Top Jewelry Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction (Part I)

Shopping for jewelry can sometimes feel overwhelming, and not just because of the endless sparkle, but also because of the misconceptions that surround it. From gemstone symbolism to uncertainty about what truly qualifies as gold (and everything in between), it’s easy to feel confused when learning new jewelry terminology. Misconceptions can affect the way you shop because a lack of full understanding about a product makes you less comfortable purchasing it. And because jewelry purchases often mark life’s most meaningful moments–like engagements, weddings, and anniversaries–it’s important to separate fact from fiction. 

Jewelry has been worn for centuries, and over time it has gathered countless stories, traditions, and “rules” about what’s considered right, lucky, or off-limits. The thing is, not all of those stories hold true anymore. Making decisions based on old myths can end up costing you, not just financially but also emotionally. You might pass on a piece you really love for the wrong reasons. A friend or family member might tell you something they think is fact, but in reality is just a myth that’s stuck around. By knowing what’s true and what’s just old lore, you can enjoy jewelry the way it’s meant to be enjoyed–and without the confusion.

Let’s explore some of the most common jewelry myths. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring or treating yourself to something special, this article will help you separate fact from fiction and shop with confidence—without the confusion.

Myth #1: Diamonds Are Rare

Most marketing efforts hype up diamonds like they’re the most rare item on planet Earth. In reality, diamonds are not that rare. Yes, an internally flawless D color diamond is pretty rare, but most people aren’t looking to purchase that type of diamond. Diamonds are in fact one of the most common gemstones. However, that doesn’t mean they are inexpensive. Depending upon the 4Cs, diamonds can fetch quite the high price tag. The belief that diamonds are rare originally stemmed from marketing campaigns during the 20th century. This idea has stuck around as it isn't usually challenged. 

Myth #2: Gold Only Comes in Yellow

When people think about gold, they think about a bright yellow metal, but the truth is that gold comes in a variety of colors. The gold used in most jewelry is an alloy, which is a mixture of metals. Alloys are used in fine jewelry in order to make metals stronger and to change their color. For gold, depending upon the karat, different percentages of alloy vs. metal are mixed together.

• Yellow Gold: Yellow gold is created by mixing 24 karat gold with copper and zinc. 

• White Gold: White gold is created by mixing 24 karat gold with either palladium (which creates a hypoallergenic metal for people who are allergic to nickel), nickel, or silver. White gold has a white hue, but to achieve a bright white color, it is often plated with rhodium and will need to be re-plated every so often depending upon the skin chemistry of the wearer. 

• Rose Gold: Rose gold is created by mixing 24 karat gold with copper, which gives the metal a pink hue. 

• Green Gold: Green gold is created by mixing 24 karat gold and silver, which gives the metal a slightly green tint, but looks very close to yellow gold. 

Myth #3: Pearls Are Outdated

For years, pearls have carried the reputation of being “grandma’s jewelry,” but that stereotype doesn’t hold up anymore. Today’s pearls come in so many varieties that they’ve become a modern staple for people of all ages. Beyond the classic white strand of Akoya pearls, there are colorful freshwater pearls in pinks and purples, dramatic black Tahitian pearls with green or silver overtones, and even oversized golden South Sea pearls. Irregularly shaped baroque and Keshi pearls have also become especially popular, giving a more modern, organic feel to pearl jewelry.

Definitely not just worn by senior citizens, pearls are now being used to accessorize high fashion attire on runways and in contemporary jewelry designs.

Myth #4: With Diamonds, Bigger is Always Better

When it comes to shopping for a diamond, a lot of people believe that bigger is always better. Yes, a large stone will certainly catch your eye, but the beauty of a diamond really depends more on the cut quality than the carat weight. A diamond with an ideal or very good cut grade is bound to sparkle and be more eye-catching than a poorly cut diamond that is twice as large. This is because the cut determines how light travels through the diamond, creating brilliance, fire, and scintillation. When you’re deciding between different diamonds, it’s normal to consider carat weight, but you should also pay attention to the cut quality. 

Myth #5: Engagement Rings Can Only be Set with Diamonds

It may feel like diamonds are the only option for engagement rings today, but that wasn’t always the case. The diamond engagement ring tradition is actually more recent than many people realize. While engagement bands can be traced back to ancient Egypt, the first documented diamond engagement ring appeared in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave one to Mary of Burgundy. For centuries afterward, diamond rings were reserved for royalty and the wealthy. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that diamonds became more accessible and established themselves as the standard choice for engagements in American culture.

But diamonds aren’t the only option. Many couples today are opting for sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or other gemstones as center stones—whether for their symbolic meanings, unique colors, or personal preferences. Some people choose their birthstone, others choose a gemstone that is their favorite color. Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are also very popular as more affordable alternatives. 

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, you should enjoy your jewelry instead of worrying about outdated myths. Whether it’s the idea that diamonds are extremely rare, that gold only comes in yellow, or that pearls are outdated, these misconceptions can keep you from making choices that truly reflect your personal style. Jewelry has evolved alongside fashion and culture—and it will continue to change in the future. Instead of focusing on what has been said in the past, buy the jewelry that speaks to you and that you enjoy wearing.