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01What does karat mean?
Karat (K) is the traditional unit for the gold content of an alloy. Pure gold is 24 karat – so each step stands for 1/24 of the total weight. 14 karat means that 14 of 24 parts are pure gold.
In Europe the gold content is usually given as fineness in thousandths and stamped into the piece: 585 means that 585 of 1,000 parts are pure gold – which equals 14 karat. The rest consists of other metals such as silver and copper, which determine color and hardness.
8 karat
33.3 %
14 karat
58.5 %
18 karat
75.0 %
21 karat
87.5 %
22 karat
91.6 %
24 karat
99.9 %
Pure gold content in per cent; the rest of the alloy consists of other metals.
02The gold alloys at a glance
In our goldsmith workshop we make jewelry in all common alloys. Which version is available for a design is stated in its product description – we are happy to make other alloys on request.
8 karat
33333.3 % pure gold
- Light, subtle gold tone
- Very hard and scratch-resistant
- An affordable way into real gold jewelry
14 karat
58558.5 % pure gold
- Warm, classic gold tone
- Balanced between shine and stability
- Ideal for jewelry worn every day
Our use: letter and name necklaces
18 karat
75075.0 % pure gold
- Intense, warm gold tone
- Refined, high-quality look
- Popular for one-of-a-kind pieces and special occasions
21 karat
87587.5 % pure gold
- Rich, traditional gold tone
- High gold content, somewhat softer
- Valued for traditional jewelry designs
22 karat
91691.6 % pure gold
- Deep, strong yellow-gold tone
- High material value
- Softer – wear with care
Our use: gold bangles
24 karat
99999.9 % pure gold
- Fine gold in its purest form
- Very soft and easily deformed
- Better suited to collector’s pieces than everyday wear
03Which alloy suits you?
| Use | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Jewelry worn every day | 8 K (333) – 14 K (585) | Hard and scratch-resistant, robust in everyday life |
| Personalized necklaces | 14 K (585) – 18 K (750) | Refined shine with good stability – ideal for name and letter necklaces |
| Gifts & special occasions | 18 K (750) | Warm gold tone, high sentimental and material value |
| Bangles & traditional jewelry | 21 K (875) – 22 K (916) | Rich gold tone and high gold content |
| Collector’s and value pieces | 24 K (999) | Highest gold content, too soft for daily wear |
04Reading the hallmark
The hallmark – usually on the inside of a bangle, on the clasp or on the bail – states the fineness in thousandths. It is the most reliable indication of the alloy used:
- 333 = 8 karat
- 585 = 14 karat
- 750 = 18 karat
- 875 = 21 karat
- 916 = 22 karat
- 999 = 24 karat (fine gold)
05Quality and transparency at Azra Juwelier
- We work exclusively with genuine, certified gold.
- The exact fineness is stated for every product in our shop.
- For custom pieces you receive all material details before you buy.
- Every piece is carefully finished by hand in our goldsmith workshop.
Not sure which alloy is right?
We will advise you personally – by phone, WhatsApp or email.