Gemology Certification Jewelry Design & Precious Metals

Question 1

What does '18 karat' gold indicate about the metal's composition?

Accepted Answer

75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals

Answer

18% pure gold and 82% alloy metals

Answer

90% pure gold and 10% alloy metals

Answer

100% pure gold with 18 parts per thousand fineness

Question 2

What is the primary advantage of using platinum over white gold for gem settings in fine jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Platinum is denser, more durable, and hypoallergenic with no replating required

Answer

Platinum is less expensive and easier to work with

Answer

Platinum has a higher melting point making stone setting safer

Answer

Platinum provides a brighter white color due to its lower density

Question 3

In jewelry, what does the term 'prong setting' describe?

Accepted Answer

Metal claws that grip the girdle of a gemstone to hold it in place

Answer

A closed metal collar surrounding the entire base of a gemstone

Answer

A setting where the gem sits in a channel between two metal rails

Answer

A technique of hammering metal flush over the gem's girdle

Question 4

What is 'sterling silver' and what is its fineness mark?

Accepted Answer

92.5% pure silver alloyed with 7.5% copper, marked 925

Answer

95% pure silver alloyed with 5% copper, marked 950

Answer

100% pure silver, marked 999

Answer

80% pure silver alloyed with 20% copper, marked 800

Question 5

What setting type completely surrounds the girdle of a gemstone with a continuous wall of metal?

Accepted Answer

Bezel setting

Answer

Prong setting

Answer

Pavé setting

Answer

Tension setting

Question 6

What does the hallmark 'PT950' on a piece of jewelry indicate?

Accepted Answer

950 parts per thousand (95%) pure platinum

Answer

950 parts per thousand pure palladium

Answer

Gold plated to a thickness of 950 microns

Answer

Sterling silver with 950 fineness