The difference between 14K, 18K and 24K gold

When buying (or selling) gold, the terms 14K, 18K, and 24K quickly come up. But what do these numbers actually mean, and how do they affect color, price, and quality?

What does “karat” mean in gold?

Karat (K) is a unit of measurement that indicates the proportion of the metal that is actually pure gold. Pure gold consists of 24 parts gold – i.e., 24 karats. However, because pure gold is a very soft metal, it is usually mixed with other metals such as silver or copper to make it stronger and more resistant.

24 karat gold

24K gold consists of 99.9% pure gold. This gold has an intense, warm yellow color and is most often used in gold bars, investment gold, and some jewelry in Asia and the Middle East. The disadvantage is that it is very soft, and therefore not as suitable for everyday jewelry such as rings or bracelets.

18 karat gold

18K gold consists of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals. This is a popular choice for wedding rings and exclusive jewelry, as it combines high value with better durability. The color is still deep and warm, but slightly less yellow than 24K.

14 karat gold

14K gold consists of 58.5% pure gold and the rest alloying metals. This makes it a practical and durable choice, especially for everyday jewelry. The color is slightly lighter and less "yellow" than 18K and 24K.

No matter which type you choose, gold is always a timeless investment!