Gold is arguably the most attractive to the human eye. And one of the “noble” elements which doesn’t corrode or discolour when exposed to moisture.

It is the most captivating of metals, and that appeal has not changed. An Egyptian Pharaoh thought it was just as beautiful and desirable as a bride does today. Throughout its long history, gold has continued to serve as a symbol of wealth and prosperity, as well as currency. Gold is measured in either grams or sovereign but the amount of gold present in a piece of jewellery is measured in karats. Jewellery that is made of pure gold is said to be 24 karat but this would be quite soft and not considered for making jewellery. There are different karats of gold. Karat is the term used to measure the gold content or purity.

24k Gold

24K gold is also called pure gold or 100 percent gold. This means that all 24 parts in the gold are all pure gold without traces of any other metals. It is known to be 99.9 per cent pure and takes on a distinct bright yellow colour. There is no higher form of gold than 24K. Since this is the purest form of gold, it is naturally more expensive than 22K or 18K gold. However, this type of gold is lesser in density as compared to gold of a lower karat which makes it soft and pliable. Hence, it is not suitable for regular forms of jewellery.

22K Gold

22K gold jewellery implies that 22 parts of the jewellery amounts to gold and the balance 2 parts are some other metals. This kind of gold is commonly used in jewellery making. In 22K gold, of the 100 per cent, only 91.67 per cent is pure gold. The other 8.33 per cent comprises metals like silver, zinc, nickel and other alloys. It is this addition of metals that make the texture of gold harder thereby making the jewellery durable.

18K Gold

18K gold is 75 per cent gold mixed with 25 per cent of other metals like copper or silver etc. Usually studded jewellery and other diamond jewellery are made in 18K gold. This kind of gold is less expensive compared to 24K and 22K. This one has a slightly dull gold colour.