Gold Carats Explained
Journal · Jewellery Education
Gold carats explained: what 9ct, 14ct and 18ct really mean
Not all gold is created equal. If you have ever seen "9ct" or "18ct" stamped on a piece of jewellery and wondered what it actually means, here is your answer.
What does ct mean in gold?
ct stands for carat — a measure of how pure the gold is. 24ct is pure gold at 100%, but it is also very soft, which makes it impractical for everyday jewellery. So gold is alloyed (mixed with other metals) to make it stronger and more wearable.
9ct, 14ct and 18ct: how they compare
| Carat | Gold purity | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 9ct Glasaje | 37.5% pure gold | Strong, durable, ideal for everyday wear. The most affordable solid gold option in Australia. |
| 14ct | 58.5% pure gold | A little more gold, a richer glow, while still strong enough for everyday use. |
| 18ct | 75% pure gold | Richer colour, more luxurious. Best for special pieces or heirlooms. Slightly softer. |
| 24ct | 100% pure gold | Beautiful but very soft. Rarely used for fine jewellery. More common in bullion or cultural pieces. |
Does more carats mean better gold?
Not necessarily. 9ct and 14ct are stronger and better suited to everyday life. 18ct is the choice when you want a richer gold colour and are happy to take a little more care. 24ct is beautiful, but too soft for daily wear.
The right carat depends entirely on how you plan to wear the piece.
What hallmark stamps mean
In Australia, solid gold jewellery is stamped with its carat mark: 375 for 9ct (37.5%), 585 for 14ct, and 750 for 18ct. These numbers appear on the clasp, inside a ring band, or on a small tab. If a piece has no hallmark, it may be gold-plated rather than solid gold.
What Glasaje uses
All Glasaje jewellery is crafted in solid 9ct gold — chosen for its balance of strength, beauty, and value. It is real, lasting gold you can wear every day without worry, made in Melbourne using recycled gold and backed by our 12-month warranty.
Frequently asked questions about gold carats
What does 9ct gold mean?
9ct gold means the piece contains 37.5% pure gold, with the remaining 62.5% made up of other metals (typically silver, copper or zinc) to increase strength and durability. It is the most common solid gold alloy used in Australian jewellery.
What does 18ct gold mean?
18ct gold contains 75% pure gold. It has a richer, deeper yellow colour than 9ct and is softer, making it better suited to special-occasion pieces than everyday wear.
Is 9ct gold real gold?
Yes. 9ct gold is real, solid gold. It contains 37.5% pure gold throughout — not a coating or plating. It will not tarnish, fade, or chip.
What is the difference between 9ct and 18ct gold?
9ct contains 37.5% pure gold and is harder and more durable. 18ct contains 75% pure gold and has a richer colour but is softer. For everyday jewellery, 9ct is the more practical choice. For heirlooms or special-occasion pieces, 18ct is often preferred.
How do I know if my gold is real?
Look for a hallmark stamp: 375 (9ct), 585 (14ct), or 750 (18ct). These are stamped on clasps, inside ring bands, or on a small tag attached to the piece. Solid gold will also not leave green marks on skin — that is a sign of plated or base metal jewellery.
