What is the difference between 18 karat and 21 karat gold?

الفرق بين عيار ١٨ وعيار ٢١

At Qimat Zawiya Al Shifa Gold and Jewelry , the best gold store in Saudi Arabia , we believe that choosing the right karat is the first step toward owning a piece of gold that combines beauty and value. Whether you're looking for everyday elegance or a long-term gold investment, knowing the difference between 18 karat and 21 karat gold will help you choose what best suits your taste and needs. Read on to discover everything you need to know, and let us guide you toward the perfect choice from our elegant collection, carefully designed to suit you.


What is 21 karat gold?

21-karat gold means that 21 parts of the 24 parts of gold are pure gold. In other words, 21-karat gold contains 87.5% pure gold. This type of gold is characterized by its darker color and strength compared to lower-karat gold. Due to its high gold content, 21-karat gold is a preferred choice for both fine and traditional jewelry.




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What is 18 karat gold?

18-karat gold means that 18 parts of the 24 parts gold are pure gold. In other words, 18-karat gold contains 75% pure gold. This type of gold contains a higher percentage of other metals, such as copper or silver, making it softer and more resistant to scratches and corrosion. Therefore, 18-karat gold is a popular choice for jewelry that is subject to daily wear, such as rings and earrings.



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What is the difference between 21 karat gold and 18 karat gold?

The main difference between 21 karat gold and 18 karat gold lies in the percentage of pure gold in each, and because of the difference in percentage, differences can appear in color, durability, and price.

1. Pure gold percentage

  • 21 karat contains more gold (87.5%), so it is considered more expensive and purer.
  • 18 karat contains 75% gold, mixed with other metals to increase hardness.

2. Luster and color

  • 21 karat is distinguished by its bright yellow color, which is popular in the Gulf markets.
  • 18 karat is slightly lighter in color, closer to Western fashion.

3. Durability

  • 21 karat is softer and may scratch more easily.
  • 18 karat is harder, so it's suitable for everyday use.

4. Price

  • 21 karat is more expensive due to its higher purity.
  • 18 karat is a great economical choice without compromising on elegance.

5. Use and preference

  • 21 karat is common in traditional rings and fine jewelry.
  • 18 karat is ideal for modern designs and practical jewelry.


Ultimately, choosing between 18-karat and 21-karat gold is a matter of balancing taste, use, and budget. Whether you prefer the classic luxury of 21-karat or the practicality and modern elegance of 18-karat, we at Qimat Zawiya Al Shifa, the best gold retailer in Riyadh, offer you the best of both.


Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better for everyday wear: 21 or 18 karat?

18 karat is preferred for everyday wear because it's harder and more scratch-resistant, while 21 karat is better for special occasions and classic designs due to its smoothness and high shine.


Is there a difference in color between 18 karat and 21 karat gold?

Yes, 21 karat gold has a deeper yellow color and a higher shine, while 18 karat gold may have a slightly bronze color depending on the alloy.


Which caliber is better in terms of investment value?

21 karat is the best investment because of its higher pure gold content, making it more easily bought and sold in the markets.


Why is 18 karat gold so commonly used in modern jewelry?

Because 18 karat is harder and can be shaped into fine details, it's ideal for modern, intricate jewelry designs.