Understanding Karat And Fineness

Gold Purity

A straightforward guide to the numbers stamped on gold jewellery and what they mean for colour, composition and wear.
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Reading The Measure

Karat describes the proportion of gold in an alloy.

Twenty-four karat represents gold at or close to pure gold. Jewellery is often made in lower karats, combining gold with other metals for colour and practical durability.

Fineness expresses the same idea in parts per thousand: 18K corresponds to 750 fineness, while 14K corresponds to 585 fineness.

Purity At A Glance

Know the number before choosing the piece.

Higher purity brings a richer gold content and often a deeper yellow tone. Alloy composition and construction also influence hardness, finish and how a piece performs in daily wear.

Explore The Details

Common purity levels

24K / 999

Approximately 99.9% Gold

Rich in colour and highly malleable; more common in bullion and selected traditional applications.

22K / 916

Approximately 91.6% Gold

A high-gold alloy widely associated with richly coloured jewellery.

18K / 750

75% Gold

Balances substantial gold content with versatility for fine settings and regular wear.

Purity, construction and intended wear should always be considered together.

A Considered Approach

Before you purchase

01

Check both formats

Purity may be shown as karat, fineness or both, such as 18K and 750.

02

Do not judge by colour alone

Alloy metals and surface finishes can change appearance.

03

Review the hallmark

For hallmarked jewellery in India, look for the BIS logo, purity mark and HUID.

Carat Street

Continue learning about gold

Explore colour, alloy, wearability and care in our complete gold guide.
Read The Gold Guide