An All-around Guide to Karat Gold and Platinum

When shopping for fine jewelry, you've likely come across terms like 10k, 14k, 18k, and platinum. But what do these numbers and materials actually mean? Here at SHE.SAID.YES, we'll provide an all-around guide to karat gold and platinum to help you choose the best option for your style and budget. Keep reading to learn what distinguishes 10k, 14k, 18k golds from platinum according to their karat and purity levels.

What is Karat Gold?

Karat (kt) is a measurement used to determine the purity of gold. Pure 24-karat gold is 99.9% gold, which is beautiful and rare. However, pure gold is rarely used in jewelry because it is relatively soft and not suitable for everyday wear. For jewelry production, gold is usually alloyed with other metals like silver, copper, or palladium to increase its hardness and durability. The higher the karat number, the higher the percentage of pure gold contained in the alloy.

10k gold is 41.7% pure gold mixed with other metals. It has the lowest gold content of the standards at only 10/24ths, or 10 parts per 24, pure gold. While the most affordable option, 10k gold is also the softest and most prone to scratches, nicks, and denting with everyday wear.

14k gold is 58.3% pure gold. Its gold content is 14/24ths pure gold, higher than that of 10k. That means 14k gold is harder and more durable than 10k, making it suitable for stacked chains, charm bracelets, and fine jewelry worn often.

18k gold contains 75% pure gold, or 18/21ths. It is valued for its higher purity and beautiful rich yellow hue. However, its softness also makes it more delicate. 18k is often the preferred choice for detailed, intricate designs that can showcase gold’s luxury appeal. Of course, it is higher in price.

What is Platinum?

Platinum is a naturally white, precious metal. It is denser and harder than gold, ranking it as one of the hardest metals on earth. Besides, platinum is considered a noble metal, which means it does not oxidize, corrode, or tarnish over extremely long periods of time with typical wear and tear.

Purity: Platinum is approximately 95% pure, making it hypoallergenic and unlikely to cause skin irritations or reactions, even for those with metal sensitivities.

Luster: Due to its resistance to tarnish and corrosion, platinum will retain its lustrous shine and bright white appearance for a lifetime of wear.

Strength: At over five times harder than pure gold, platinum is difficult to scratch, dent, or deform through daily use and contact with chemicals. It maintains its shape and integrity.

Platinum is more expensive than gold, but pieces will last a lifetime. Due to its strength and timeless appeal, platinum is commonly used for engagement and wedding rings.

How to Choose?

There are a few key factors to weigh when determining whether 10k, 14k, 18k gold or platinum best suits your lifestyle and jewelry needs:

Budget: 10k gold is the most affordable option. Moving up to 14k and 18k increases the cost, and platinum is usually the most expensive per gram.

Intended wear: 10k and some 14k styles work well for daily pieces prone to wear and tear. Consider 18k or platinum for jewelry intended to last a lifetime.

Allergies: If sensitive or allergic to certain metal alloys, platinum and to some extent 14k+ should be a safer choice.

Longevity: Platinum will quite literally last forever without fading or damage. 18k is also very resilient. Low karats like 10k will show wear quickest over time.