18K Gold vs. 14K Gold
14K gold is purchased by the majority of consumers in the United States. Gold jewelry is very popular today. One reason is because gold does not react to other elements, so it does not tarnish. Of course, there are some people that may have an allergic reaction to gold, but this is very rare. Pure gold is 24K. Normally, 24K is not used to make rings because it is too soft for jewelry. Often times, it comes down between the choice of 14K gold and 18K gold. So what are the differences between 14K gold and 18K gold?
Since rings can not be made as pure gold, a process is performed called alloying. What this does is mix the pure gold with other elements to make the gold stronger. With the process of alloying is how white gold is made as well. Pure gold is very soft until mixed with other elements to improve durability of the gold. The three most common elements that are mixed with gold for durability and color of the gold are nickel, silver, and copper.
14K gold is 58.3 percent gold whereas 18K gold is 75 percent gold. 18K gold will have more yellow in the color tint and be a much purer gold than the 14K gold. In Europe 18K is very popular and is purchased by most. Here in the United States, 14K gold is purchased more often by popularity. Claims have been made that if you work with your hands often or are very physically active that 14K gold may be better than 18K gold.
If one is on a budget and trying to decide whether to buy 14K gold or 18K gold then 14K gold should be bought. 14K gold is a less pure gold and therefore of lesser value. It is less expensive, but still high of quality and magnificently beautiful. Almost any woman would love to have it. Often times, you are unable to tell the difference between the two by looking at them.
When buying jewelry, the piece of jewelry should be very clearly marked as to whether it is 14K gold or 18K gold. This informs the buyer what quality of gold they are buying. The marking can be very important since you can usually not tell the difference between 14K gold and 18K gold by the naked eye.
14K gold and 18K gold are both very popular today, although 14K gold is more popular in the United States. You will find more engagement and wedding rings that are 14K gold rather than 18K gold. The reason for this is that 14K gold is a stronger gold and is a bit less expensive. 18K gold can be anywhere from 20 to 25 percent more expensive than 14K gold. No matter which karat gold you choose make sure that it is able to hold up the wear and tear of everyday life. To be safe, the best option would be to buy a ring, bracelet, necklace, etc., that is 14K gold.
|
VIEW CART |
WISH LIST |
MY ACCOUNT
| LOGIN
