Black Gold – Myth or Reality?

There’s something mysterious and almost magical about black gold, as if it came from an ancient fairy tale. In the world of jewelry, however, this term has long captured the imagination, sparking a question: Does black gold really exist?

The answer is – yes and no.

Pure gold, in its natural form, is always yellow. That is its true color, created by the way gold reflects light. In its purest state, gold cannot be black, white, or red. But the beauty of gold lies in its ability to transform, to be alloyed, shaped, treated, and refined until it takes on an entirely new character.

Like a night sky traversed by streaks of stars, the diamonds on the dark surface shimmer with their own unique, almost mystical energy.

How is “black” gold made?

What we call black gold is not a different type of gold, but gold that has been surface-treated to achieve a deep, dark, and dramatic appearance. Most often, this is achieved with a layer of black rhodium, which gives the metal its distinctive metallic-black sheen. Some alloys include small amounts of cobalt or iron to produce a darker hue; however, such methods are rarely used, as they are complex and less durable for everyday wear.

Black gold is therefore a blend of nobility, contrast, and bold modernity, a perfect choice for those who seek something different, daring, and refined at the same time.

A ring where black rhodium forms the night sky, yellow gold stars shimmer across it, and blue sapphires sparkle like cosmic lights.

Black Rhodium – Our Dark Shine

At Atelje DR, we often use black rhodium, applied as a final layer on various shades of gold. We love to explore contrasts. Black rhodium with yellow gold recalls a solar eclipse; with white gold, it resembles moonlight against a dark sky, and with rose gold, it shimmers softly like stardust. When these tones intertwine, something truly cosmic emerges. Black gold, created through black rhodium, becomes a bridge between light and darkness, a harmony where opposites complement one another. Each piece carries within it a fragment of the universe, a quiet pulse of mystery that continues to inspire us.

Centered in darkness, edged in gold, a symbol of contrast and harmony embodied in a single piece.

The Mysterious Nature of Black Rhodium

Rhodium is a tough and noble metal from the platinum family, known for its resistance and luxurious brilliance. It allows us to transform classic gold into something entirely new, a deep, silky black tone that still reflects light while adding mysterious depth. Each application is unique, like a brushstroke on metal. This is how our pieces come to life, filled with balance, light, and shadow.

Cosmic elegance: a dark surface, golden accents, and a precious diamond, all united in one refined cufflink.

Over time and with wear, the layer of black rhodium can naturally soften, revealing gentle highlights of the gold beneath. This creates a beautiful, slightly rustic patina that many find even more charming, a mark of time and personal story. And if one prefers the original deep black sheen, the coating can always be renewed, bringing the piece back to its first, cosmic glow.

Black rhodium is like the night itself, quiet, elegant, reserved, yet irresistibly captivating. It carries both calm and energy, which is why it became the essence of our Universe Collection, inspired by the infinity of space, the motion of planets, and the shimmer of stardust.

The blend of black gold, golden shimmer, and colorful stones carries a sense of mystery and enchantment.

Black Gold is no myth.

Black Gold is no myth. It is a fusion of knowledge, artistry, and a refined sense of aesthetics. Within it merge the warmth of fire, the patience of skilled hands, and a touch of alchemy – that hint of mystery we at Atelje DR love to keep alive.