How well do you know your gold?

Or more importantly the carat (not to be confused with the unit of weight for gemstones) is a measure of the purity of gold. Here's a breakdown of the different gold carats you may have amongst your most treasured possessions.  

9ct Gold

Contains 37.5% gold. More durable and affordable than higher carats.  Suitable for everyday wear.  Commonly used for earrings and other pieces that may undergo more wear and tear.

14ct Gold

Contains 58.3% gold.  Balances durability and richness of color.  Suitable for a variety of jewelry, including rings and necklaces.

18ct Gold  

Contains 75% gold.  Considered high quality and more expensive.  Well-suited for fine jewelry like engagement rings and necklaces.  

22ct Gold 

Contains 91.7% gold.  Very soft and not commonly used for jewelry in Western countries.  Popular in traditional and cultural jewelry.

24ct Gold 

Pure gold, containing 99.9% gold.  Extremely soft and not practical for most jewelry.  Often used for coins, bullion, or in plating for other jewelry.

What to consider when choosing your Carat

• Special Occasions (18ct): Engagement rings, wedding bands, and other special occasion jewelry.
• Traditional or Cultural (22ct): Often used in traditional jewelry designs and can include necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
• Investment or High-End Jewelry (24ct): Rarely used in its pure form due to its softness, but may be used for coins, bullion, or in small amounts for detailing on high-end pieces.

It's important to note that the higher the gold content, the softer the metal, making it more susceptible to scratches and dents. The choice often depends on personal preferences, budget, and the intended use of the jewelry.