Karat vs Carat – What's The Difference?

Are You A Jewelry Enthusiast? Clear Your Misunderstandings Around Carat Vs. Karat Right Now!

While shopping for gold or diamond Jewelry, "carat" and "karat" are two terms we often encounter, leaving us confused. That's because these terms are often used interchangeably in similar contexts, ie, units of measure, whereas, in some cases, they even overlap each other.

So, what does each mean? How they differ from each other, and how? This comprehensive post answers all your questions. Here, we'll break down each term for you, explaining their meaning and usage. Just stay tuned with us.

Is There Any Difference Between Karat and Carat Anyway?

For all the gem enthusiasts and Jewelry buyers, the terms "karat" and "carat" can bring a lot of confusion. Though they sound similar, in fact, sound like a vegetable carrot, these two terms have different meanings and usage in the world of Jewelry. In this article, we'll highlight significant points of differences between Carat and Karat so that you become a more informed Jewelry buyer.

What Do You Mean By Carat?

If you are a gemstone Jewelry lover then "Carat" is a term you would often see coming in your ways. Why? That's because Carat is a globally recognized and standardized unit of measure to weigh gemstones like diamonds, pearls, etc. Note this: One Carat is equal to 0.20 grams or 200 milligrams, referring to the physical weight of a particular stone.

The Role of Carat In Diamonds Explained -

A higher carat number gradually contributes to the value of diamonds and other crystals, making them more valuable and prized. The larger the Carat, the higher the price, so you must prioritize and choose a diamond that fits your budget. For example, if you want a higher carat, you're definitely looking for a diamond with a higher color and clarity traits. As per studies, the most popular engagement ring size is 1.7 carats.

Carat is one of the members of the 4Cs of diamond quality, cut, color, and clarity, telling us a diamond's overall value and authenticity. However, it is important to indicate that the term carat refers to the weight of a diamond, not size; in fact, its size is determined in millimeters. Many people think a higher carat number showcases a larger diamond, but that's not true. Today, gemologists use advanced scales to assess the exact accuracy and measurements, making Carat a crucial factor in highlighting a diamond's weight and overall value.

What Do You Mean By Karat?

After knowing about the meaning and significance of the Carat in the Jewelry world, the next term we will discuss here is "Karat." So what it is, let's find out:

While buying gold Jewelry or watching any gold Jewelry advertisement on TV, you must have noticed these karat indicators like 14 karat gold or 22 karat gold stamped on it. Yes, you got it right! Karat, starting with a "K," is a standardized measuring unit that helps us figure out the purity, genuineness and authenticity of gold. But how did this term come into the scenario?

The Role of Karat In Gold Explained -

See, if you often buy gold, you may be aware of the fact that pure gold is a very soft metal and can be molted easily without heating. So, it becomes quite troublesome to make Jewelry out of it. And that's why, it is often mixed with other metals or gold alloys like copper, nickel, iron, zinc, aluminum and silver, etc, to create wedding rings or other accessories. The amount of alloys in gold Jewelry is typically measured using Karat units. The more metals are blended in with gold, the lower the worth of Karat is.

Thereby, you would notice differences in hues and luster in a 14 K gold ring and an 18 K gold ring because higher karat gold has a richer yellow color. Besides this, the amount of karat also influences the overall durability of your gold Jewelry. Since pure gold is relatively soft and not an ideal choice for everyday wear, that's why more people go for lower karats, i.e., higher gold alloys, to ensure their capability to withstand everyday breakages. This is why a 14K gold ring is more durable and preferred than an 18 K gold ring.

You may be surprised, but even 24-karat gold is not a 100% pure variety of gold but 99.99% pure. It is the top degree of karat for gold as it comprises no other metals.

A Brief Look At The History of Carat Vs Karat -

The historical significance of the words "Carat" and "Karat" takes us back to early ancient times when they were used by Greek people and associated with the carob beans as a unit of measurement.

Origin of Carat -

The concept of weighing diamonds and other gems brought into light when ancient Greek people used to have carob seeds as a unit of weight for measuring gemstones because they were light and weighed about the same as the smallest gems.

In fact, the word "carat" hails from an early Greek word for "carob seed." A stone with the similar weight as a carob seed was tretaed to weigh one Carat. These pods eventually developed into what we know as "carat," a standardized weight measurement unit.

Origin of Karat -

When it comes to the word "karat", it also came from an old Greek word, "keration", describing the carob bead pods being used as a measure of gold purity. This karat system evolved with time from using seeds into an authentic unit of weight, reflecting gold's durability, fineness, and brilliance.

Karat vs Carat: What to Consider When Shopping for Gold or Diamonds?

Now that you know the meaning, significance, and usage of Karat and Carat, grab a few tips here that will help you understand their specific reference in a Jewelry description. Take a look:

When it comes to justifying the purity of gold Jewelry, it will always be a "karat" with a "K," like 14K gold, 22K Gold, etc. Whereas, in the case of gemstone Jewelry, it will be a "carat" with a "C," like a "1-carat diamond ring" etc.
Remember, the word karat is only meant for describing gold Jewelry; other metals like silver or platinum come with the term "fineness" to determine the amount of alloy in their Jewelry.
Sometimes, you may notice the word "ctw" in most Jewelry product descriptions. Well, it denotes "Carat Total Weight" and tells us the combined weight of all the stones in a piece of Jewelry. For example, a gemstone ring studded with diamonds or diamond cluster earrings.

The Bottom Line

While these terms sound similar, and sometimes in Jewelry-related contexts, they are used interchangeably but have different meanings. Karat indicates the purity of gold, while Carat denotes gemstone weight. Knowing these terms is essential to understand jewelry descriptions in a better way and making informed decisions.

Sagacia Jewelry lets you find an impeccable and the most authentic range of gemstone Jewelry embedded within pure 925 sterling silver and precious gems at the best rates. We are a trusted and reputed, US-based sterling silver Jewelry brand dealing in trendy and high-quality Jewelry pieces in a vast range of designs, cuts, colors, and sizes. Visit us right now and grab a piece that resonates with you.

So, next time when you shop for gold earrings or a diamond-studded bracelet, remember to look for their Karat and carat specifications. The knowledge of these terms is an indication of being an aware and educated Jewelry buyer.