18K Gold Chain

We always hear that a certain gold piece of jewelry is 18K or 24K or 14K. But what does this really mean?

Gold’s purity or amount of actual gold contained is measured in karat or “K” for short. This type of unit is usually used for jewelry. Pure gold is 24 carats. Depending on the gold content, other purities also exist that are measured against 24 carats. The more common purities are 10K, 14K and 18K. So 18K gold would mean 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metal. 14K gold would have 14 parts gold and 10 parts other metal and so on.

Be careful and do not mistake karat with the similar term carat. Though in some countries karat and carat are used interchangeably, strictly speaking carat is a unit of weight used for precious stones like diamonds and rubies.

Another way of expressing gold purity is “fineness”. This measures the purity of gold in parts per 1000. This type of measuring purity is usually used in gold coins and bars. You’ll notice this is bullion coins issued by different authorized mints, usually government run. The markings would say “.999 fine”.

As the gold is alloyed (the mixing of two or more metals) with other metals like copper, silver, nickel, etc. its purity diminishes so it is important to have a way to tell how many parts of gold there is.

To check the purity of gold in jewelry, try to look for markings on the piece itself. This could be done by stamping or engraving but before any “marking” of the gold alloy is done. The exact gold content must first be confirmed by tests. Testing gold for purity is called “assaying” and is done by qualified laboratories. Once this is done, the gold can then be called as “assayed” gold.

Knowing the purity of any piece of jewelry is important as this is where the gold’s value is calculated. And with a timeless chain design, your 18k gold chain should retain if not appreciate in value.

If you have any questions, do not be afraid to ask the store or seller and if needed ask for a written guarantee of the gold’s purity. This will give you peace of mind and when the time comes to sell your piece, you’ll have some documentary evidence to back up your claim on your piece’s purity.