Gold Karat Explained: Why 10K, 14K, and 18K Are Priced Differently
If you are preparing to sell gold jewelry or sorting through inherited items alongside plans to sell old coins , understanding gold karats is essential. Karat markings—such as 10K, 14K, and 18K—are not just labels; they directly determine how much your gold is worth. Many sellers are surprised to learn how dramatically price can change based on karat alone. This guide explains what gold karats mean, why they’re priced differently, and how that knowledge helps you recognize fair value when selling. What “Karat” Really Means “Karat” (K) measures gold purity , not weight. Pure gold is defined as 24 karats. Because pure gold is very soft, most jewelry is made by mixing gold with other metals to increase durability. Here’s how common karats break down: 24K = 99.9% pure gold 18K = 75% pure gold 14K = 58.5% pure gold 10K = 41.7% pure gold The remaining percentage consists of alloy metals such as copper, silver, or zinc. The higher the karat, the more actual gold the item contains—a...