Karat (k, K or Kt) is the term used to measure gold purity. The higher the karat, the purer the gold. However, do you understand the difference between 24k, 18k, 14k and 10k gold? Let’s go into details and see what’s behind karats.
24K Gold
24k gold is pure gold. This means that all 24 parts in the gold are pure gold without traces of any other metals. It’s known to be 99.9% pure and has a bright yellow colour.
In fact, there is no higher form of gold than 24k. Since it’s the purest form of gold, it is more expensive than other types of gold.
However, 24k gold is softer and less durable compared to the gold of a lower karatage. Hence, it is not suitable for regular forms of jewellery.
18K Gold
18k gold contains 18 parts of pure gold and 6 parts of other metals added. It is 75% pure gold mixed with 25% of other metals like copper, silver etc.
Diamond and other studded jewellery is usually made in 18k gold. It’s the best choice for those who want to have the most amount of gold and still possess enough durability.
14K Gold
14k gold is the most popular choice for wedding and engagement rings. 14k gold contains 58.5% pure gold, it’s quite durable and will not scratch that easily as other types.
It has a beautiful yellow gold colour and you’ll have a hard time telling apart from 18k. Besides, it’s still comparably cheap.
14k gold is the best choice for those looking for the perfect balance between durability, price and look.
10K Gold
The first thing you should know about 10k gold is that it contains more alloy than pure gold. It has 41.7% pure gold and 58.3% other metals.
10k is the most durable option between others and it makes the best choice for people looking for the cheapest price.
However, most top vendors don’t even offer 10k gold, as it’s hard and not suitable for diamond and other gemstone jewellery.
Colours of Gold
24 karat gold has the natural bright yellow colour of pure gold. Colour cannot be changed without changing the purity of gold. Below is the list of metals used to achieve different gold colours.
• Rose gold is made by adding more copper in the alloy.
• Green gold is made by adding more zinc or silver.
• White gold is made by adding nickel or palladium.
