Gold Purity Explained: 18K vs 22K vs 24K – Which is Best?
When you step into a jewellery store, terms like 18K, 22K, and 24K can be confusing. What do these karats mean? Which one should you choose? Understanding gold purity is essential for making the right purchase—whether for jewellery, investment, or gifts. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Does Karat Mean in Gold?
Karat (K) refers to the purity of gold in an item. Pure gold is 24 Karat (24K), meaning it contains 99.9% gold with almost no other metals. Since pure gold is very soft, jewellers mix it with other metals like copper, silver, or zinc to make it stronger.
18K Gold
- Purity: 75% gold
- Composition: 25% other metals
- Best For: Daily-wear jewellery (strong and durable)
22K Gold
- Purity: 91.6% gold
- Composition: 8.4% other metals
- Best For: Traditional jewellery (good balance of purity and strength)
24K Gold
- Purity: 99.9% gold
- Composition: Nearly pure gold
- Best For: Investment purposes like coins and bars (too soft for jewellery)
Price Factor: Does Purity Mean Expensive?
Yes. Higher karat means higher price because of more gold content. 24K is the most expensive, followed by 22K, and then 18K. If you want durability and style without breaking the bank, 18K is a smart choice.
How to Choose Between 18K, 22K, and 24K Gold
- Choose 18K for daily wear and durability.
- Go for 22K for traditional jewellery with higher purity.
- Opt for 24K only if you’re investing in gold, not wearing it.
When buying, always look for BIS hallmark certification to ensure purity. It’s your best guarantee against fraud.
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