International Gold Karat Purity
Karat, abbreviated as “K” or “kt,” is a unit of measurement used to express the purity of gold and its gold content. It is a term widely used in the jewelry industry to indicate the proportion of pure gold in an alloy.
The international standard for gold karat purity is based on a division of 24 parts, where each part represents 1/24th of pure gold. Pure gold, also known as 24-karat gold, is considered 100% pure and has a fineness of 99.9%.
The following table outlines the karat purity and corresponding gold content:
| Karat (K) | Purity | Gold Content |
|—|—|—|
| 24 | 100% | Pure gold |
| 22 | 91.7% | 22 parts gold, 2 parts other metals |
| 18 | 75.0% | 18 parts gold, 6 parts other metals |
| 14 | 58.3% | 14 parts gold, 10 parts other metals |
| 10 | 41.7% | 10 parts gold, 14 parts other metals |
Gold alloys are created by mixing pure gold with other metals, such as silver, copper, or zinc, to enhance durability, color, and workability. The lower the karat value, the more alloy metals are present in the mixture, resulting in a lower gold content.
Common Karat Purities for Jewelry
* 24 karat (99.9%): Used in bullion and collectible coins. Not suitable for jewelry due to its extreme softness.
* 22 karat (91.7%): Used for high-end jewelry that is prized for its purity and value.
* 18 karat (75.0%): A popular choice for jewelry as it offers a good balance of durability and purity.
* 14 karat (58.3%): The most widely used karat purity for jewelry in the United States. It provides a reasonable level of durability and cost-effectiveness.
* 10 karat (41.7%): Used in budget-friendly jewelry or for pieces that require greater durability, such as rings and bracelets.
The karat purity of gold jewelry is often stamped on the piece itself or on its accompanying tag. Understanding the karat purity of gold can help consumers make informed choices when purchasing jewelry, ensuring that they are aware of the gold content and value of the piece.
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