ALEXINE'S BUYERS GUIDE
14 Karat or 18 Karat gold?
When buying gold jewelry, you’ve probably come across terms like 14 karat and 18 karat, but what do they actually mean, and which one is best for you?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these two types of gold, including their purity, durability, color, price, and which fits your lifestyle best.
1. What does 'karat' mean?
“Karat” is a measure of gold purity. Pure gold is 24 karats, soft and unsuitable for most jewellery.
That’s why it’s mixed with other metals (like copper or silver) to create stronger alloys.
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14K gold = 58.5% pure gold, 41.5% alloy metals
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18K gold = 75% pure gold, 25% alloy metals
Higher karat = more pure gold and a richer color.
2. 14 karat gold features
14K gold is a popular choice for its balance between strength, price, and appearance. It’s especially common in everyday jewellery like rings and bracelets.
Pros of 14K gold:
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More resistant to scratches and wear due to the higher percentage of alloy metals.
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More affordable than higher-karat gold.
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Ideal for daily wear, especially in pieces that face frequent contact.
Things to consider:
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Less warm in color compared to 18K gold.
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Can be more brittle under pressure – while 14K is harder, it’s also less malleable, which means it may crack under strong force instead of bending.
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A bit less flexible. So while it resists scratches better, it’s slightly more prone to breaking if subjected to strong impact.
3. 18 karat gold features
18K gold is often chosen for its rich, luxurious look and higher gold content. It’s a favorite for high-end or special occasion pieces.
Pros of 18K gold:
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Deep, warm color due to its high gold content.
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Higher intrinsic value.
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Gentler on the skin – ideal for those with metal sensitivities.
Things to consider:
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Softer surface – more prone to minor scratches.
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More expensive due to the higher gold percentage.
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Less hard, but more ductile – it may bend slightly rather than crack, which can be a benefit for certain designs.