Why is jewelry made with 18k gold better than 14k?
If you’re a jewelry fan, you’ve probably heard of the terms ’18k gold’ and ’14k gold’. But what are their differences? One key distinction is that 18k gold is less likely to tarnish. On the other hand, 14k gold might not be so damage-resistant. While many people tend to buy 14k gold jewelry because it is less expensive, the truth is that 18k gold is higher quality.
In this post, we will tell you why it is so much better and why you should buy your jewelry in 18k gold. Are you ready?
Differences between 18k gold and 14k gold: Which one is right for you?
As we mentioned above, these two karat types have many differences. The main difference is the percentage of gold each one contains. 18k gold is purer than 14k gold. Yes, they both contain other metals, such as silver, but they don’t have the same amount of purity.
So, what do we recommend? 18k gold. It is purer, will last longer, and will look better since it has a more vibrant color than lower-karat gold. The one that’s right for you depends mainly on your preference. Not everyone likes the same things. Which do you like the most?
Durability
We’ve mentioned the gold purity. But what about durability? Some people say 14k gold is more durable. Other people argue that 18k gold is. This can lead to confusion. 14k gold is mainly used in detailed rings because it provides a stronger metal and ensures the diamond or gem stays in place. But aesthetically, 18k gold looks much more radiant.
Is 18k gold better than 14k gold? Well, not exactly. But your choice will depend on the factors we’ve summed up. There is so much to consider, most importantly what you like.
Lifestyle
While on the topic of durability, whether one is better than the other depends on your lifestyle. For example, 14k gold might be better for you if you regularly work with your hands or have an active lifestyle since it will last longer. It’s also ideal for everyday use. 18k gold, on the other hand, needs more care and is much more delicatedel.
However, if you only like wearing jewelry for special occasions, 18k gold is the right choiceone for you. You will not only look better, but you will be able to match your jewelry with more accessories. At Ale Yu, we have the best ones for you.
Skin tone and sensitivity
Do you like matching your accessories with your skin tone? Gold metal comes in different colors, such as yellow, white, and rose gold. It is essential to mention that white and rose gold are mixed with other metals to make them sturdy. On the other hand, creating yellow gold means preserving the natural color of the metal. While the difference between 18k gold and 14k gold is subtle in appearance, the truth is that 18k gold has a much more vibrant color. Which one do you like the most?
Choosing metals according to the colors you like is important. As we mentioned, it’s all about what you prefer. If you want a shinier and more pure color, 18k gold might be best for you. Purer gold also with warm skin tones. It also matches very well with various gemstones in different hues.
Moreover, if you have sensitive skin, consider buying 18k gold jewelry. It might suit you best and more importantly, it will be gentler on your skin.
Value
It is clear that 14k gold is not as valuable as 18k gold. If you want something more valuable, you definitely need 18k gold jewelry. Yes, 14k gold is more affordable, but many things can affect the price of jewelry made in this karat.
For instance, if you’re buying an engagement ring and you choose a large round diamond with 14k gold, it’ll cost you more than an engagement ring with a small stone in 18k gold. As you can see, it's all very subjective.
What are the advantages of 18k gold?
We’re not going to lie to you. While we firmly believe 18k gold is better, it has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look into both of them.
Advantages
18k gold is a popular jewelry choice because it balances durability, affordability, and purity perfectly. It has many more benefits. Why? First, it has a rich yellow color, mostly associated with luxury and elegance. Plus, it has a very high luster. This means that it reflects light well and gives off a sparkling appearance.
Additionally, we have its durability. Compared to 14k gold, it may be less durable, but it is more durable than 24k gold since the latter one is too soft to be worn on a daily basis. Yes, you can sometimes wear it as everyday jewelry, but this involves taking good care of it in order to avoid scratching or damaging it.
On the other hand, 18k gold is generally hypoallergenic. This means it is less likely to cause allergic reactions than lower-karat golds. This is because the alloy metals in 18k gold are less likely to react with the skin.
Another advantage of 18k gold is its versatility. It can be used to create various jewelry styles that suit anyone, from classic to contemporary. It’s also a good choice for jewelry that will be set with gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.
Ultimately, and as we mentioned before, one of the biggest benefits people look for in 18k gold is the investment value. It holds its value over time.
How should you take care of your 18k gold jewelry?
If you’ve chosen this fantastic jewelry, keep in mind that you must take good care of it. That’s why we’ll give you some tips below:
Store your jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from scratches.
Clean it regularly with a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a jewelry cleaning solution specifically designed for gold.
Avoid wearing your jewelry while showering or swimming.
Have it inspected and cleaned professionally from time to time.
What is your favorite piece of jewelry? Let us know!
Remember, you can always buy the best 18k gold jewelry at Ale Yu!