14k vs 18k Gold

For gold, carat measures purity out of 24 parts. 24 carat is pure gold, too soft for a ring that holds a stone. 18 carat is 18 parts gold in 24, or 75%. 14 carat is 14 parts in 24, or 58.5%. The rest is a blend of other metals that sets the colour and the hardness.

Do not confuse this carat with the carat weight of a diamond, which measures weight, not purity.

The difference is easiest to see in yellow gold. 18k yellow has a deep, buttery warmth; 14k is a lighter, slightly cooler yellow. In rose gold the difference is subtler, and in white gold, which is usually rhodium plated, it is almost invisible.

18k is the traditional standard for fine jewellery in the UK and Europe. 14k is more common in the United States.

Because 14k contains more alloy, it is generally a little harder and resists everyday scratches and dents slightly better. 18k is still perfectly suited to daily wear and lasts a lifetime with ordinary care. For someone who is very hard on their hands, 14k, or platinum, may be worth considering.

Reactions to gold usually come from the other metals in the alloy, most often nickel in some white golds. A higher gold content means less alloy, so 18k is slightly less likely to cause a reaction than 14k. If you know you are sensitive, mention it before the ring is made.

Choose 18k for the richest colour and the traditional standard, especially in yellow gold. Choose 14k for a little extra hardness and a lower cost, especially in white gold, where the colour difference all but disappears. We make rings in both, and in platinum.