Precious Metal Purity

How pure your metal is.

Precious Metal Purity

The difference between 14k, 18k, 22k, 23k, and 24k jewelry is primarily in the purity of the gold used to make the jewelry. The karat is a unit of measurement that is used to describe the amount of pure gold in a piece of jewelry. Here's a breakdown of the differences between each karat type:

24k gold: This is the purest form of gold and contains 99.9% gold. It is the softest and most malleable type of gold, which makes it unsuitable for jewelry that is subjected to a lot of wear and tear.

23k gold: This type of gold contains 95.8% gold and is slightly harder than 24k gold. It is a popular choice for jewelry in Asia and the Middle East.

22k gold: This type of gold contains 91.7% gold and is harder than 24k and 23k gold. It is a popular choice for high-end jewelry and is known for its rich, deep color.

18k gold: This type of gold contains 75% gold and is a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. It is harder and more durable than 22k gold, and it has a beautiful, warm color.

14k gold: This type of gold contains 58.3% gold and is the most common type of gold used in jewelry in the United States. It is harder and more durable than 18k and 22k gold and is an affordable option for people who want high-quality gold jewelry.

In summary, the higher the karat, the more pure gold a piece of jewelry contains. However, higher karat gold is softer and more susceptible to wear and tear. Lower karat gold is harder and more durable but contains less pure gold. Ultimately, the choice between 14k, 18k, 22k, 23k, and 24k jewelry comes down to personal preference and budget.
Vishal Luthra
Author