What elements are commonly alloyed with gold for jewelry?

Gold is often alloyed with silver and copper to create jewelry, primarily because these metals enhance the strength and durability of gold while also altering its color properties. Gold in its pure form is quite soft and can easily be scratched or damaged; therefore, alloying it with other metals improves its physical characteristics for daily wear.

Silver is a common alloy that contributes to a lighter color and increased workability. Copper is also frequently used, and it can provide reddish hues to gold, particularly in rose gold variations. Zinc may be involved in some specific alloying processes, but it is not as prominently used in traditional gold jewelry making as silver and copper.

The other options include metals that are either not typically used with gold in jewelry making or do not serve the same purpose. For instance, metals like nickel and aluminum are not standard additions for gold jewelry and can have different reactivity and properties that may not complement gold as well. Thus, the combination of silver, copper, and zinc in option B is the most appropriate choice for traditional gold alloys used in jewelry.