This site has limited support for your browser. We recommend switching to Edge, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.

SCHEUDLE AN APPOINTMENT

We're making some exciting updates! Some areas of our site may be under construction, we are adding new designs, features, and fresh products daily. Check back often or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!

Understanding "Carat" vs. "Karat": A Clear Distinction

By Aram Susong

The terms "carat" and "karat" are often confused due to their similar pronunciation, but they have entirely different meanings and uses in the jewelry industry. Here’s a clear explanation of each term:

Carat (ct)

  • Definition: Carat is a unit of measurement used to express the weight of gemstones, particularly diamonds and other precious stones.
  • Measurement: One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, or 0.007 ounces.
  • Significance: The carat weight of a gemstone significantly impacts its value. Larger gemstones with higher carat weights are generally more valuable, assuming other qualities such as clarity, color, and cut are equal.

Karat (k or kt)

  • Definition: Karat is a unit of measurement used to denote the purity or fineness of gold in jewelry and other gold items.
  • Measurement: It is expressed as a fraction of 24 parts. For example, 24-karat gold is pure gold (99.9% gold), while 18-karat gold is composed of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metal alloys.
  • Significance: The karat system describes the gold content in gold jewelry, with higher karat numbers indicating a higher percentage of pure gold. For instance, 14-karat gold contains 58.3% pure gold, making it a balance between purity and durability.

Summary

  • Carat (ct): Measures the weight of gemstones. One carat equals 200 milligrams. Higher carat weight generally means higher value.
  • Karat (k or kt): Measures the purity of gold. Expressed as a fraction of 24, with higher karat numbers indicating a greater percentage of pure gold.

Understanding the difference between carat and karat is essential when dealing with jewelry and gemstones to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.