Gold has been prized for its beauty and value for thousands of years, and it remains one of the most coveted precious metals in the world. While the value of gold is largely determined by its weight and purity, the measurement used to describe gold purity can vary widely depending on the region of the world. When it comes to buying and selling gold, understanding the different measurements used to describe its purity is crucial. From carats in the UK to millesimal fineness in Canada, understanding the different gold standards used around the world is crucial for both buyers and sellers of gold. In this blog post, we will explore the various gold purity standards used in different countries.
In the UK, gold is typically measured in 9, 14, 18, 22 or 24 carats. 24 carat gold is considered pure gold, meaning it contains 99.9% gold with the remaining percentage consisting of trace amounts of other metals. 22 carat gold contains 91.6% gold and is often used for high-end jewellery. 18 carat gold is 75% gold and is a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewellery. 14 carat gold contains 58.5% gold, making it a more affordable option, while 9 carat gold contains just 37.5% gold and is commonly used in everyday jewellery.
In the US, gold purity is also measured in carats, but the most common range is slightly different. 10, 14, 18, 22, and 24 carat gold are used in the US, with 10 carat gold being the minimum purity for jewellery to be legally sold as "gold" in the country. 14 carat gold is the most popular in the US, while 18 carat gold is more commonly used in high-end jewellery. 24 carat gold is also available in the US, but it is less common than in the UK.
In Europe, gold is typically measured in fineness, which represents the purity of the gold in parts per thousand. For example, 750 fineness gold is 75% pure, while 585 fineness gold is 58.5% pure. In France, gold is also measured in carats, but the range is slightly different than in the UK, with 8, 14, 18, 20, and 24 carat gold being used.
In Asia, gold purity is typically measured in carats, with 22 carat gold being the most common. However, there are also other standards used in India, such as 18 and 24 carat gold. Indian gold jewellery often features intricate designs and is highly sought after for its beauty and craftsmanship. India has its own hallmarking system that certifies the purity of gold items, known as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark.
In addition to the countries explored above, there are many more countries around the world with their own gold standards. Here are some examples:
Australia - Gold in Australia is typically measured in karats, with 9, 14, 18, and 22 karat gold being the most common. In addition, Australia also has its own hallmarking system that certifies the purity of gold items.
Canada - In Canada, gold purity is measured in millesimal fineness, which represents the number of parts per thousand of pure gold in an alloy. For example, 750 millesimal fineness gold is 75% pure, while 585 millesimal fineness gold is 58.5% pure.
Japan - In Japan, gold purity is typically measured in karats, with 18 karat gold being the most common. Japan also has its own hallmarking system that certifies the purity of gold items.
Russia - In Russia, gold purity is measured in zolotniks, with 96 zolotniks representing pure gold. For example, 585 zolotniks gold is 58.5% pure.
South Africa - Gold in South Africa is typically measured in carats, with 9, 14, 18, and 22 carat gold being the most common. In addition, South Africa also has its own hallmarking system that certifies the purity of gold items.
Switzerland - In Switzerland, gold purity is measured in fineness, with 999.9 fineness gold being the most pure. Switzerland is also home to some of the world's most renowned gold refiners and manufacturers of luxury watches and jewellery.
It's worth noting that while the same terms are used to describe gold purity internationally, the actual percentage of gold in an alloy can vary. For example, 18 carat gold in the UK is 75% gold, while 18 carat gold in the US is 75.5% gold. This can make a difference when it comes to buying and selling gold so it's important to understand the specific measurement used in the region you are dealing with.
At WeBuyVintage, whether you have gold jewellery, coins, or other items, we can provide you with a fair and accurate offer based on current market conditions. We pride ourselves on our commitment to customer satisfaction and fair business practices. Our reputation for quality service and honesty has earned us a loyal customer base and a solid reputation in the industry. We ensure that you get a fair and accurate valuation for your items.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you sell gold items. Our team of experts can provide free valuations. Get in touch with us at WeBuyVintage. We'd be delighted to hear from you.
To get started request your FREE postage pack here: WeBuyVintage | UK's Leading Antiques Buyer | Sell Your Antiques
Comments