How many times do people say the term ‘pure gold’ daily?
Many times.
They say it when describing colors or even buying fashion items and accessories.
But not many know there is such a thing as gold purity.
You see, when you decide to invest in gold, whether for jewelry, coins, or gold bars, you need to know exactly what the purity of gold means.
In this blog, you’ll learn what gold purity is, how the karat system works, and why percentages matter.
By the end, you’ll feel confident reading a gold purity chart, choosing between 22 carat gold purity percentage or 18 carat gold purity percentage, and picking the right gold for your needs.
What is Gold Purity?
Gold purity measures the proportion of pure gold in an alloy.
It’s expressed in karats (K) or as a percentage as shown below:
- 24 carat gold purity percentage: 24K is pure gold—100% gold.
- 22 carat gold purity percentage: 22K is 91.7% gold (22/24×100).
- 20 carat gold purity percentage: 20K is 83.3% gold.
- 18 carat gold purity percentage: 18K is 75% gold.
- 14 carat gold purity percentage: 14K is 58.3% gold.
Yes, you might even stumble on 48 karat gold, but the karat system maxes at 24. Anything above 24K isn’t standard, so stick to the established scale when you’re shopping or investing.
The Karat System: Purity and Fineness of Gold Based on Karat
The karat system is a global standard used to indicate gold purity, and it directly impacts how gold is used.
24K gold is 100% pure and typically reserved for bullion and investment purposes due to its softness.
22K gold, at 91.7% purity, is often found in high-end jewelry, especially in cultures that value rich gold tones.
20K gold (83.3%) is less common but prized in vintage or collectible items.
18K gold, containing 75% pure gold, is a popular choice for fine jewelry because it balances luxury with durability.
Meanwhile, 14K gold has 58.3% gold content and is widely used for everyday wear thanks to its strength and affordability.
Pure gold is a soft, bright yellow metal, ideal for investment bars but less practical for daily jewelry. That’s why alloying with other metals gives durability and color variation.
What is a Gold Purity Chart?
A gold purity chart helps you instantly see the relationship between karats and purity percentages. When you shop, you can reference it to answer “What gold purity should you buy or wear?” based on:
- Durability needs (everyday wear vs. special occasions)
- Allergy concerns (higher purity reduces alloy irritants)
- Budget (24K costs more per gram than 14K)
Testing Gold Purity
To test the purity of gold, you can use the:
Acid Test
Apply a drop of nitric acid to the surface of the gold item.
Pure gold remains unaffected, while alloys or fake gold may change color or dissolve.
For accurate results, use testing kits with various acid strengths to test different karats.
X-ray Fluorescence (XRF)
An XRF analyzer emits X-rays into the gold item and measures the energy released to determine its composition.
This method provides a precise analysis of gold content and purity in seconds.
Density Test
Measure the weight and volume of the gold item.
Calculate the density by dividing weight by volume. A density close to 19.3 grams per cubic centimetre suggests pure gold.
Vinegar Test
Apply a few drops of white vinegar to the gold item.
Pure gold will not change color, while fake gold may turn black or green.
Hallmark Identification
Look for a hallmark stamp on the gold item, which identifies its purity and manufacturer.
For example, at Egovin Jewelry, our gold pieces are hallmarked with 14k markings and come with a certificate of authenticity.
What Gold Purity Should You Buy or Wear?
This depends on the purpose of the purchase.
If you're looking for pieces you can wear all the time, you'll want something durable and comfortable. It is recommended to use 14K to 18K.
It's tough enough for daily life, but still has that beautiful gold lustre.
When you're buying gold purely as an investment, you want the most gold for your money.
For this, 22K to 24K is your go-to.
This higher purity means you're getting maximum value, and that's exactly what you want from an investment.
What Country Produces the Purest Gold?
When it comes to producing the highest purity gold, Switzerland consistently stands at the forefront.
Swiss refineries are renowned globally for their meticulous processes and ability to produce gold that is typically 99.99% pure (often referred to as "four nines fine").
Canada and Australia also produce high-purity gold.
Other countries with high-purity gold include South Africa and the United States, especially from Nevada mines.
Gold and Wealth
When you buy gold jewelry, you’re investing in a hedge against inflation, a store of value, and a symbol of wealth.
Bookmark this blog and return whenever you need clarity on gold purity.