Understanding Karats: A Guide to Gold Purity

What "Karat" Really Means

The purity of gold is measured in karats (K). This system represents the ratio of pure gold to other metals (alloys) in an item, divided into 24 parts. Understanding this is key to knowing the true value of your gold.

• 24K Gold (99.9% Pure): This is pure gold. It's very soft, making it susceptible to scratches and damage. It's primarily used for investment-grade bullion bars and coins rather than everyday jewelry.
• 22K Gold (91.7% Pure): Containing 22 parts gold and 2 parts other metals, 22K is a popular choice for high-end jewelry in many cultures. It has a rich yellow hue and is more durable than 24K gold.
• 18K Gold (75.0% Pure): With 18 parts gold and 6 parts alloy, 18K gold offers an excellent balance of purity and strength. It's the standard for fine European jewelry.
• 14K Gold (58.3% Pure): Composed of 14 parts gold and 10 parts alloy, 14K is very durable and the most popular choice for jewelry in the United States.
• 10K Gold (41.7% Pure): This is the minimum legal standard for gold in the US. It's extremely durable but has a lower gold content and a paler yellow color.

Why Are Alloys Added?

Alloys like copper, silver, nickel, and zinc are mixed with gold not only to increase its durability but also to alter its color. For example, adding more copper creates rose gold, while alloys like palladium or nickel produce white gold.

When you value a gold item, you're primarily valuing its pure gold content. Our Purity Calculator can help you determine the exact "melt value" of your items based on their weight and karat.