Kalyan Wiki
18 Karat Gold
‘Karat’ is a measure that indicates the purity of gold. Gold ornaments are sold in different karat weights such as 10k, 14k, 18k, 22k, 24k etc. It is a measure that shows the purity and fineness of gold on a scale of 0 to 24. A high karat gold signifies high purity, the purest being 24k.
18k gold comprises 75% of pure gold and 25% alloy metal. The ‘millesimal fineness’ system denotes 18k gold using the number ‘750’, which means 750 parts of pure metal per thousand parts. In terms of karat weight, an 18k gold ornament contains 18/24 parts of gold, indicating 18 parts of gold and 6 parts of alloy metal.
18k gold is one of the best-suited gold for making fine jewellery. Because of its higher gold content, it provides bright yellow colour and fine finish. The ornaments are durable for everyday use and offer great value for money.
Features of 18k gold jewellery:
- It provides a balance between fineness and durability. The additional alloy metal makes these ornaments stronger and more durable than pure gold.
- 18k gold is less expensive compared to 22k and 24k gold.
- Compared to its lower karat weights, 18k gold is less likely to make allergic reactions in people as it contains a very higher percentage of gold than the alloy metal.
- It is suitable for regular wear and everyday use due to its hardness and durability.
Popular 18k gold jewellery
We can find 18k gold in rings, watches, bangles and all other forms of wearable jewellery. Although 22k gold is most suitable for jewellery, 18k also contributes as a major raw material in making ornaments.
18k gold jewellery is available in various colours such as bright yellow, rose gold and white gold. Different metals used in various quantities provide these colours to the alloy. The white version consists of a blend of pure gold and metals such as nickel and palladium. Providing a rhodium coating to 18k white gold protects it from corrosion. This category is most popular for its use in wedding and engagement rings. Making a blend of pure gold with metals like copper and silver results in yellow gold. It is the most common version of 18k gold.
The 18k rose gold is a popular choice for rings due to its warm rose colour. It is an alloy of pure gold and copper and appears in various shades of pink. The colour varies according to the quantity of copper used. The more the copper content, the more the pinkness.
