18k gold is the perfect balance. It's neither too soft nor too hard. Pure gold -24k- is impressive, but it’s much softer, making it extremely vulnerable to scratches and deformation.
The jewelry I create is designed with durability in mind. I love seeing how it evolves over time, how the wear gives it a unique patina, but I don’t want it to fall apart or degrade. 18k provides that durability without losing the essence of gold. If you like oxidation (that beautiful patina that comes with time), you can go for silver, copper, or brass. But if you prefer your piece to maintain its lustre, 18k gold is the only option. Lower carat golds oxidize. Simple as that.
Lower carats?
14k or 9k gold has less purity, which directly affects its quality and durability. It oxidizes. Simple as that.
And oxidized gold isn’t what people imagine when they think of “real gold.”
You’ll notice it from day one. And even more as the years pass.
If you’re looking for something that truly lasts but want to avoid the cost of solid 18k, I’d rather offer you vermeil: Solid sterling silver with a thick coat of 24k gold.
It’s more honest. When the gold layer wears off, you simply replate it. Meanwhile, the silver beneath stays protected. You know exactly what you're wearing: not gold, but thick, beautiful gold-plated silver.
So, all clear: 18k gold is the only one I work with. It’s the perfect gold for me. It offers the perfect balance between the purity of the metal (75% gold) and the durability needed for everyday life. I don’t make fashion pieces, with all due respect; I create timeless sculptural pieces, for men, women, and for life. It’s a solid proposition, without compromises, in every sense. All my gold pieces are made of solid gold.
If you're looking for jewelry that withstands the test of time, maintains its lustre, and keeps looking spectacular, the choice is 18k, white or yellow, whichever you prefer. And if you like to see how it oxidizes and cleans up with use, then silver or, for some pieces, brass or bronze.
My proposal comes from an expressive need that turns into sculptural jewelry, and sometimes sculptures, given their size and weight. What I mean is that I make the proposal, and you turn it into a piece of jewelry. You choose the metal and how to wear it.
Either way, all jewelry requires care and attention. After all, they are jewels and should be treated as such. But enjoying them should always be the priority.