14K or 18K? Gold Karat Differences Guide
The most common question when choosing gold jewelry is karat. Karat shows how much of the metal is pure gold. 24k is pure gold; in jewelry it is alloyed with metals such as silver and copper for durability.
Karats and pure gold content
- 9k (375): about 37.5% gold
- 10k (417): about 41.7% gold
- 14k (585): 58.5% gold
- 18k (750): 75% gold
When to choose 14k gold
Because of its higher alloy content it is harder and more scratch-resistant. It is a common choice for everyday rings, bracelets and men's jewelry, and for wholesale orders seeking a balance of price.
When to choose 18k gold
With its higher gold content the color is richer and warmer. It is preferred for diamond, lab-grown diamond and colored-stone jewelry and for premium collections.
Color: yellow, white and rose gold
Color depends on the alloy metals, regardless of karat. White gold is usually rhodium plated; rose gold has a higher copper content.
Choosing karat in custom production
OSKA makes yellow, white and rose gold from 9k to 18k. We choose the karat together with you to suit your design, budget and target market. Every piece carries a karat hallmark.
Custom jewelry manufacturing · Wholesale gold jewelry · Request a quote