Gold Purity: Chart, Karat, Hallmark & More

Understanding the Gold Purity Chart is one of the smartest moves you can make before buying gold jewellery. Whether you're shopping for investment pieces, everyday accessories, or luxury collections like KYMEE’s 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery, knowing how gold purity works helps you choose better, spend wisely, and enjoy long-lasting shine.

This post breaks everything down in a simple, Grade-7-friendly tone, no complicated formulas, no confusing jargon, just everything you need to know about gold purity explained clearly.

What is a Gold Purity Chart?

A Gold Purity Chart is a standardised reference showing how much pure gold is present in various types of gold, such as 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, and 24K. Since pure gold is too soft for everyday wear, jewellers mix it with other metals to form durable alloys. This chart helps you understand how “pure” your jewellery really is.

Why Gold Purity Matters Today

Gold purity affects:

• Durability
• Colour and shine
• Price and value
• Allergy-friendliness
• Longevity

If you want jewellery that lasts, especially pieces you’ll wear daily, knowing the purity sweet spot is essential.

How Gold Purity is Measured

Gold purity is measured in Karat (K) or Hallmark.

Karat System

Here’s what each common karat means:

• 24K = 100% pure gold (softest)
• 22K = 91.6% gold
• 18K = 75% gold
• 14K = 58.3% gold
• 10K = 41.7% gold

Millesimal Hallmark System

The fineness system uses numbers instead of karats:

• 999 → 24K
• 916 → 22K
• 750 → 18K
• 585 → 14K
• 417 → 10K

Detailed Gold Purity Chart (Complete Table)

Karat (K)	Gold %	Hallmark	Best For
24K	99.9%	999	Investment gold, coins, bars (too soft for jewellery)
23K	95.8%	958	High-end traditional jewellery (soft)
22K	91.6%	916	Premium jewellery, bridal sets, gold coins
21K	87.5%	875	Middle Eastern jewellery, luxury pieces
20K	83.3%	833	Quality jewellery, good balance of purity + strength
19K	79.1%	791	Custom jewellery requiring moderate durability
18K	75.0%	750	Fine jewellery, engagement rings, designer pieces
17K	70.8%	708	Durable wearable jewellery
16K	66.6%	666	Everyday jewellery with a gold appearance
15K	62.5%	625	Vintage British jewellery standards
14K	58.3%	583	Everyday wear, strong, most common
13K	54.1%	541	Cost-effective stronger jewellery
12K	50.0%	500	Gold-filled pieces, affordable jewellery
11K	45.8%	458	Durable budget jewellery
10K	41.7%	417	Very durable, the lowest karat allowed as “gold”
9K	37.5%	375	UK low-cost jewellery, strong and affordable
8K	33.3%	333	Fashion jewellery
7K	29.1%	291	Costume jewellery
6K	25.0%	250	Costume jewellery
5K	20.8%	208	Decorative items
4K	16.6%	166	Non-jewellery applications
3K	12.5%	125	Industrial use
2K	8.3%	083	Industrial alloys
1K	4.1%	041	Industrial use
0K	0%	000	No gold

Which Gold Purity is Best for Everyday Jewellery?

Although 24K and 22K are closest to pure gold, they’re soft and prone to bending. This makes 18K and 14K the most popular choices for long-lasting jewellery.

Durability Breakdown

• 14K: Very durable, lower cost, stronger alloy
• 18K: Has richer golden colour + premium feel

Tarnish Resistance

18K offers better tarnish resistance due to higher gold content, giving it a long-lasting warm glow.

18K Gold, Why It’s a Popular Choice

18K gold provides the optimal tensile strength without sacrificing its deep, natural golden hue. With 75% pure gold, it offers rich colour while staying strong enough for daily wear.

Why 18K is Perfect for Vermeil Jewellery

Gold vermeil requires thick gold plating over 925 sterling silver. Since 18K has the ideal colour and hardness, it’s the premium choice for authentic vermeil pieces, luxurious yet affordable.

KYMEE’s 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery: Luxury Meets Affordability

This is where things get exciting for jewellery lovers.

KYMEE is known for combining high-end visual appeal with surprisingly affordable pricing. The 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery stands out because it offers the luxury of real gold without the heavy price tag of solid 18K pieces.

What Makes KYMEE’s Gold Vermeil Special?

• A thick layer of 18K premium gold
• High-quality 925 sterling silver base
• Hypoallergenic
• Long-lasting shine
• Water-resistant coating

Benefits of Choosing KYMEE

• Brilliant gold colour that mimics fine jewellery
• Affordable without sacrificing quality
• Great for daily wear
• Perfect as gifts and fashion staples
• Lifetime plating warranty

How to Verify Gold Purity at Home

You don’t need fancy tools to check your gold.

1. Hallmark Check

Look for stamps like:

• 750 (18K)
• 585 (14K)
• 916 (22K)

2. Magnet Test

Gold is non-magnetic.

3. Density Test

Pure gold is denser than most metals.

These quick checks help ensure authenticity.

Caring for Different Gold Purity Levels

To keep your jewellery glowing:

Best Care Tips

• Store separately to prevent scratches
• Clean with mild soap and warm water
• Avoid harsh chemicals
• Wipe after every wear

Mistakes to Avoid

• Wearing gold in chlorine pools
• Storing jewellery in humid areas
• Using abrasive cloths

Conclusion

A Gold Purity Chart is an essential guide for anyone purchasing gold jewellery. Understanding karats, hallmark, and durability helps you choose pieces that last and shine beautifully. If you want the perfect blend of luxury and affordability, KYMEE’s 18K Gold Vermeil Jewellery is a brilliant choice. With stunning craftsmanship and rich gold colour, their designs offer elegance without breaking the bank.

FAQs

1. What is the best gold purity for daily wear?

18K and 14K are ideal due to their balance of purity and durability.

2. Is 24K gold good for jewellery?

Not for everyday use, it’s too soft.

3. Does gold vermeil tarnish?

Quality vermeil, like KYMEE’s 18K pieces, is long-lasting and slow to tarnish.

4. Is 18K gold hypoallergenic?

Yes! It contains fewer alloy metals than 14K or 10K.

5. Can you shower with gold vermeil?

Technically, yes, though avoiding water helps maintain shine longer.

6. Where can you learn more about gold standards?

You can refer to resources like the World Gold Council.