Gold purity is measured in karats (K). The purest form is 24K, but as other metals are mixed in, the durability, colour, and affordability of gold change. The lower the karat, the higher the proportion of alloy metals.
24K gold is the purest form of gold with 99.9% purity. It has a bright yellow shine and the highest value, but it is very soft and can be scratched or bent easily. Because of this, it is not used for daily jewellery and is mostly made into coins, bars, or used in medical and electronic devices. It is best suited for investment.
| Purity | 99.9% pure gold |
| Colour | Deep yellow |
| Best For | Investments, coins, and religious items |
| Not Ideal For | Daily wear, as it is soft and prone to scratches |
| Highlight | Rare and natural, but least durable for jewellery. |
22K gold has 91.67% pure gold mixed with metals like copper, silver, or zinc. It has a rich yellow colour and is stronger than 24K, making it popular for traditional and bridal jewellery. However, it is softer than gemstones, so it is not ideal for heavy- studded pieces. Even though it is less pure than 24K, it is still very valuable and widely used for ornaments.
| Purity | 91.6% gold mixed with silver/copper |
| Colour | Rich yellow |
| Usage | Perfect for bridal and traditional jewellery |
| Durability | Stronger than 24K but still requires care |
| Highlight | Widely used in India for ornaments. |
18K gold has 75% pure gold and 25% other metals like copper, silver, and zinc. It is strong, durable, and more affordable than 22K and 24K, making it a popular choice for all types of jewellery. With its warm yellow colour, it is perfect for rings, wedding bands, diamond jewellery, and daily wear. It is also gentle on the skin, which makes it a preferred option for fine jewellery.
| Purity | 75% gold and 25% alloy metals |
| Colour | Yellow, white, and rose gold |
| Best For | Fine jewellery and daily wear |
| Durability | Offers a strong balance of beauty and strength |
| Highlight | Pairs beautifully with diamonds, including lab-grown options. |
14K gold has 58.3% pure gold mixed with 41.7% metals like copper, silver, zinc, and nickel. It has a lighter yellow colour than higher karats and is more affordable. Because it is strong and durable, 14K gold is perfect for daily-wear jewellery such as rings, chains, and bracelets, making it a practical and stylish choice for everyday use.
| Purity | 58.5% gold |
| Colour | Warm golden tone |
| Durability | Excellent for everyday use |
| Best For | Rings, chains, watches, and active lifestyles |
| Highlight | More budget-friendly while still luxurious. |
10K gold has 41.7% pure gold mixed with 58.3% other metals like silver, nickel, or zinc. It is the cheapest type of gold and looks paler in colour. Strong and durable, it does not bend or scratch easily, making it good for daily-wear jewellery like rings and chains. However, it is less valuable and may cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin.
| Purity | 41.7% gold |
| Colour | Pale yellow |
| Durability | Extremely strong and long-lasting |
| Best For | Affordable jewellery collections |
| Not Ideal For | People with sensitive skin |
| Highlight | Common in commercial jewellery lines. |
The best gold for jewellery depends on design, durability, and personal taste. Yellow gold is the most popular and traditional choice, especially for classic and bridal designs. For those who want higher purity, 22K and 24K gold are often chosen for coins, bars, or special jewellery, but they are less durable for daily use.
White gold has become a modern favourite for engagement rings and wedding bands, while rose gold, with its soft pink colour, is a trendy choice loved by many women.
No matter which type you choose—yellow, white, or rose—always check the hallmark for purity and keep an eye on the gold rate, as it stays the same across the country. This way, your jewellery will look beautiful and hold its value.
Choosing the right gold purity depends on your lifestyle, budget, and style preference. While 24K gold is best for investment, 22K remains the favourite for traditional jewellery. If you want a balance of durability and beauty, 18K and 14K are great options for everyday wear. At Kota Gold, the trusted jewellery shop in Coimbatore, you can explore different gold types, colours, and designs to find the one that matches your taste perfectly. No matter what you choose, gold will always remain a timeless treasure.