Karat vs. Carat: Don’t Mix These Up!
If you’ve ever browsed jewelry online or chatted with a jeweler, you’ve probably come across the words karat and carat. They sound the same and even look similar, but don’t be fooled, they’re not interchangeable. One’s talking about gold, and the other is all about gemstones.
Karat and Carat are easy to confuse when someone goes to the online jewelry store (and get confused often), but if you're about to shop for fancy jewelry, knowing the difference can save you some costly confusion. Whether you want to purchase a gold band or glittery diamond necklace, knowing what word (Karat and Carat) means what can help you make better choices.
Karat: the unit of gold purity measurement
When it comes to gold, karat is a way of gold quality/purity measurement. So if you've ever been curious about what 24K gold earrings for women really are, here's the lowdown: karat refers to the amount of pure gold contained within a piece of jewelry as a fraction of 24 parts. So, 24K is 100% pure gold.
On the other hand, 18K rose gold diamond earrings contain 18 units of gold and 6 units of other metals (such as silver, copper, or nickel). These combinations are what make gold stronger and more durable because gold, being pure, is quite soft. Therefore, the lower the karat, the more metals are mixed in. This doesn't render it counterfeit; it simply renders it useable for daily wear.
Carat: the unit of diamond weight measurement
When individuals discuss the size of a diamond in custom designer engagement rings, they are discussing its carat; with a "C." A carat is used to measure the weight of a diamond, not the size (although greater weight tends to be larger in appearance).
Just keep in mind: Higher-carat rose gold diamond earrings don't necessarily equal a more gorgeous diamond. So when you're engagement ring shopping or browsing some frosty earrings, understanding carats can assist you in making wiser (and glitzier) decisions.
High fashion jewelry with K (karat) & C (carat)
Rosé gold band with diamonds (14 karat & 1.50 total carat weight)
Rosé Gold GALA Band is your partner in glamour with a touch of soft, romantic sophistication. Designed at Sofia Jewelry in 14K rose gold and adorned with a total of 1.50 carats of brilliant white diamonds, this band is both bold and lovely. The warm blush tone of rose gold perfectly complements the icy brilliance of the diamonds, making it ideal for everything from daily wear to special nights out.
Gold band with diamonds (14 karat & 0.12 total carat weight)
Low-key glamour is what's on with the THEDA Band. Sleek 14K gold and topped with 0.12 total carat weight diamonds, this ring embraces modern fashion. No matter if it's your first diamond band or your second go-to stacker, these custom designer engagement rings custom designer engagement rings add subtle sophistication to your wardrobe.
Open floral bracelet with diamonds (18 karat & 0.50 total carat weight)
Dainty but statement-making, the Open Floral Bracelet brings a lively, feminine aspect to any wrist. Crafted in luxe 18K gold and set with 0.50 total carats of dazzling diamonds, this open-floral design women gold bracelets are elevated with brilliance. If you adore jewelry that combines nature-inspired loveliness with upscale glitz, then this lovely floral design is a garden party on your wrist.
Bracelet with diamonds (14 karat & 4.29 total carat weight)
These Flexible women gold bracelets are made of 14K gold and positively bursting with sparkle. This bracelet is featuring a whopping 4.29 total carats of luminous diamonds. Made for comfort and ease of movement, the pliable setting curves elegantly onto your wrist and provides a show-stopping sparkle in every direction.
Stud diamond gold earrings (18 karat & 0.56 total carat weight)
Elegant and classic, these Gold Flower Stud Earrings are a blooming sweetheart. Made in bright 18K gold and studded with 0.56 total carats of diamonds, these gold earrings for women add just the perfect amount of shine to your lobes. The flower motif adds a sweet, gentle charm while the diamonds sparkle with every movement.
Gold diamond hoops (18 karat & 0.96 total carat weight)
These hoops are handcrafted in 18K gold and totaling 0.96 carats of sparkling diamonds. These hoops available at this online jewelry store add just the right touch of shine without going overboard. Whatever errands you need to run, the office you're headed to, or the cocktail you're having, these hoops instantly elevate your style.
FAQs
Can you use carat and karat interchangeably?
Nope! Although they are pronounced the same, they're used for completely different things in the world of jewelry.
What's more valuable; more karat gold or more carat diamond?
It depends on the piece. A big, good-quality diamond may be more valuable than gold, but both are very valuable.
How do I know if a ring's karat or carat is stamped?
Look in the hallmark within the band for karat (e.g., 14K). Carat is often found in a diamond certificate or product description.
Is 14K gold actually gold?
Yes! 14K gold contains 58.3% pure gold, combined with other metals to make it stronger and wearable.
Why do both words matter when purchasing jewelry?
Understanding the difference allows you to know what you're paying for gold purity or diamond weight; so you can shop intelligently!