Differences between 18kt and 24kt gold

Differences between 18kt and 24kt Gold

Gold has always been a symbol of wealth, power, and beauty. However, when it comes to jewelry, the choice between 18kt and 24kt gold is one of the most frequently asked questions among customers. What are the differences between these two versions, and which is the most suitable for the jewelry you wear daily? In this article, we explore the distinctive characteristics of 18kt and 24kt gold, helping you make an informed choice.

What is "Carat"?

Before delving into the differences, it is important to understand what "kt" or "carat" means. The carat is the unit of measurement that indicates the purity of gold. Pure gold is 24kt, which means it is composed of 100% gold without any other alloys. When talking about gold with lower carats, such as 18kt or 14kt, it indicates the presence of a percentage of other metals, which give the gold greater hardness and resistance.

24kt Gold: Pure Gold

24kt gold is gold in its purest form: it contains 99.9% gold and no other alloy. This gives 24kt gold its unmistakable brilliance and intense yellow color. However, pure gold has some limitations when used in jewelry.

Main characteristics of 24kt gold:

• Softness: Being a very malleable metal, pure gold is more prone to scratches, bends, and deformations. This makes it less practical for everyday use in jewelry.
• Price: 24kt gold is the most expensive, due to its purity. It is often used in bars or investment jewelry.
• Color: 24kt gold has a bright yellow hue, highly sought after in countries like India and China, where it is considered a symbol of status and purity.

18kt Gold: Perfect Balance between Purity and Durability

18kt gold contains 75% pure gold, while the remaining 25% is made up of metal alloys such as copper, silver, or palladium. These alloys give gold greater strength and make jewelry more durable for everyday use, without sacrificing too much of gold's allure.

Main characteristics of 18kt gold:

• Resistance: Thanks to the presence of alloys, 18kt gold is much more resistant than 24kt gold. This makes it ideal for jewelry that is worn daily, such as rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
• Price: Being less pure, 18kt gold is cheaper than 24kt gold, while still maintaining a high quality.
• Color: 18kt gold has a softer yellow color compared to 24kt, but it is still highly valued for its shine and refinement.

Why are Jewelry not Made in 24kt Gold but in 18kt Gold?

One of the most common questions we are asked is why jewelry is not made of 24kt gold, since it represents the purest form of gold. The answer is mainly related to durability and practicality.

• Softness of pure gold: 24kt gold is extremely malleable. This means that pure gold jewelry is more vulnerable to scratches, dents, and deformations. For those who wear jewelry every day, this would be a big problem, as it would require constant care and attention.

• Durability of 18kt gold: The addition of metal alloys in 18kt gold not only increases the strength and durability of the jewelry but also makes the pieces more resistant to daily wear. This hardness makes 18kt gold jewelry ideal for everyday wear without worries.

• Practicality and usability: While 24kt gold may be more valuable in terms of worth, it is impractical for everyday use. 18kt gold jewelry offers the perfect balance between purity and practicality, maintaining a luxurious appearance but being more durable.

For these reasons, My Mō chooses to create most of its pieces in 18kt gold, ensuring not only timeless beauty but also superior durability. The attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials allow us to offer you jewelry that stands the test of time, perfect for everyday wear.