Hallmark & purity
18K vs 22K Gold: Which Is Better?
By Narayan Jewellers, Lucknow · Published · Updated
Quick answer: 22K gold is 91.6% pure and softer, with a richer yellow colour; 18K gold is 75% pure and harder, which makes it better for stone-studded and daily-wear jewellery. Neither is "better" for everyone: choose 22K for traditional plain gold, and 18K when you want durability, detailed designs or a lower price per gram.
18K vs 22K at a glance
| 22K gold | 18K gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Gold content | 91.6% (916) | 75.0% (750) |
| Hardness | Softer, can bend or scratch more easily | Harder, holds shape and settings better |
| Colour | Deeper, richer yellow | Slightly lighter yellow |
| Best for | Traditional plain jewellery, coins | Stone-studded, diamond and everyday jewellery |
| Today's rate (Lucknow, per gram) | ₹13,292.20 | ₹10,875.40 |
Why purity changes hardness
Pure (24K) gold is very soft. To make jewellery that keeps its shape, other metals such as copper and silver are alloyed with it. 22K has a little alloy; 18K has more. The extra alloy in 18K is what gives it strength - which is why fine settings for stones and thin designs are usually made in 18K.
How to choose
- Daily wear and detailed designs: 18K resists wear and keeps intricate work sharp.
- Weddings and traditional plain gold: 22K is the classic choice for its colour.
- Budget per gram: 18K has a lower rate per gram because it contains less gold, but you are also buying less gold for your money.
- Savings and resale thinking: value is linked to the gold content, so ask the jeweller how exchange and buy-back are calculated for each purity.
Check the purity on the piece
Look for the BIS mark with the purity written as 22K916 or 18K750 and a 6-character HUID. Learn how to verify it in our HUID guide.
Browse 18K and 22K jewellery
Every product page lists its purity, weight and live price breakup. Start with gold bangles, earrings, mangalsutra or chains.
Frequently asked questions
Is 18K gold real gold?
Yes. 18K gold is 75% pure gold alloyed with other metals, and BIS-hallmarked 18K jewellery is marked 750.
Which is better for daily wear, 18K or 22K?
18K is harder, so it resists bending and scratches better, which suits daily wear.
Why is 22K more expensive per gram?
It contains more pure gold (91.6% against 75%), and the gold rate is quoted per purity.
Sources and official resources
| Source | Use it for |
|---|---|
| Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) | Hallmarking and purity grades (carat and fineness) |
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