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

When you're buying (or selling) gold, the terms 14K, 18K, and 24K quickly come to mind. 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 tells you how much of the metal is actually pure gold. Pure gold consists of 24 parts gold – that is, 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 carat gold

24K gold is 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 jewelry that will be worn every day – such as rings or bracelets.

18 carat gold

18K gold is made up of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals. This is a popular choice for wedding rings and high-end 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 alloy metals.
This makes it a practical and durable choice, especially for everyday jewelry. The color is slightly lighter and less “yellow” than 18K, but many people actually prefer the modern tone.

No matter which type you choose, gold is always a timeless investment – ​​both in value and beauty.