New brides and grooms are lucky enough to have nearly limitless choices for their wedding bands and engagement rings. From choosing the diamond shape to the setting for their 24k gold jewelry, there are many details to consider when shopping for fine jewelry.
With all these choices, it can be difficult to determine the best option. There is no right choice regarding your diamond shape and metal, but it’s always good to research to find a perfect ring.
What is 24 karat Gold?
What is 24k gold? Simply put, 24k gold is pure gold. Usually, gold is an alloy which means it is mixed with other metals, but 24k gold is made solely with 100% gold.
This gold is especially loved for its rich yellow appearance. When more gold is present, the color of the metal will appear richer.
Although beautiful and pure, 24k karat gold is a very soft material. It is not recommended for jewelry that you wear every day. Simply put, 24k gold adds an extra starry shine, but the softness creates a dilemma in keeping it that way.
Colors for Gold Jewelry
Engagement rings and jewelry come in a variety of precious metals, including platinum and titanium. Gold is the most popular metal for fine jewelry. People search for white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold jewelry worn as engagement rings and wedding bands.
White Gold and Rose Gold
The most common metals used to mix with gold are copper, silver, nickel, palladium, and zinc. Depending on what metals are used and the percentage they are present will result in three common colors for jewelry. White gold has more nickel and zinc, while rose gold contains more copper.
However, 24k gold is only available in yellow gold. This is because 24k gold is 100% pure, meaning it is not mixed with other metals.
Pure Gold
Unlike other precious metals such as platinum and palladium, gold comes in a variety of purity levels. 24k is 100% pure.
Pure gold is commonly used to create gold coins or bars, which people may purchase and sell as an investment. It may also be used in medical devices.
The Karat System
The expression “24 carat gold” (with a C) is not the same as “24 karat gold” (with a K).
Karat numbers measure the gold’s purity, while the expression ‘carat’ refers to your diamond’s actual weight. The karat number of your gold does not determine its carat weight (millimeter size).
The grading system of gold is based on the karat system, which measures the purity and ratio of pure gold vs. other metals in jewelry. The higher content of gold, the higher the karat rating.
The highest purity rating for gold is 24k, which is why it is the purest form of gold. It is essential to understand the karat system so you get the best value for your wedding band or engagement ring.
Durability of 24k Gold
Since 24k gold is 100% pure gold, it is a soft and malleable material. This makes it prone to scratches and dents without the mixture of other metals.
For that reason, jewelers do not recommend using 24k gold for your engagement ring, wedding bands, or other jewelry. Pure gold does not last when faced with normal wear and tear.
When looking for the highest quality and best value of jewelry, 24k gold may not be the best choice.
Price of 24k Gold Jewelry
Since 24k gold has the highest percentage of pure gold, it is the most expensive type available.
Prices of gold vary based on the gold content and market price at the time. It may be worth investing in 24k gold, especially during recessions, but it takes more knowledge of the gold industry to make a good investment.
Clean Origin only offers 14k and 18k gold jewelry— not 24k gold. If you’re looking to buy a gold engagement ring or band with a high gold content and durable enough to wear, 18k gold is a great choice.
Price of 24k Gold vs. 18k and 14k Gold Jewelry
In terms of jewelry, it is hard to directly compare the price of 24k gold to other types of gold because it is not commonly used for jewelry.
In the past few years, 24k gold was sold for $1,780.75 USD an ounce. The price of 14k gold is around $1,035.3 USD for one ounce.
However, 18k will still be a few hundred dollars more expensive than 14k gold. For example, our simple Quiet Beauty Solitaire ring will cost around $740 for 14k gold and $1,065 for 18k gold.
Should I Choose 24k Gold for Fine Jewelry?
Although prestigious and beautiful, 24k gold is not a recommended choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, or any other fine jewelry you tend to wear daily.
If you’re looking for a setting made of gold, many people purchase 14k gold. Not only is 14k gold more affordable than 24k gold, but it is also more resistant to daily wear and tear and has a greater lifetime value for your money.
You can choose a variety of colors, such as white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold. Platinum is also a great precious metal for engagement rings and wedding bands. It is silverish in color and much more durable than gold. Platinum will sell for higher prices than gold, though.
Clean Origin’s collection of lab grown diamonds and fine jewelry have exceptional craftsmanship. If you’re searching for any type of jewelry, browse styles in demand on our website. We offer free delivery on every order and can ship straight to your home.
