22K or 24K gold: which should you buy?
, 1 min read
22K and 24K are both real gold. The number simply tells you how pure the gold is, and each suits a different purpose.
What the numbers mean
- 24K is 99.9% pure gold, usually stamped 999.
- 22K is 91.6% pure gold, mixed with a little silver or copper for strength, and stamped 916.
For the full picture of karats, fineness and stamps, read 916 or 999? Gold purity explained.
Why jewellery is usually 22K, not 24K
Pure 24K gold is very soft. It bends and scratches easily, so a bangle or chain made of it would lose its shape with everyday wear.
22K is stronger, so it holds its shape in bangles, chains and earrings while keeping the rich colour of high-purity gold. That is why most Indian gold jewellery is made in 22K. It is the standard choice for jewellery you wear, not a lesser one.
Should I buy 22K or 24K?
Neither is better; they are made for different purposes.
- 22K for jewellery you wear: bangles, chains and sets.
- 24K for gold bars and coins, bought as savings rather than to wear. Investment-grade bars that meet IRAS's criteria are also exempt from GST, which jewellery is not.
Not sure what you are buying?
Look for the purity stamp: 916 for 22K, 999 for 24K. Any honest shop will show it to you, and write the purity and weight on your receipt, without hesitation.
Visit us
Come and compare 22K jewellery and 24K bars in person at 142 Dunlop Street, Little India. Walk-ins welcome: see our hours, and follow the daily gold rate.