The only time I buy something in 10k is when it's an estate piece. I have a couple of things from the Art Deco era that are very pretty, and in 10k, but they're also valued for being antique too. But current 10k is well, icky.
To me, 18k is the prettiest, and if you ever go overseas, some countries have exquisite folk jewelry that is made from that mix. To me, the biggest thing about buying stones and jewelery is that....YOU CAN WEAR IT! WHOO HOO!
Heck, it ain't an investment to me, it's just another addition to the sparklies in my life :)
BRAVA....great attitude and great post! :-)