What do karats mean in gold jewelry?

What does the term “karatage” mean?

Karatage determines how many parts of pure gold exist in an alloy, out of a total of 24 parts. Pure gold is 24 karat (24k), composed entirely of gold. An 18k piece contains 18 parts of pure gold and 6 parts of other metals, such as silver or palladium, which improve its resistance without altering its deep tone.

Common karatages

The most common karatages are 24k, 22k, 18k, 14k, and 10k. 24k is the purest, but also the softest. At PALESSI, we work primarily with 18k solid gold for its balance between purity, intense color, and durability. For pieces that require greater structural hardness, such as thick chains or heavy designs, we may opt for 14k to ensure stability without compromising visual luxury.

Why we don't use 10k gold

Although 10k is common in commercial jewelry due to its low cost, we do not use it at PALESSI. It contains only 41.7% pure gold and 58.3% alloyed metals—such as copper and other components that can cause oxidation, discoloration, or allergic reactions on sensitive skin. Furthermore, its tone is less deep and tends to lose its shine over time. We believe that luxury should feel good, not just look good.

Appearance, durability, and price

Higher karat gold (22k–24k) offers a warmer and purer color, but is softer. Lower karat gold (10k–14k) is lighter and more resistant, though less noble. 18k gold, our hallmark, retains the perfect color of authentic gold with the ideal resistance for daily wear. The higher the karat, the greater the purity and intrinsic value of the material.

At PALESSI, we believe that authentic luxury is felt on the skin and lasts over time. That is why we work exclusively with 18k solid gold—and, in specific pieces, 14k—ensuring that every piece of jewelry retains its color, its value, and its history for generations.