Understanding Different Types of Gold: 10k, 14k, 18k, and 24k

If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between 10k, 14k, 18k, and 24k gold, you’re not alone. It’s one of those questions I get a lot here at Nova Lita. They may all seem similar, but when you're shopping for jewelry it's something you should pay attention to. 

What Does "Karat" Mean?

Let's start with what "karat" means. You see it all the time, right? 14k, 18k, 24k... but what does it actually mean? Simply put, "karat" is a way to measure how much of your piece is pure gold. Pure gold is 24 karats, which means it’s 100% gold—nothing else mixed in. And then as you go through different karats, you can determine the general purity by looking at the number as a fraction. 18k gold is around 75% pure gold (18/24 = 75%) and 14k would be around 58% pure gold (14/24 = 58%). While pure gold sounds like it's the best, there are real benefits to using 14k or 18k gold for making and wearing fine jewelry.

24k Gold: Pure and Pretty, But Not Always Practical

24k gold is the purest form of gold you can get. It’s bright, beautiful, and really stands out. But here’s the downside—pure gold can be very soft, and it can scratch, dent and bend fairly easily. This is why 24k gold isn’t usually the best choice for things like rings or bracelets that you wear all the time. With daily wear, it's too easy to damage pure gold. It’s more often used in pieces that are special or don’t get much wear and tear, like a family heirloom or something you keep for special occasions.

18k Gold: A Nice Mix of Purity and Strength

Now, let’s talk about 18k gold. This is one of my favorites to work with. It’s 75% pure gold, with the other 25% made up of other metals like copper, silver, or palladium. The result is a gold that’s still got that beautiful, rich color, but it’s also strong enough to hold up to daily wear.

I love using 18k gold at Nova Lita because it is still luxurious, but doesn’t need to be babied. It’s perfect for those special pieces—like a stunning necklace or a pair of earrings you wear on a night out. It’s got that extra bit of richness to it that makes it feel special without being too delicate.

14k Gold: The Everyday Hero

Now, 14k gold is where things get interesting. This is the gold I use most often at Nova Lita, and for good reason. It’s 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% other metals. This mix makes it super durable—great for everyday wear.

Why do I love 14k gold? Well, it’s got a lovely golden color, and it’s tough enough to handle life’s little bumps and scratches. Whether it’s a wedding band, a simple chain, or a pair of hoops, 14k gold is strong, beautiful, and reliable. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants something they can wear every day without worrying about it getting damaged.

10k Gold: Affordable and Durable for Everyday Wear

Let's give 10k gold some love. Sure, it’s 41.7% pure gold (10 parts out of 24), but that mix makes it super tough—more durable than higher karat golds. If you’re someone who’s always on the move or just want jewelry that can handle a bit of rough and tumble, 10k gold is your go-to.

So, while it might not be as rich in color as 18k or as balanced as 14k, 10k gold is strong, practical, and perfect for those who want good-looking jewelry that lasts. At Nova Lita, we think 10k gold deserves a spot in your collection!

Why I Mostly Use 14k and 18k Gold at Nova Lita

So, why do I focus mostly on 14k and 18k gold at Nova Lita? Well, it’s simple: they’re the best of both worlds. With 14k gold, you get a strong, durable piece of jewelry that you don’t have to worry about. It’s perfect for everyday wear, and it looks fantastic. On the other hand, 18k gold offers that touch of luxury, with a richer color and higher gold content. It’s ideal for those pieces you want to feel a bit more special.

I hope this helps clear up some of the mystery around the different types of gold. Whether you’re just starting your jewelry collection or adding to it, knowing the difference between 10k, 14k, 18k, and 24k gold can help you make the best choice for you. At Nova Lita, I take pride in creating pieces that aren’t just beautiful but are meant to be worn and enjoyed. So, whatever type of gold you choose, you can trust that you’re getting something special. Happy shopping!