Which Carat Gold is Better?

What is ‘carat’ in gold?

Carat simply tells you how pure your gold is. Gold purity is measured out of 24 parts, so 24-carat means pure gold. If a piece is 18-carat, it means 18 parts are gold and the remaining 6 parts are other metals like copper or silver. This mix makes the jewellery stronger. In India, people usually buy 22-carat for traditional jewellery and 18-carat for designs that need extra durability. The higher the carat, the more gold it has, which is why higher-carat gold looks brighter and richer in colour.

How gold purity is measured in carat gold?

Gold purity in carats is calculated based on how much gold is present in a 24-part mix. So, if something is 18-carat, it means 18 parts are gold. To know the purity percentage, the number is divided by 24. For example, 18-carat gold comes to 75% purity. In India, hallmarking helps customers trust what they buy. Jewellers use hallmark symbols to show the exact carat value, ensuring customers get genuine and correctly measured gold every time.

Does a higher carat mean higher quality gold?

A higher carat does mean more gold, but that does not always mean it is better for daily use. Pure 24-carat gold is very soft and can scratch easily, so it is not ideal for everyday jewellery. Lower-carat gold, like 18-carat or 14-carat, has other metals mixed in, making it stronger and more durable. So, the “better” option depends on where you will wear it. If you want durability, lower-carat gold works well. If you prefer purity and a bright yellow shine, higher-carat gold is the right choice.
 

Durability and wearability of different carats of gold

Durability and wearability vary significantly across different carat golds. Higher carat gold, such as 22-carat or 24-carat, while visually appealing and more valuable due to its purity, is softer and more prone to scratches and deformation. This makes it less ideal for items subjected to daily wear and tear. Conversely, lower carat gold, like 18-carat or 14-carat, contains a higher proportion of alloyed metals, enhancing its strength and making it more resistant to damage. For those seeking long-lasting, durable jewellery for everyday use, lower carat gold options provide a balance of beauty and practicality.
 

Factors to consider when selecting a carat of gold

Before choosing the right carat gold for your jewellery, it helps to keep a few simple points in mind so you pick what works best for your needs.

• Purpose of use: If you want jewellery for daily wear, lower carat options like 18-carat gold are stronger and more durable.
• Budget: Higher carat gold costs more because it contains more pure gold, so choose a carat that fits your spending plan.
• Colour preference: Higher carat gold has a brighter yellow shade, while lower carat gold looks slightly lighter due to mixed metals.
• Resale value: Carat choice affects resale. In India, 22-carat gold is widely preferred because it balances purity, strength, and good resale demand.