Difference Between Carat and Karat in Jewellery

Curious about the difference between carat and karat in jewellery? Understanding these two terms can help you make more informed decisions and ensure that you get the most value from your precious jewellery.

When shopping for jewellery studded with diamonds and coloured gemstones, you must have heard the terms "carat" and "karat." While they sound similar, they refer to completely different aspects of jewellery.

Understanding the difference is key to making informed decisions and appreciating the value of your precious pieces. Let's dive into the world of carats and karats, so you can shine brighter in your jewellery knowledge!

 

What is Carat?

Carat (ct) is a unit of weight used to measure the weight of a gemstone, typically diamonds and other precious gemstones.

One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams (0.2 grams).

1 carat = 200 milligrams (0.2 grams)

Thus, 2 carat diamond weight = 400 milligrams (0.4 grams)

The carat weight of a gemstone is an important factor in determining its value. Along with the gemstone's cut, clarity, and color, carat weight significantly influences its overall worth and price.

 

How Carat Affects Jewellery

• In Estimating Size: Generally, the higher the carat weight, the larger the gemstone appears, although this also depends on the cut and shape of the stone.
• In calculating Value: Carat weight influences the price of a gemstone. As carat weight increases, the price per carat typically increases exponentially, especially for diamonds.

A gemstone of a bigger size isn’t always more valuable. A well-cut diamond with a lower carat weight can be more brilliant than a larger diamond with poor cut quality and hence more expensive.

 

What is Karat?

Karat (K) refers to the purity of gold used in jewellery. It measures how much gold is present in a jewellery.

Pure gold is 24 karats, meaning it is 99.9% gold with no other metals mixed in. However, pure gold is soft and not ideal for crafting durable jewellery. So, alloys (using other metals like Nickel, Zinc, Silver) are mixed to it to form different karats of gold. In India, at present gold jewellery can be purchased in 14K, 18K, and 22K. The amount of gold in a jewellery increases with karat value.

The chart below is a graphical representation that displays the purity of gold, along with their corresponding percentages of pure gold content and purity and fineness grade.  

Purity	Percent of gold	purity and fineness grade
24K	99.9	24k999
23K	95.8	23K958
22k	91.6	22K916
20K	83.3	20K833
18k	75.0	18K750
14K	58.5	14K585

 

Hence, 22-karat gold is 91.6% gold and 8.4% other metals whereas 18-karat gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals.

 

Karat and Jewellery

• Durability: Higher karat gold (e.g., 22K) is softer and more malleable, and 18K is harder making it ideal for intricate designs and suitable for jewellery studded with diamonds and gemstones.
• Value: Higher karat gold is more valuable due to its higher gold content. So, 22K gold will be is more valuable as compared to 18K and 14K. However, the choice between 18K, 14K, or 10K often depends on personal preference and intended use.

When you see an 18-karat necklace studded with 1.39 ct diamonds, it means the metal used in this jewellery is composed of 75% gold and 25% other metals. 1.39 ct is the weight of the diamonds featured in that necklace.

 

Quick Reference Guide

• Carat (ct): Measures the weight of diamonds and gemstones.
• Karat (K): Measures the purity of gold.

 

Why It Matters to You

Understanding these terms can help you make more informed choices when purchasing jewellery. Whether investing in a diamond engagement ring crafted in 18 K gold or a stunning-coloured gemstone earring created in 14K, knowing the difference between carat and karat ensures you get exactly what you want—and what you’re paying for.

At Yahvi Jewellery we’re here to help you find jewellery that matches both your style and understanding. Visit us online or in-store to explore our collection and let our experts guide you to the perfect piece.

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