GOLD: Which karat is best for you?
- Anna Martello
- Jan 18, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: Mar 5
What "K" stand for?
The letter "K" stands for karat, which refers to the percentage of pure gold in a piece of jewelry. The highest purity available is 24K, which means that it is 100 percent pure gold.
14K: 58.3% gold
Solid gold is a precious metal that will not oxidize or discolor. The 14K alloy gives pieces their beautiful shine, remains very durable, scratches less, and doesn’t bend or wear out easily. It's the perfect affordable choice for jewelry that will last a lifetime and won't irritate your skin.
18K: 75% gold
8 karat gold is the best compromise between purity and practicality. It's prized for its warm buttery tones that perfectly compliment diamonds and gemstones. Due to the high gold content, 18 karat gold is more susceptible to scratches and scuffs than 14K gold so it should be carefully looked after if you wear it in everyday life.
21K: 87.5% gold
21k gold consists of 87.5% of pure gold and 12.5% of other alloys. This level of gold purity is popular for plain jewelry mainly. Although it is a little more durable than 22k gold, its hardness is still not enough for heavy gemstones.
This post is a great reminder that understanding gold purity isn’t just about sparkle—it’s about longevity, comfort, and smart investing. The durability and hypoallergenic benefits of 14K gold make it a standout for everyday fashion jewelry. For those exploring elegant earrings, Grandiani offers stunning 4 carat lab grown diamond earrings that pair beautifully with 14K settings—combining brilliance with wearability. Because great jewelry should feel as good as it looks.