Carat vs Karat Explained — Don’t Get Tricked!

Carat and Karat are both commonly used terms in the world of jewelry. Many people find it challenging to distinguish between the two due to their similar appearance and pronunciation. However, they mean completely different things; Carat refers to diamonds, while Karat refers to gold. To clear up this confusion, keep reading this blog, where we will explain their definitions, key differences, and why understanding them matters when buying jewelry.

What is Carat?

Carat is the unit used to measure the weight of diamonds and other gemstones. One carat equals 200 milligrams, which is about the same as a small raisin. In general, a higher carat means a larger and more valuable diamond. However, size also depends on how the diamond is cut, so two diamonds with the same carat weight can still look different. Carat plays an important role in a diamond’s value and appearance, but other factors like cut, clarity, and color also affect how sparkly and beautiful it looks.

What is Karat?

Karat is the unit used to measure the purity of gold. Pure gold is 24 karats, or 100% gold, but it’s soft and can easily scratch or bend. To make it more durable, gold is often mixed with other metals like copper or silver. This creates different types of gold such as 24K, 22K, 18K, and 14K. As the number decreases, the gold content goes down; so 24K is the purest, while 14K contains the least amount of pure gold. Higher karat gold has a richer color but is softer, while lower karat gold is stronger and better suited for everyday jewellery.

Carat Vs Karat: What's The Difference

Carat (ct):

Carat is a unit used to measure the weight of gemstones, including diamonds and colored stones.
It applies specifically to diamonds and other gemstones, not metals.
The carat weight of a stone influences both its size and overall value. Larger carat weights are generally rarer and more expensive.
Example: A weighs 200 milligrams and is a common reference point in jewelry.

Karat (k or kt):

Karat is a measure of the purity of gold, indicating how much pure gold is present in a piece of jewelry.
It applies only to gold, not gemstones.
The karat level affects the color, durability, and value of gold. Higher karats mean more gold content but softer metal, while lower karats mean more alloys for strength.
Example: An 18k gold ring contains 75% pure gold and 25% other metals like copper or silver. It applies only to gold, not gemstones.

Why Does It Matter While Buying Jewellery?

If you’re looking at a diamond engagement ring, you might see something like a “1-carat diamond set in 18K gold”. Both terms are used together often, but they describe completely different aspects of the piece. Confusing carat with karat can lead to buying something you didn’t intend. You might focus on the gold’s karat and overlook the diamond’s carat, or vice versa. Understanding both helps you ask the right questions, compare options confidently, and make a better-informed decision, whether you’re investing in a diamond engagement ring, a delicate solitaire pendant, or a wedding band.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 1 carat mean?

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1 carat equals 0.2 grams and is used to describe the weight of a diamond or gemstone.

What does 24 karat gold mean?

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24K gold is 100% pure gold. Lower karats (like 18K or 14K) mean the gold is mixed with other metals for strength.

Where Does the Term Carat Come From?

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The term ‘carat’ actually comes from a Greek word, "kerátion" meaning carob seed. In ancient times, the gem traders used to balance gemstones against the carob seed eventually led to the carat being adopted as a standardized unit of weight in the modern gemstone industry.