A design trend that I’ve been noticing everywhere lately is rose gold! Both real rose gold and the colour are being used in a variety of design work. Another thing I noticed about rose gold is how beautifully it pairs with white marble (See my blog post about the white marble design trend here). This blush-hued precious metal appears more exotic and exclusive than the flashier gold and silver, and is complimentary to pastels, black and white, and neutrals like grey. The possibilities are endless.
I did a bit of research to see if I could find out what makes rose gold so trendy today, and to see if it has any unique history. Turns out that rose gold was once referred to as “Russian Gold,” because this uncommon ally was only worn by them at the time. It’s popularity can be traced back to the 19th century Russia where it was first worn.
Over the years this beautiful colour of jewelry grew in popularity, including during the Victorian Era where rose gold was worn often. It truly gained mainstream popularity in the 1920s when Cartier designed their famous “Trinity” ring; the ring was made of three intertwining bands of white, yellow and rose gold.
Eventually it’s popularity faded, white and yellow gold took over the scene. Now the jewelry world has been shaken again by this pink metal, and rose gold designs are offered from every major jewelry designer. This trend is beginning to influence all areas of design. The wedding industry is perfect example, you don’t need to search far on pinterest to find tons of rose gold themed wedding boards and invitations. Rose gold is used often in home decor to decorated all areas of the home.
1. Rose Gold Necklace 2. Skyer Gem Pendant, in Copper 3. ‘Tuscany’ Marble & Rose Gold Candle 4. Oola Rose Gold Terrarium
Not only has rose gold begun to trend in jewelry design, the fashion world in general has gained a liking to this blush colour. Rose gold has been used by a variety of fashion designers, even sportier ones like Adidas. The soft rose colour compliments any skin type, so it’s not surprise people love to wear it.
Rose gold has a unique vintage quality that works well paired with modern decor and all sorts of texture. See below how this copper roof compliments the plain wood of this architecture design, and makes a beautiful accent piece in a bathroom against a marble textured background.
You might already know I’m a Graphic Design student and be wondering why rose gold jewelry, decor, and the likes are relevant; because trends in any form of design often influence trends in graphic design. This is true for rose gold which is currently making it’s mark in both print and web graphic design. Take a look at a couple of examples below.
Take a look at this beautiful business card design for Gourmet Tucker, a deli located in Auckland. This design was created by the agency Supply, who have created a successful, minimal design that draws your attention from the beautiful rose gold block foil print treatment. The rose gold foil contrasts really well with the recycled looking paper.
I found this identity design by graphic designer Whitney Blake, which uses a beautiful colour palette that features rose gold as the star. This is another great example of beautifully designed stationary that used a rose gold foil.
I personally love this trend, although I don’t yet own anything rose gold myself. I would definitely use this trend for a design system if it was appropriate. What do you think about rose gold, is it here to stay or is it only just a trend? Are you a fan of the colour? Let me know what you think in the comment section below!
Thanks for reading 🙂
Sources:
The rose gold diamond ring pictured in the first image is available for purchase from etsy!
Rose-tinted Glasses 