Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Precious Metals and other Jewelry topics.

What is karat?

Karat

Ever wonder what karat means in reference to gold? Pure gold is 24K, but it is soft and easy to dent or bend so it is alloyed with other metals to make it sturdier. When you see other numbers this is how many parts of the gold alloy are pure gold. 14K means it is 14 out of 24 parts pure gold and 10 parts other metals (copper, tin, zinc, silver). 18K is 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals.

Comments

Nobody has commented on this tip yet. Be the first.

Ask a Question

Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Jewelry Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!

Guru Spotlight

Linda Handiak

Ever wonder how you could make your life better and more fun? So have tens of millions of fans who have turned to LifeTips for answers over the past decade. We keep the tips, advice, books, podcasts and writing services flowing, so you can keep your life and business growing in the right direction. Upward!