December 19, 2022

Why 14 Karat Gold? Well, that’s for you to find out why it can be the wisest bet out of the different gold karat measurements. There is something about this karat measurement that fits people’s preferences more than you may already know. 

Let’s break this down for you in the simplest way possible.

Gold

Centuries ago, gold was like nuggets, and small particles swept down the streams. In 2000 BC, Egyptians were the first to mine gold to create different objects found to the used by royalty. Whether they were spoons, plates, ornaments, and jewelry, gold was a great heirloom passed down from generation to generation.

Gold is one of the most precious metals known for its beauty and versatility. Yellow is the color gold has during its natural form. However, over the years, people have experimented with its colors. It led to the creation of rose gold and white gold, which are still in trend today.

Karat

Karat is the standard measurement for gold. 24 Karat or 24k is the purest form of gold that is not advisable for jewelry because it is malleable and can be damaged easily. There is lesser purity of gold which are 18K, 14K, and 10K. We will discuss each one comparing to the 14K gold to see both their similarities and differences. 

What does it mean to be 14K Gold?

14K gold is a mixture of pure gold blended with other materials. The reason for this mixture is to add strength to it and color. Mixing different materials with pure gold can tone down the yellow hue or into a completely different color. Because pure gold is soft, it is hard to maintain its shape when used to create jewelry, so adding materials into the alloy mixture strengthens the piece more. Materials added include zinc, copper, nickel, or rhodium.

In 14K gold, the purity of gold would always be 58.3% mixed with 40% other parts. You will know when it is 14K gold because there is often a hallmark on jewelry that would say “583”.

14K vs. 18K Gold

18k gold is a popular choice for gold jewelry, especially for those with a budget for a higher-purity gold option. Here is a comparison between 18k gold and 14k gold and which would be the best option for you.

Purity

Gold jewelry with 18 carats has 18 parts of pure gold and 6 parts of other materials mixed into one alloy mixture. It has a higher level of purity compared to the14k gold jewelry. If purity is the main factor you are looking for, then 18k gold is a great choice. 

Price

Naturally, 14k gold, having a lesser purity, would be much cheaper than jewelry with 18k gold. You can get yourself an18k gold necklace but keep in mind that you can find a bigger 14k gold chain at that same price. But you do you!

Durability

The higher the purity level, the softer the product. If between 18k and 14k and durability is the one you prioritize, 14k gold can last a long time before it gets damaged. When thinking about this purchase, you have to consider your lifestyle. If you live an active lifestyle,  consider 14k gold because it is stronger for everyday wear and tear.

Tone

18-karat gold jewelry will contain more gold. It makes the color more yellow compared to the 14k gold jewelry. It is because when 14-carat gold is alloyed with other metal types, it can change the hue of yellow. Although this is not that visible and that easy to spot on first look. You can check this for yourself and decide on your personal preference.

Skin Reaction

18k and 14k gold are both on a high scale level of purity, so there is less reaction to jewelry with this carat measurement. However, if you have sensitive skin, the lesser purity of gold might react to you. It is another one that you must choose depending on your preference alone. 

14K vs. 10K Gold

To know about the difference between10k gold and 14K gold, we will go over it by its purity, price, durability, tone, and skin reaction. 

Purity

The gold content percentage is one of the many differences a10K gold necklace could have compared to a 14K one. Take note of this important detail when shopping.

A 14K gold has 14 parts gold or approximately 58.3% gold components in the alloy mixture. Since it has 14 parts gold, it has ten parts of other materials in the alloy mixture. Meanwhile, 10K gold has ten parts gold and 14 parts other materials in the alloy mixture, or approximately 41.7% gold.

Price

The price range of gold would depend on the level of purity of the gold. In 10k and 14k gold, 10k gold would cost less than the 14k gold jewelry you wish to purchase. If you have a limited budget, then 10k gold jewelry would be a good option. The best options for gold jewelry are atGold Presidents. Check them out now, and get into the variety of gold carats they offer.

Durability

10k gold is less pure compared to 14k gold. However, since there are other alloys with gold, it is stronger compared to 14k gold jewelry. The more materials alloyed into gold, the harder the metal mixture is. Therefore, people with an active lifestyle choose a 10k gold engagement ring they can always put on. 

Tone

You might think the more yellow the gold is, the purer it is. It might be because gold is naturally yellow. Although, there is some truth in that statement. 

The lesser the purity of gold a piece of jewelry has more materials are added to gold. If some of those materials have chemical elements that can change the natural color of gold, it would appear lesser yellow. But again, this would only depend on the material gold alloyed.

Skin Reaction

Higher-purity gold is more gentle on the skin. It is what makes the high prices worth it. Lo-carat gold can sometimes have other metal types alloyed in that can irritate your skin or trigger an allergic reaction. If you have sensitive skin, it would not be the best option to choose the 10k gold over the 14k gold.

In the end, sometimes it’s all a matter of personal preference. Have a try at the choices we shared and find your style.


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