An alloy combining two precious metals, known for their individual beauty and value, results in a material with unique properties. This combination often yields enhanced strength and durability compared to pure gold, which is relatively soft. Consider, for example, its use in jewelry where increased resistance to wear and tear is desirable.
This amalgamation offers several advantages, including altered color and melting point, providing jewelers and artisans greater flexibility in design and fabrication. Historically, this practice allowed for the creation of coinage when pure gold’s intrinsic value made small denominations impractical. Furthermore, the resulting material can be more cost-effective than using solely the more valuable metal, thus expanding accessibility.