What do 18K, 21K, 22K and 24K mean when buying wedding gold?
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Direct answer
Karat describes gold's proportion out of 24: 18K is 75% gold, 21K is 87.5%, 22K is about 91.7%, and 24K denotes pure gold.
The remaining proportion in an alloy consists of other metals, which can affect colour and practical properties. Ask the jeweller to record the stated purity and item weight on the invoice. Higher purity does not automatically make a design more suitable for every wearer or use. A purity claim should be assessed separately from workmanship, stone quality and the seller's price.
Sources used
Guide to White, Yellow, and Rose Gold Engagement Rings
Gemological Institute of America
Explains karat and fineness. No live metal price, investment return or local hallmarking law is inferred.Source checked:
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