The Difference Between 9ct, 14ct and 18ct Gold

When shopping for fine jewellery, you’ll often come across terms like 9ct, 14ct and 18ct gold. These markings aren’t just decorative, they tell you something essential about the piece you’re buying. But unless you work in the industry, the difference between them might not be immediately clear.

At Walter Bull & Son, we’re here to demystify these numbers and help you choose the right gold for your lifestyle, taste and budget.

What Does ‘Carat’ Mean in Gold?

Carat (not to be confused with carat as a weight measurement for gemstones) refers to the purity of gold. Pure gold is 24 carats, meaning 100 percent gold content with no other metals added. But pure gold is soft and malleable, which means it isn’t ideal for everyday wear. To create jewellery that’s durable enough to last, gold is blended with other metals like silver, copper or palladium. This blend is what gives us 9ct, 14ct and 18ct gold.

9ct Gold: Hardwearing and Accessible

9ct gold contains 37.5 percent pure gold and 62.5 percent other metals. It’s the most durable of the three, making it an excellent choice for everyday pieces like signet rings, chains and stud earrings. It also tends to be more affordable, which makes it a popular choice for gifts or entry-level fine jewellery.

The tone of 9ct gold is often slightly paler than higher carat options due to the lower percentage of pure gold. It still offers a beautiful golden hue, and when designed with care, it wears exceptionally well.

14ct Gold: A Fine Balance

14ct gold is made up of 58.5 percent pure gold and 41.5 percent alloy metals. It offers a lovely balance between richness of colour and strength, which is why it’s commonly used for engagement rings and wedding bands in the US and Europe. At this purity, the gold retains much of its warmth and glow while still standing up to everyday wear.

If you're looking for something that feels luxurious but still practical, 14ct gold is a considered middle ground.

18ct Gold: Rich, Warm and Luxurious

18ct gold contains 75 percent pure gold, giving it that unmistakably rich, buttery colour that many people associate with traditional high-end jewellery. It’s slightly softer than 9ct and 14ct, but still suitable for most types of fine jewellery with a bit of mindful care.

This carat is often chosen for special pieces like heirloom rings, anniversary gifts, or investment items that you plan to keep for life. At Walter Bull & Son, many of our bespoke designs and antique pieces are crafted in 18ct gold.

Which Gold Should You Choose?

The right gold for you depends on how you plan to wear it. If you’re looking for something durable and affordable for daily wear, 9ct gold is a smart and stylish choice. For something with more depth of colour and a longer heritage in fine jewellery, 18ct gold offers a level of richness and prestige. And if you want the best of both worlds, 14ct gold gives you strength and beauty in equal measure.

Whatever you choose, it’s worth remembering that all gold jewellery, no matter the carat, deserves to be beautifully made and properly cared for. At Walter Bull & Son, our team is always happy to talk through your options and help you find the perfect piece, whether you're adding to your collection or starting one for the first time.