process can be used to improve appearance and to prevent disintegration. Since the gold plate used won't stick to most gemstones, you can have your problem costume jewelry plated to improve its appearance, or to help if you are experiencing discoloration from your costume or fine jewelry onto your skin. Like gold plate, this process imitates the karat gold look of fine jewelry, but is not as durable due to the thin layer of gold.

Here at Mrs. Gottrocks, all our jewelry is clearly marked as to the karat of the gold so you are sure your purchase is the right one. We hope this information has been of assistance to you. Please feel free to email us with your questions or suggestions for future topics.