Your guide to wedding anniversary jewellery gifts by year

Mined Gold: About half the world's gold is mined in South Africa. Significant quantities are also found in the USA, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China and Russia.

Recycled Gold: As it is virtually indestructible, nearly all of the gold ever mined is theoretically still accessible in one form or another and potentially available for recycling. You might own some gold that can be recycled into a new piece!

Fairtrade Gold: Fair trade gold is a certification that ensures the gold used in jewellery has been sourced responsibly and mined with respect for human rights and the environment. The certification guarantees that miners receive fair wages, work in safer conditions, and have access to education and healthcare. Additionally, fair trade gold promotes environmental protection by requiring sustainable mining practices, such as reducing the use of toxic chemicals and preserving biodiversity. I really like using Fair trade gold with my ethically mined gems and I know my clients value this option too.

A karat (or carat) is the term used to describe how pure the gold is in a piece of jewellery.

Pure gold is 24 karat (k), but it is also very soft, so it is mixed into an alloy with other metals to make it stronger and more durable for wear in jewellery and watches.

Most gold jewellery in the UK is either made in 18k or 9k, but other karats are popular in jewellery made around the world.

18k yellow gold is made of 75% pure gold with the final 25% an alloy (such as silver, copper, and zinc). The silver and copper help to harden the gold, and zinc prevents oxidation that can cause the metal to tarnish.

A 9k gold alloy contains 9/24ths pure gold (37.5%), while the rest of the alloy is made up of another metals.

In yellow gold alloys, the combination of gold, silver, copper and zinc produces a bright golden yellow colour that is highly resistant to corrosion and scratching.

Rose gold alloys have a higher percentage of copper compared to the silver and zinc content, to give it that delicate warm pinky hue.

White gold alloys substitute nickel, manganese or palladium for the copper and silver used in yellow gold. These alloys produce a pale silvery-white gold popular for jewellery. The precious metal rhodium is also applied as plating to white gold alloys to harden the gold and enhance its pure whiteness.

Most precious metals look their best when they have been polished to a high shine, however a brushed, hammered or other textured effect can be used to create something more artisanal.