What 14K and 18K gold mean
Fourteen-karat gold is 58.5 percent pure gold, while 18-karat gold is 75 percent pure gold. The remaining alloy metals help determine color, hardness, weight, and how the finished piece behaves in daily wear.
Choose for wear as well as appearance
14K gold is often selected for frequently worn jewelry because its higher alloy content can provide additional resistance to scratching and deformation. 18K gold has a richer gold content and color, but the best choice also depends on the design, dimensions, setting style, and the wearer's routine.
Color differs by alloy and maker
Yellow, white, and rose gold are created with different alloy recipes. Compare actual metal samples when possible because two pieces carrying the same karat stamp can still vary in tone. White gold may also use a surface finish such as rhodium that requires future maintenance.
Price the complete design
A useful custom quote should specify karat, metal color, estimated finished weight, dimensions, stone details, labor, and any maintenance considerations. Gold price is only one part of the total; construction and stone setting can be equally important.