Understanding Gold Purity
Gold purity is measured in karats (K), with 24K being the purest form. The karat system divides gold into 24 parts — so 24K gold means all 24 parts are pure gold, while 22K means 22 parts are gold and 2 parts are other metals.
Gold Purity Chart
| Karat | Purity | Gold % | Other Metals % | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 999 | 99.9% | 0.1% | Investment, coins, bars |
| 22K | 916 | 91.6% | 8.4% | Fine jewelry |
| 18K | 750 | 75.0% | 25.0% | Studded jewelry, watches |
| 14K | 585 | 58.5% | 41.5% | Budget jewelry |
24K Gold: The Purest Form
24K gold is 99.9% pure gold with virtually no other metals mixed in. It has a rich, bright yellow color that is distinctly different from lower karats.
Characteristics of 24K Gold
- Color: Bright, vivid yellow
- Hardness: Very soft and malleable
- Durability: Scratches and bends easily
- Price: Highest per gram among all karats
- BIS Hallmark: 999
When to Choose 24K Gold
- Gold coins and bars: 24K is the standard for investment-grade gold
- Gold ETFs and SGBs: These are denominated in 24K gold
- Resale value: Fetches the highest price per gram when selling
- Gift giving: 24K gold coins are prestigious gifts
Today's 24K Gold Rate
24K gold currently trades at approximately ₹7,800-8,200 per gram in India. Check the exact rate for your city using our live gold rates page.
22K Gold: The Jewelry Standard
22K gold contains 91.6% pure gold mixed with 8.4% other metals (usually copper, silver, or zinc). This alloy is significantly harder than 24K, making it suitable for jewelry.
Characteristics of 22K Gold
- Color: Slightly less yellow than 24K, warmer tone
- Hardness: Much harder than 24K, holds shape well
- Durability: Resistant to scratches and bending
- Price: ~8% less than 24K per gram
- BIS Hallmark: 916
When to Choose 22K Gold
- Wedding jewelry: The standard for Indian wedding gold
- Daily wear jewelry: Durable enough for everyday use
- Traditional designs: Holds intricate designs without losing shape
- Temple jewelry: Traditional South Indian jewelry is typically 22K
24K vs 22K: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | 24K Gold | 22K Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | 99.9% | 91.6% |
| Price | Higher | ~8% lower |
| Durability | Soft, bends easily | Hard, holds shape |
| Color | Bright yellow | Warm yellow |
| Best for | Investment | Jewelry |
| Resale value | Highest per gram | Slightly lower per gram |
| Making charges | Minimal (bars/coins) | 8-25% (jewelry) |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Regular polishing |
| Availability | Banks, dealers | Jewelers everywhere |
Which is Better for Investment?
24K gold wins for pure investment purposes. Here's why:
- No making charges: 24K coins and bars have minimal making charges (1-5%), while 22K jewelry has 8-25% making charges that are lost money
- Higher resale per gram: You get the full gold rate when selling 24K, minus a small margin
- Standardized: 24K is the global standard for gold trading
- No wastage: Unlike jewelry where 2-7% gold may be wasted in manufacturing
Investment Returns Example
If you invest ₹5,00,000 in gold:
| Option | Effective Gold Purchased | Value if Gold Rises 15% |
|---|---|---|
| 24K coins (2% premium) | ₹4,90,000 worth | ₹5,63,500 |
| 22K jewelry (15% making charges) | ₹4,25,000 worth | ₹4,88,750 |
| Gold ETF (0.5% expense) | ₹4,97,500 worth | ₹5,72,125 |
Which is Better for Jewelry?
22K gold wins for jewelry purposes. Here's why:
- Durability: 22K can withstand daily wear without losing shape
- Design flexibility: Jewelers can craft intricate designs
- Cultural tradition: Indian gold jewelry has traditionally been 22K
- Color: Many people prefer the warm tone of 22K
The 18K Option
For budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer studded jewelry (with diamonds or gemstones), 18K gold offers a good balance. It's harder than 22K, costs 25% less, and holds stones securely.
How to Verify Gold Purity
- BIS Hallmark: Look for the BIS logo, purity number (999/916/750), and jeweler's code
- XRF Testing: Ask the jeweler for XRF (X-ray fluorescence) testing
- HUID: Since 2021, every hallmarked gold piece carries a unique Hallmark Unique ID (HUID) that can be verified online
Conclusion
- For investment: Choose 24K gold coins, bars, ETFs, or SGBs
- For jewelry: Choose 22K for traditional designs, 18K for studded pieces
- For both: Buy 22K jewelry you'll actually wear, and invest separately in 24K through ETFs or SGBs
Compare 24K and 22K gold prices across Indian cities on our [City Rates](/cities) page.
