Electrum Appearance
Natural electrum ranges in color from pale gold to bright gold, depending on the amount of the element gold present in the alloy. Brassy-colored electrum contains a higher amount of copper. Although the ancient Greeks called the metal white gold, the modern meaning of the phrase "white gold" refers to a different alloy that contains gold, but appears silvery or white. Modern green gold, consisting of gold and silver, actually does appear yellowish -green. Intentional addition of cadmium may enhance the green color, although cadmium is toxic, so this limits the uses of the alloy. Addition of 2% cadmium produces a light green color, while 4% cadmium yields a deep green color. Alloying with copper deepens the color of the metal.