Karat vs Carat

Karat vs Carat - What’s the Difference?  

Let’s dive into a topic that is often misunderstood but absolutely vital for anyone navigating the world of diamond rings and luxury jewellery: the difference between “karat” and “carat”.

Whether you’re purchasing an engagement ring for your perfect proposal or investing in exquisite diamond jewellery (such as a diamond tennis bracelet, pair of diamond stud earrings, a single solitaire diamond pendant, or anniversary ring) understanding these terms are essential in understanding the quality and value of your piece!

Discover the definitions for these terms below. 

Karat vs Carat: What do they mean?

Looking at the definitions when we are referencing gold - the terms “Karat” and “Carat” are describing the purity of the gold or whether it is mixed with other metal alloys.

“Karat” or “Carat” is simply a difference in spelling from the country of origin. For instance, in Australia, UK, France, Switzerland, Germany the term “Carat” is used to explain the purity of the gold. In Australia we use the teminology “Carat” when describing gold purity, while in the USA “Karat” is the preferred spelling. Both variaitons, however, mean the same thing.

You might also notice these terms abbreviated to “18k” or “18ct” which is the abbreviation for “18 Karat” or “18 Carat”. You’re likely to find these markings stamped inside rings and fine jewellery to identify the gold purity. 

What is Gold Carat?

The higher the carat number to 24, the purer the gold. You may already be familiar with the terms that are most commonly used by jewellers (9ct, 14ct, 18ct and 24ct gold) and perhaps you already own pieces in your own collection with these caratages! These numbers indicate how many parts out of 24 are pure gold.

All of these terms indicate how many parts of the gold are pure. For instance, 24ct gold is 100% gold, where all 24 out of 24 parts are pure gold whereas 18ct gold is made up of a mix of 75% pure gold and 25% precious metal alloys. The caratage explains the percentage of other precious metal alloys mixed with the gold.

See more: Gold & Metals available at Janai

Gold will be mixed with other alloys such as palladium, copper, silver, or zinc to achieve the desired hues (yellow gold, white gold, or rose gold). The purity level will depend on the desired strength of the gold. 

The Gold Carat Spectrum

What is 24 Carat Gold?

The pinnacle of purity is 24ct gold. This is gold in its purest and most natural state. 

However, because 24ct gold is quite soft and malleable, it’s usually only reserved for pieces worn on extra special occasions (such as wedding jewellery). It isn’t very practical for everyday wear as it is more susceptible to scratches or marks.

18ct Gold: Ideal for Engagement Rings

For engagement rings in Melbourne, 18ct gold is our preferred choice at Janai. With 18 parts gold and 6 parts premium alloys, it strikes the perfect balance between purity and durability. Whether yellow or white gold, the 75% pure gold mixed with additional alloys give it strength whilst retaining the luxurious appearance and feel of gold - making it the ideal choice for diamond rings. 18ct gold can be recognised by their stamp of 18ct or 750.

14ct Gold: Affordable Elegance

For those seeking a budget-friendly option, 14ct gold is an excellent choice and commonly used in everyday jewellery. It offers durability and resistance to tarnish, making it suitable for pieces for daily wear. Whilst not as rich in gold content as 18ct, it still exudes a beautiful golden hue. 

9ct Gold: Durable and Cost-Effective

In Australia, 9ct gold is a popular choice due to its affordability and strength. Whilst it doesn’t offer the high gold content of other caratages, its durability and practicality remains a highlight. Perfect for those with active lifestyles and seeking a cost-effective choice.

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Types of Gold Jewellery

 
Solid Gold

Solid Gold represents the highest quality and the most valuable form of jewellery. Unlike other gold types, it maintains its composition throughout, ensuring the same luxurious appearance no matter how much it is worn down. This consistency is due to the fact that solid gold is not just a surface coating: it is gold entirely (determined by its carats such as 9ct, 18ct). Meaning if you were to rub or scratch the surface, you would reveal the same gold purity underneath. Without any change in hue, colour, composition, or discovering another metal beneath.

