24K vs 22K Gold: What's the Difference?

24K describes gold with no intentional alloying, corresponding to a fineness of approximately 999. 22K describes twenty-two parts gold in twenty-four, roughly 916 fineness, with the balance usually copper, silver or both.

Pure gold is soft and marks easily, which is why bullion is handled carefully and often sealed. Alloying with copper or silver increases hardness and wear resistance.

This is the main reason jewellery is commonly produced at 22K or lower while investment bars are produced at high fineness.

Both are valued on fine gold content. A 22K item contains roughly 91.6% gold by weight, so its metal value is calculated accordingly rather than on gross weight.

Fabrication, design and retail costs sit on top of metal value in finished goods, which is why jewellery rarely trades at the metal price.