14 karat or 18 karat gold: differences and which to choose

Karats state how much pure gold is in an alloy. The difference between 14 and 18 affects color, durability and price.

Purity #

18 karat gold is 75% gold (stamp 750). 14 karat is 58.5% (stamp 585). The rest is other metals, such as copper, silver or palladium.

Color #

18K has a richer, more intense tone. 14K is slightly paler in yellow gold, although in white and rose gold the difference is smaller.

Hardness #

14K is harder and resists scratches and knocks better, so it is usually better for everyday rings. 18K is softer.

Price #

18K costs more because it contains more gold.

Sensitive skin #

18K has less alloy metal, so it is a good option if you are allergic to metals.

Which to choose #

For durability in an everyday piece, 14K. For color and higher purity, and if you will look after the piece, 18K.

See also #

• Jewelry hallmarks and stamps: what 925, 750 or 585 mean
• Gold plated, gold filled, vermeil and solid gold: differences
• Gold