Solid gold is ideal for forever pieces such as engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, bracelets. The colour of solid gold is the longest-lasting, tarnish resistant, and our gold at Janai is hypoallergenic/nickel free, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin. 18ct Gold is perfect for everyday wear. All of our custom made gold engagement rings are crafted from solid 18ct White, Yellow or Rose gold, guaranteeing lasting beauty and integrity.

Gold Filled

Gold filled jewellery offers a middle ground between a solid gold look and more affordable option. Gold filled describes multiple layers of solid gold pressure bonded to a core of jewellers brass. Gold filled commonly uses 14ct gold for the outer gold layer. A gold filled piece must contain at least 5% gold to be described as gold-filled.

Gold Vermeil

Gold vermeil jewellery features a sterling silver core coated with a thick layer of gold, offering a luxe look at a more accessible price. It lasts longer than gold plated, however, since the majority of the piece is sterling silver it must be cared for in the same way. It requires careful maintenance to avoid tarnishing, as it can easily oxodise when exposed to air.

Gold Plated

Gold plated jewellery is the most cost-effective option, featuring a very thin outer layer of gold over a core metal such as brass or copper. While it’s perfect for trendy fast-fashion jewellery as its inexpensive, it’s not likely to last very long. Gold plating is less durable, can wear away quickly and therefore the piece is easily prone to tarnishing.

Gold Carat vs Diamond Carat

A diamond carat refers to the measurement of weight of the stone, whilst gold carat is the measurement of purity of the gold. “Carat” is the only way to correctly describe the term for diamonds.

What is a Diamond Carat?

Diamond Carat refers solely to the weight of the stone, not the purity. A “carat” is a unit of measurement used to describe the size of a gemstone by how heavy it is and it plays a significant role in determining its value.

Understanding Carat Weight

One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, 0.2 grams or 0.0002 of a kilogram. In the world of diamonds, a high-carat weight is often associated with luxury, but a well-cut diamond with exceptional clarity and colour can outshine a larger, lesser-quality stone, and also fetch a higher price.

Carat and Pricing

The price of diamonds and other fine gemstones will invariably increase with carats weight. However, the price jump is not always linear. Larger stones are rarer, and therefore, more valuable. So you may find a 2 carat diamond may cost significantly more. Also consider that the diamond origins will play a large part in pricing. For example, a Lab-Grown Diamond and Natural Diamond with the same carat weight and similar characteristics will have a substantial price difference.

Carat and Cut grade

The cut of a gemstone can also influence how large it appears. An excellent cut diamond will reflect light in a dazzling display that can make it seem larger than its carat weight may suggest.

Carat Weight and different Diamond Shapes

A diamond’s carat weight doesn’t always equate to visual size. The diamond shape and the diamond ratios (their length in relation to their width measurement) play a large role in the overall appearance. For example, a 1.5ct Oval Brilliant Cut Diamond will appear much larger than an equivalent 1.5ct Round Brilliant Cut Diamond due to its elongated shape. The measurement will appear larger and cover more surface area on the finger even though the weight is the same.

Selecting the perfect diamonds based on carat

There is more to choosing the right diamond than simply carat weight, it’s about finding the perfect balance between all the 4C’s - carat, cut, clarity and colour to guarantee an exceptionally bright, clear and sparkly diamond! Whilst the highest carat weights are undeniably the most appealing, the cut and quality of the stone is crucial. 

See more: How many carats for your engagement ring?

At Janai, our diamond specialists guide clients through the intricate world of gold and diamonds to ensure you make an informed decision. Our team are here to assist you in selecting an engagement ring that truly reflects your style and preferences. 

Begin your next chapter with an alluring diamond. Fill in your details to request your appointment at Janai below and create your engagement ring in Melbourne today!