What is the Difference Between 22k and 24k Gold?

Gold is treasured worldwide for its beauty and value. In India, gold is traditionally measured in karats, reflecting its purity. Among the many varieties, 22 Karat gold and 24 Karat gold are most popular. Knowing the difference between these two is essential before buying jewellery as well as for investment purposes. While 24K gold is pure, 22K gold contains other metals for enhanced durability. Here you can understand the distinctions between 22 Karat gold vs 24 Karat gold, helping you understand which type can better suit your needs. 

22 Karat gold contains 91.6% pure gold blended with other metals like copper, silver, and zinc. It balances purity with strength, making it widely used for Indian jewellery. The added metals improve its durability and resistance to scratches. This combination makes 22K gold ideal for daily wear jewellery. 

Key Points

• It contains 22 parts of gold out of 24 parts

• Mixed with alloys to enhance hardness

• Slightly less yellow than pure gold

• Popular in Indian ornaments due to their durability

• Less prone to damage compared to 24K gold

24 Karat gold is pure gold with 99.9% purity, meaning it contains almost no other metals or alloys. It is bright yellow and soft, making it ideal for investment rather than daily jewellery use. Due to its softness, 24K gold jewellery can bend or scratch easily. 

Key Points

• Composed of 24 parts pure gold out of 24 parts total

• Has a rich, deep yellow colour

• Soft and malleable, meaning it can be scratched or bent easily

• Preferred for investment and bullion coins

• Not recommended for everyday wear jewellery

Understanding purity is key to distinguishing between 22K and 24K gold. Purity is measured through composition, hallmarking, and verification methods. 

Composition

• 22K gold contains 91.6% gold mixed with alloys for strength

• 24K gold is nearly 100% gold with almost no other metals

• Alloys in 22K gold can include copper and silver

• Pure gold in 24K has a softer, richer look

• Composition affects colour, price, and usage

Hallmarking

• Hallmarks certify purity and authenticity in both types.

• 22K gold usually has a BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) hallmark indicating 916 purity.

• 24K gold has a BIS hallmark showing 999 purity. 

• Hallmarks protect buyers from fraud and provide transparency.

• Jewellers must provide verified hallmarking on gold sold. 

Methods for Verifying Purity

• Acid Test: Different acids react according to gold karat purity, helping identify if alloyed metal is present. 

• Electronic Gold Testers: Measure the electrical conductivity specific to karat purity. 

• X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis: Non-invasive and precise way to detect gold purity. 

• Touchstone Testing: A traditional method involving rubbing gold on stone and observing an acid reaction. 

• BIS Hallmark Verification: Check trademarks for certified purity.

The term karat defines the purity level of gold, indicating how much pure gold is present out of 24 parts total. 

22 Karat Gold

• Contains 22 parts pure gold and 2 parts other metals

• Slightly less pure but more durable for jewellery use

• Has a lighter golden hue compared to 24K

• Alloy metals make it stronger and scratch-resistant

• Allows for intricate designs that hold shape well

24 Karat Gold

• 24 parts pure gold, indicating nearly 100% purity

• Has the brightest and richest yellow colour

• Soft and malleable, making it more prone to damage

• Commonly used for gold bars, coins, and investments

• Purest form with a higher market value and liquidity 

Choosing between 22 Karat gold and 24 Karat gold depends on your priorities.

• 24K gold might be better for pure investment due to its high purity and market demand.

• 22K gold is often preferable if you want gold jewellery that lasts long and retains its shape.

• 22K gold’s durability makes it ideal for daily wear and traditional designs.

• 24K gold can be fragile and less practical for frequent use.

Each has its unique qualities suitable for different financial goals or lifestyles. 

When it comes to jewellery, certain aspects determine the better choice: 

• 22K gold is favoured for jewellery due to its strength and ability to hold detailed designs.

• It is less prone to bending and scratching, making it suitable for everyday wear.

• 24K gold jewellery, while radiant, should be worn occasionally to avoid damage.

• The alloy metals in 22K gold can allow jewellers to craft complex shapes.

• 22K gold jewellery offers a good balance between purity and durability for long-term use.