When Was 9kt Gold Jewelry First Made? Victorian Era History & Quality

Question
Hello,
I came across a Victorian 9kt. gold ring today with an emerald. While it looks newer to me the seller insists it is "vintage". He cannot say when 9kt. gold began being made into jewelry. I was able to get that it is a regular in England and has more copper in it, but that is all.  I would like to know when it began to be made into jewelry? Was it in the Victorian Era or before as I was told? One reason I doubt it, was the quality of the emerald, it was cloudy for the size, 1/8th of ct. at best. During this period the quality for this size was still very good and very reasonable.  This one looked original to the setting, it was the setting that looked new. Can you help the consumers out?  Thank you.

Answer
Hello Pam and thank you for your inquiry. 9kt gold was popular during the Victorian era especially in England. However, it is still being made. If you are unsure of the quality of the metal or gemstone you should have it checked by a gemologist.  Below is a site relating to karat gold information that you may find interesting. Just copy and paste it into your browser address field and hit enter:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carat_(purity)

Here's another good site:

http://www.e-goldprospecting.com/html/what_is_a_karat.html

Hope this helps and enjoy your ring !