18k Gold vs. 24k Gold

All gold is not the same. There is a difference between 18k gold and 24k gold. There is a difference in appearance, application, properties, cost, and popularity. A karat is a unit used to measure the purity and quality of gold. The higher the rating the purer the gold is. The purest gold is 24k gold. Anything less than 24k gold has been mixed with other metals, such as copper or silver to make a gold alloy. As a result, all gold is not the same.

24k gold is 99.9% pure gold that is not mixed with any other metal, whereas 18k gold is mixed with different metals. In fact, 18k gold actually is made up of 75% gold and about 25% of other different metals.

The purity of gold will make a difference to its appearance as well. 24k gold always has a vivid and distinct bright yellow color. On the other hand, 18k gold comes in a wide range of colors depending on the other metals that have been mixed with it. The colors can include a rose or a white gold and may not be as distinct as 24k gold.

There is also a difference in the application of gold. The purity of 24k gold makes it softer and more pliable. This also makes it less suitable for jewelry and everyday use. It easily scratches and is much harder and expensive to work with compared to the 18k gold. 24k gold is much more expensive and normally used more for investments, decoration and medical devices. However, 18k gold is more popular in jewelry because it is mixed with other metals and becomes more durable. It is quite often used in fine jewelry and electronics.

The structure of gold is dense and soft. 24k gold is so soft that one ounce of gold can be hammered out into a very thin 300-foot sheet for gilding. But the 18k gold is not able to be hammered in the same manner because it is not as pure and has been mixed with harder metals.

There is also a difference in the cost of gold. The price of gold varies by design, craftsmanship and the metals that has been mixed with it. 24k gold is more expensive because it is purest and not mixed with other metals. The value of 18k gold can be calculated by multiplying its pennyweight by .750. However, 24k multiplies its pennyweight by .999. As a result, the cost of 24k gold is more expensive.

There is a difference in the popularity of gold as well. Gold is bought for a wide variety of reasons. It is common for people to invest in gold during recessions or at other times to hedge against inflation. During good economic times, gold jewelry's popularity grows. Therefore, 24k becomes more popular because of the investment potential. Gold also becomes a symbol of pride and purity. Those that invest for this reason invest in the purest form of gold.

In summary, all gold is not the same. The appearance, application, popularity, use, cost and properties of gold differ depending on whether it is 24k gold or 18k gold. Although they both are valuable and desired, 24k gold remains the pride of investors because of its purity. On the other hand, 18k remains the most common gold used in jewelry it is more durable. All gold is valuable, but there is a difference between 24k gold and 18k gold.