Gold is a precious metal that has been used for centuries as a store of value and a symbol of wealth. When it comes to buying gold, there are different karats of gold available in the market. Karat or K is the term used to measure the purity of gold. The higher the karat value, the higher is the purity of gold. The measurement for gold purity is done on a scale from 0-24, where 24K gold is the purest you can buy. In this article, we will discuss the difference between 24 karat and 22 karat gold, the properties of 24K gold, and its uses.
Understanding the difference between 24 karat and 22 karat gold
Before understanding the difference between 22K and 24K gold, one must know what K or karat stands for. It is a term used to measure the purity of gold. The higher the karat value, the purer the gold would be. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 24. With this in mind, 24K gold is the purest gold you can buy. 24K gold contains 99.9% gold whereas 22K gold contains 91.7% gold[1]. The difference between 24K and 22K gold is the presence of other metals in 22K gold. 22K gold is mixed with other metals such as copper, silver, nickel, and zinc to make it harder and more durable than 24K gold. Due to the presence of additional metals in 22K gold, it is used in making jewelry and coins[1].
Properties of 24K gold
The factor that makes 24 karat gold so completely alluring is the fact that it is 100%, as-pure-as-it-gets gold. In other words, it is non-alloyed. If gold is alloyed then it consists of gold that is combined with varying ratios of other metals or ‘alloying additions’ such as nickel, silver, zinc, and copper. Due to the absolute purity of 24 karat gold, its color is a rich and royal yellow. It exudes an elevated level of class that is unmatched by other karats of gold[2]. However, 24K gold is too soft to resist wear and tear. The presence of additional metals in 22K gold helps to make the jewelry more durable[1].
Uses of 24K gold
Due to its pure composition, 24K gold is most commonly used in the production of electronic or medical devices. It is also frequently used to make coins and bars which are purchased and resold as relatively-assured financial investments[2]. If you are purchasing gold as an investment or emergency fund (or perhaps portfolio diversification) then go for 24K gold. 24K gold contains 99.9% gold whereas 22K gold contains 91.7% gold. When you are buying a 24K gold coin/bar, always look for
Citations:
[1] http://www.paisabazaar.com/gold-rate/compare-22-ct-gold-vs-24-ct-gold/
[2] trulyexperiences.com/blog/24k-gold/
[3] http://www.ganoksin.com/article/hard-22-carat-gold-alloy/
[4] auvere.com
[5] http://www.bhindi.com
[6] http://www.bankbazaar.com/gold-rate/different-gold-karats.html
[7] http://www.gold.org/about-gold/about-gold-jewellery
[8] http://www.totaram.com/22k-gold-jewelry/24k-jewelry.html
[9] goldpalace.com
[10] scripbox.com/pf/difference-between-22k-and-24k-gold/
[11] http://www.diffen.com/difference/18k_Gold_vs_24k_Gold
[12] gurhan.com/collections/gold-jewelry
[13] andaazjewels.com
[14] schiffgold.com/faq3/24k-vs-22k-gold-coins/
[15] http://www.iconicjewelry.com/all-about-24k-gold-pros-cons-price-and-purity/
[16] mene.com
[17] http://www.melorra.com/jewellery-guide-education/gold/purity/gold-karat-types/
[18] vivalatina-shop.com/blogs/custom-made-jewelry/meaning-of-24-karat-gold-purity
[19] maisonlaurea.com
[20] shop.kenanddanadesign.com/pages/gold-10k-14k-18k-22k-24k
[21] http://www.martinbuschjewelers.com/blogs/news/whats-the-difference-between-10k-14k-18k-and-24k-gold
[22] cevherun.com
[23] http://www.iifl.com/blogs/gold-loan/what-is-24k-and-22k-gold
[24] lfxjewelry.com/collections/24k-gold%5B25%5D
what are the disadvantages of buying 24 karat gold over 22 karat gold
When it comes to buying gold, there are different karats of gold available in the market. Karat or K is the term used to measure the purity of gold. The higher the karat value, the higher is the purity of gold. The measurement for gold purity is done on a scale from 0-24, where 24K gold is the purest you can buy. Here are some disadvantages of buying 24 karat gold over 22 karat gold:
1. Softness: 24K gold is too soft to resist wear and tear. Due to its extreme malleability and softness, pure gold is less suitable for some jewelry applications where durability is an issue. The presence of additional metals in 22K gold helps to make the jewelry more durable[1][3][6].
2. Durability: The added metals in 22K products make them far more durable than pure 24K gold, which is a notoriously soft and pliable metal. Investors who plan on trading or handling their coins more often might find this durability more valuable[4][5].
3. Price: 24K gold is the purest form of gold and is generally more expensive than 22K gold. Due to its high purity, 24K gold is frequently used to make gold bars and coins or for investment purposes. On the other hand, 22K gold is favored by many worldwide and is frequently used in traditional jewelry designs[1][6].
4. Availability: 24K gold is less popular to make gold jewelry due to its non-durable nature. Instead, it is used for electrical devices and other medical equipment. On the other hand, 22K gold is used in making jewelry and coins[1].
In conclusion, while 24K gold is the purest form of gold, it is not always the best option for jewelry due to its softness and lack of durability. 22K gold, on the other hand, is more durable and is frequently used in traditional jewelry designs. When it comes to investing in gold, 24K gold is a good option due to its high purity.
Citations:
[1] http://www.iifl.com/blogs/gold-loan/what-is-24k-and-22k-gold
[2] http://www.bankbazaar.com/gold-rate/different-gold-karats.html
[3] http://www.melorra.com/jewellery-guide-education/gold/purity/gold-karat-types/
[4] schiffgold.com/faq/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-24k-vs-22k-gold-coins/
[5] schiffgold.com/faq3/24k-vs-22k-gold-coins/
[6] http://www.paisabazaar.com/gold-rate/compare-22-ct-gold-vs-24-ct-gold/
F.A.Q.
- What is 22ct gold?
22ct gold is a type of gold that is 91.67% pure gold and 8.33% other metals such as copper, silver, nickel, and zinc. It is commonly used in making jewelry and coins. - What is the current price of 22ct gold?
The price of 22ct gold varies depending on the location and market conditions. You can check the current price of 22ct gold in your area by searching online or checking with a local jeweler. - How is the price of gold determined?
The price of gold is determined by various factors such as supply and demand, global economic conditions, inflation, and currency fluctuations. The price of gold is also influenced by the purity of gold, with higher purity gold being more expensive. - What is the difference between 22ct and 24ct gold?
The main difference between 22ct and 24ct gold is the purity of gold. 22ct gold is 91.67% pure gold and 8.33% other metals, while 24ct gold is 99.9% pure gold. 24ct gold is softer and more malleable than 22ct gold, making it less suitable for jewelry. - Is 22ct gold a good investment?
Gold is generally considered a good investment due to its ability to retain its value over time. 22ct gold can be a good investment option for those who want to invest in gold jewelry or coins. - What are the advantages of buying 22ct gold over 24ct gold?
The advantages of buying 22ct gold over 24ct gold include its durability and suitability for making jewelry. 22ct gold is harder and more durable than 24ct gold, making it a better option for jewelry that will be worn frequently. - What are the disadvantages of buying 22ct gold over 24ct gold?
The disadvantages of buying 22ct gold over 24ct gold include its lower purity and higher price compared to 24ct gold. 22ct gold is also less malleable than 24ct gold, making it more difficult to work with. - Where can I buy 22ct gold?
You can buy 22ct gold from a local jeweler, online retailers, or gold dealers. It is important to do your research and buy from a reputable seller to ensure that you are getting genuine 22ct gold at a fair price.