Gold, a symbol of wealth and elegance, is one of the most prized precious metals in the world of jewelry. But did you know that there are several types of gold? 14 carats, 18 carats, 24 carats... Each category has its own particularities in terms of purity, quality and use. In this article, we explore in detail these different shades of gold, their specificities, the associated hallmarks and the importance of manufacturing in France.
What is karat in gold?
The carat is a unit of measurement that indicates the purity of gold. Pure gold is a soft, malleable metal, and it is rarely used as is in jewelry, because it would be too fragile. This is why it is mixed with other metals, such as copper, silver or palladium, to increase its resistance and offer different shades.
Calculation of purity
- 24 carat : 100% pure gold, or 24 parts out of 24.
- 18 carats : 75% pure gold, or 18 parts out of 24.
- 14 carats : 58.3% pure gold, or 14 parts out of 24.
24 carat gold: Absolute purity
Features
- Purity : 24 karat gold is the purest metal, containing 99.9% gold.
- Color : Intense and vibrant yellow.
- Use : Rare in jewelry, as it is too soft to be shaped into durable jewelry. It is mainly used for ingots, gold coins, and sometimes for traditional jewelry in some cultures.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Benefits : Unalterable, hypoallergenic, symbol of ultimate luxury.
- Disadvantages : Fragility and high price.
Associated punch
In France, 24 carat gold is marked with a hallmark representing a hippopotamus or an eagle.
18 carat gold: The perfect balance
Features
- Purity : Contains 75% gold and 25% other metals (silver, copper, etc.).
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Color : Varies depending on alloys:
- Yellow : Alloy of gold, silver and copper.
- White : Alloy of gold, nickel or palladium, often rhodium-plated for a shiny finish.
- Pink : Alloy of gold and copper.
- Use : Very popular in high-end jewelry because of its durability and beauty.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Advantages : Strong, wear-resistant, aesthetic, and high value.
- Disadvantages : More expensive than 14k gold.
Associated punch
The official French hallmark is an eagle's head for 18 carat gold.
14 Karat Gold: The Affordable and Durable Option
Features
- Purity : Contains 58.3% gold and 41.7% other metals.
- Color : Less intense than 18k gold, but available in yellow, white or pink.
- Use : Common in everyday jewelry, thanks to its excellent quality-price ratio.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Pros : Shock resistant, affordable, perfect for everyday use.
- Disadvantages : Less valuable and less shiny than 18 or 24 carat gold.
Associated punch
In France, 14 carat gold is marked with a clover or a shell.
Hallmarks: A guarantee of quality
In France, hallmarks are official marks that attest to the purity and origin of precious metals. Every piece of jewelry manufactured or sold in France must be hallmarked. Here are the main hallmarks associated with gold:
- 24 carat : Hippopotamus or eagle.
- 18 carat : Eagle head.
- 14 carat : Clover or shell.
These hallmarks are often affixed discreetly to jewelry, such as on clasps or rings.
Made in France: A guarantee of quality
French jewelry is renowned for its craftsmanship and high standards. Choosing a piece of jewelry made in France means opting for:
- Superior quality : French artisans master traditional and innovative techniques.
- An ethical commitment : Many workshops, such as those of GISEL B, favor recycled gold and environmentally friendly practices.
- Guaranteed traceability : The jewelry bears a hallmark that guarantees its origin and purity.
Which gold to choose?
The choice between 14, 18 and 24 carat gold depends on several factors:
- For everyday use : Choose 14 or 18 carat gold, which are more resistant.
- For a luxury jewel : 18 carat gold offers an excellent compromise between aesthetics and durability.
- For an investment or an exceptional piece of jewelry : 24 carat gold is the ultimate choice.
GISEL B and the art of working gold
At GISEL B, we exclusively use recycled 24-carat gold plated and solid silver to guarantee jewelry that is elegant, sustainable and ethical. Discover our collection of 24- carat gold plated and solid silver jewelry, handmade in our French workshops.
By choosing our creations, you support an artisanal and responsible approach, while offering a timeless jewel.
In summary, each type of gold has its advantages and meets specific needs. Whether it is a gift or a personal pleasure, the main thing is to choose a jewel that reflects your values and desires. 💛