Choosing between 14kt and 18kt gold can be tough, but understanding the key differences in purity, durability, and appearance can help you find the perfect piece of jewelry. In this guide, we'll break down what sets these two popular options apart so you can make an informed choice.
First, Let's Talk About Gold Purity: 24 Karat Gold Explained
Before we can talk about the differences between 14kt and 18kt gold, it is essential to understand what 'pure' gold actually means. 24kt gold is considered pure gold, containing 99.9% gold and only trace amounts of other metals. The high purity gives it a rich yellow gold and makes it incredibly malleable and soft. While pure gold has a beautiful, deep yellow hue, it is too soft for everyday use. This is why pure gold typically is not worn daily, because it can easily scratch, bend, and lose shape over time.
To make gold more suitable for everyday jewelry, it is alloyed (mixed) with other metals, such as copper, silver, or zinc, to enhance its strength and durability. The karat system measures how much pure gold is in the alloyed mix.
- 14kt Gold: 14 out of 24 parts are pure gold, or 58.3% gold content. The other 41.7% is made up of metals that strengthen the gold and give it other desirable properties, such as hardness and resistance to tarnishing.
- 18kt Gold: 18 out of 24 parts are pure gold, or 75% gold content. Because of its higher gold content, 18kt Gold is more of a vibrant yellow gold and has a higher level of precious metal content.
Ok, Let's Talk About Durability...
When debating between 14kt or 18kt gold, you should consider durability for everyday wear. While 18kt gold has a higher gold content, 14kt gold is typically more durable due to its lower gold percentage and higher concentration of other metals like copper, silver or zinc. These additional alloys strengthen the material, making it more resistant to scratches, dents, and bending.
14kt gold is my personal recommendation for everyday jewelry, but 18kt gold is still an excellent choice; it is just softer and may require more attention to maintain its appearance.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Choose 14kt gold if:
- You want a durable piece that can withstand daily wear.
- You're looking for a more affordable option without compromising quality
- You prefer a lighter, more subtle gold color.
Choose 18kt gold if:
- You want a luxurious, high-quality piece with a deeper yellow hue.
- You're willing to invest more for a higher gold content.
- You want a material that is kind to sensitive skin, with fewer alloys mixed in.
"The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do."
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 14kt and 18kt gold?
The main difference lies in the purity of the gold. 14kt gold comprises 58.3% pure gold, while 18kt gold contains 75% pure gold. The higher the karat, the more gold is present in the alloy, affecting the metal's color, value, and softness.
Which is more durable, 14kt or 18kt gold?
14kt is generally more durable due to the higher proportion of alloy metals, which makes it stronger and more resistant to scratching or bending.
Is 18kt gold worth the extra cost compared to 14kt gold?
It entirely depends on personal preferences. While 18kt gold is more expensive because it contains more pure gold, 14kt gold offers excellent value with added durability for everyday wear.
Is 14kt gold hypoallergenic?
14kt gold is not necessarily hypoallergenic because it contains a higher proportion of alloy metals (such as copper, silver or sometimes nickel), which can cause allergic reactions in people with sensitivities to certain metals, especially nickel. While 14kt is not guaranteed hypoallergenic, it is generally safe for many people. Please check with your jeweler if you have concerns about allergens.
How can I tell if my gold jewelry is real?
To verify if your gold jewelry is real, you can check for a karat stamp (e.g., 14kt, 18kt, 24kt) usually found on the clasp or inner band of the piece. You can also take it to a jeweler for an official test, such as an acid or X-ray fluorescence test.
The Author: Katie Clark
Founded by Katie in 2023 from her love of fine jewelry, Katie Clark brings elegance and delicacy to everyday luxury wear. Each piece is intended to be legacy pieces that are curated for you to embrace your femininity.
