Understanding Gold Jewellery

CARAT OFFICIAL - Understanding What You Buy

Types And Qualities Of Gold

Gold has long been revered as one of the most precious metals in the world, highly valued in jewelry-making for its beauty and rarity. However, not all gold is the same—its quality and characteristics vary depending on its purity and alloy composition. Understanding these distinctions is essential for making informed choices when purchasing fine jewelry.

Explaining Gold Purity

Gold purity is typically measured in karats (k), which should not be confused with carats (ct), the unit used to measure gemstone weight. Pure gold is 24 karats (24k), meaning it is 100% gold. However, because pure gold is naturally soft and malleable, it is often mixed with other metals to enhance its durability and create various shades.

Karats	Gold Content	Millésimal Fineness	Classification
24k	100%	1000	Pure Gold
18k	75%	750	1st Grade => CARAT OFFICAL
14k	58.5%	585	2nd Grade
9k	37.5%	375	Lower Grade

In Spain, 18k and 14k gold are the most commonly used in fine jewelry and are regulated by law. Gold of 9k purity is also legally sold, though it contains less than half gold in its composition and may cause allergic reactions or tarnish over time. In some countries, such as the United States, 9k gold cannot be legally marketed as "gold" due to its low purity level.

Gold Alloys And Their Colors

While pure gold (24k) is naturally yellow, its color can change when mixed with other metals. This blending process, known as alloying, allows for increased strength and the creation of diverse gold tones.

Gold Types Based on	Common Alloying Metals
Yellow Gold:	Silver and Copper
Rose Gold:	Silver and Copper (higher copper content)
Red Gold:	Copper Only
White Gold:	Nickel, Palladium, Platinum, Silver

Each jeweler may use a slightly different alloy formula, which can result in subtle variations in color, hardness, and cost.

 

Choosing The Right Gold For You

The best type of gold depends on personal preference, budget, and intended use. If you're looking for luxury, durability, and timeless appeal, 18k gold is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more affordable yet high-quality option, 14k gold offers a balance of durability and gold content.

Understanding gold’s purity, alloys, and properties allows you to make informed decisions, ensuring that your jewelry remains as valuable and beautiful as the day you acquired it.