If you're thinking of buying a chain, a ring, or some gold earrings, the first thing you'll see is a number followed by a K: 10K, 14K, or 18K. That's what most influences the price, the color, and how long your jewelry will last. In this guide, we explain what each one means and which one is best for you based on what you're looking for.
What does the K in gold mean?
The K are the kilograms, They measure what part of the jewel is pure gold. Pure gold is 24K, but it is so soft that it is hardly used for jewelry: it scratches and deforms easily. That is why it is mixed with other metals (silver, copper, zinc…) to give it hardness and color.
- 10K: 10 parts of 24-carat gold, that is, about 41.7 % percent gold.
- 14K: 14 parts of 24, about 58.3 % % gold.
- 18K: 18 parts of 24, about 75 % % gold.
The three are Real gold. The difference lies in the proportion of gold and in how the piece behaves in everyday use.
10K gold: durable and more economical
It is the toughest of the three options, because it has more alloy. It holds up well to impacts and everyday use, which is why it is very popular for Cuban chain link, Men's bracelets and rings. The color is a slightly softer yellow and the price is the most affordable.
Ideal if: Are you looking for a large piece or one for everyday use, or do you want more grams of gold for the same budget?.
14K gold: the perfect balance
It is the best-selling quilate in the United States. It has a more intense yellow color than the 10K and is still durable enough to be used every day. It is our recommendation for engagement rings, earrings and fine chains.
Ideal if: You want a jewel that looks very beautiful, that lasts for many years and at a reasonable price.
18K gold: the purest and most brilliant
It has the warmest and deepest color of the three, and is the best option if you have sensitive skin, because it has less alloy. Since it is softer, it is suitable for parts that do not receive many knocks or for special occasions. It is the most expensive.
Ideal if: You are looking for a luxury piece, a very special gift, or you have an allergy to certain metals.
And the white gold and the pink gold?
The color does not depend on the karatage, but on the metals with which the gold is mixed. The White gold It has white metals and usually ends with a rhodium bath that gives it that silver luster. The pink gold It has more copper. You can find 10K, 14K and 18K in yellow, white or pink colors.
Quick table to decide
| 10K | 14K | 18K | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure gold | ~41,7 % | ~58,3 % | ~75 % |
| Resistance | Very high | High | Media |
| Color | Soft yellow | Intense yellow | Very warm yellow |
| Price | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Better for | Thick chains, everyday use | Rings, earrings, gifts | Luxurious pieces, sensitive skin |
How to know the carat weight of your jewel
Gold jewelry has a small stamp, usually on the chain clasp or inside the ring: 10K, 14K, 18K or its equivalent in thousandths (417, 585, 750). If you don't find it or have any questions, bring it to the store and we'll check it out.
Come and see it in person
The best way to choose is to see and try the pieces on yourself. La Borla Gold We have been in Miami for more than 15 years and we help you choose the gold that best suits you. Visit us at 10740 W Flagler St, Suite 1, Miami, Look at ours online store o Write to us on WhatsApp.
