In short, 24k gold is a pure form of gold. What this means is that it has no alloys added to it. Because it has no added alloys, 24k gold has a bright yellow gold color that is rare in the United States.
24k gold is more commonly seen in China than in the U.S. So, if you’re thinking of purchasing or if you want more information about this precious metal, continue reading and brush up on your knowledge of 24k gold.
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What Does 24k Gold Mean?
24k gold is the purest gold that exists, so it has no added alloys, meaning no zinc, copper, iron, nickel, or silver is added to it.
You might wonder why anyone would add alloys to gold. Adding alloys is intended to make a very pliable metal like gold more durable, helping it to keep its intended shape longer.
How Pure is 24k Gold?
Unlike 10k gold or even 14k gold, which are less pure gold and more of some other type of alloy, 24k gold is 100% pure gold, so it is the purest gold available.
Therefore, 24k is the highest karat rating gold can possess. Because of its 100% purity, 24k gold pieces do not come in rose or white gold.
24k gold does not come in rose or white gold because additional alloys are added during the piece’s creation to get either color.
When mixed with other alloys, pure gold will take on the tone of the other alloys. This process, in turn, reduces its purity.
For example, pure gold is combined with copper to create rose gold. Likewise, to get white gold, pure gold must be combined with nickel and zinc.
Uses of 24k Gold
24k gold has various uses, from jewelry to investments to electronic or medical devices. However, there are a few things to note regarding the uses of 24k gold.
Below is a more detailed example of 24k gold’s uses and the essential aspects of each use for your reference.
Jewelry
Despite its exceedingly malleable nature, 24k gold can still be used in jewelry; however, this is not an ideal use for it. Its purity means it is too soft to withstand the harsh treatment everyday jewelry endures.
Keep in mind that if you want to use it for jewelry, it’s better suited for jewelry that you will wear infrequently or purely ornamental pieces.
Investments
Because of its purity, another and possibly better use for 24k gold is as an investment, such as 24k gold bars, bullions, gold coins, wedding bands, wedding rings, engagement rings, and other jewelry.
In addition, specific IRAs exist so that you can use gold as an asset instead of the typical paper holdings. Furthermore, with 24k gold being the highest purity of gold, it is the most highly valued gold available to use as an asset.
Electronics and Medical Devices
Additionally, along with 22k gold, 24k gold is known to be used in consumer electronics and medical devices because it is an excellent conductor and tends to retain its conductivity longer than other metals.
Furthermore, 24k gold’s usage inside electronic and medical devices means its easily distorted form is not an issue.
Pros and Cons
Like with anything you purchase, 24k gold has pros and cons. So, before you buy 24k gold, it’s essential to know what you can expect from it.
Below is a quick breakdown of 24k gold’s most critical pros and cons for your reference.
Pros
- 24k gold makes an excellent investment.
- Because of its purity, it’s one of the most highly valued types of gold you can possess.
Cons
- Because of its purity, 24k gold is softer than 18k or 14k gold and will lose its shape with regular use or handling.
18k vs. 24k: Which Gold Is Better?
If you’re wondering whether 18k or 24k gold is better, you must first know your intended use for the gold.
24k gold is the purest form of gold you can purchase, so it’s 100% gold content, while 18k gold is the second purest gold available, so it’s 75% gold.
So if you want gold jewelry you intend to wear regularly, 18k gold is a better karat rating. Because it is only 75% gold, it will have some alloy added to it to make it more durable and still possess a beautiful vibrant yellow tone that the 24k gold is known for having.
However, if you’re looking for something to invest for you and your family’s future, such as a gold IRA account, 24k gold is better because it is more highly valued and will always be the most highly valued karat for gold.
Is 24k Gold Any Good?
Of course, like any other type of precious metal, 24k gold has excellent value. Although it might not be best for everyday jewelry, it makes a perfect investment opportunity and is also ideal for jewelry intended to be used only for special occasions.
Additionally, because of its brilliant yellow coloring, 24k gold looks incredible in purely decorative pieces, which is why it is beloved in China and other Asian countries.
So, if you’re looking for another way to diversify your retirement plan or want to purchase a truly unique piece of jewelry, 24k gold won’t let you down.
FAQ’s
After reading this article, you might have additional questions about 24k gold or require further clarification.
If so, below are a few common questions you will find beneficial.
