Karats measure purity
Pure gold is 24 karats. A lower karat means the gold is mixed with other metals, such as silver or copper, to make it harder and change its colour.
| Karat | Gold content | Also marked as | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 99.9% | 999 or 999.9 | Bars, coins, saving |
| 22K | 91.6% | 916 | Jewellery across the Gulf and South Asia |
| 21K | 87.5% | 875 | Traditional Arabic jewellery |
| 18K | 75% | 750 | Diamond and modern jewellery |
| 14K | 58.5% | 585 | Everyday jewellery |
Why the price per gram is different
You pay for the gold inside. One gram of 22K contains 0.916 g of pure gold, so its price per gram is about 91.6% of the 24K price. Today Lumos's 24K buy price is AED 496.26 per gram; see every karat on our live prices page.
Which is best for saving?
24K. It is the purest, it is what bars and coins are made of, and it is the easiest to sell back at the full gold value. Jewellery adds making charges that you do not get back when you sell.
Which is best for jewellery?
22K and 21K are popular in the UAE because they keep a rich yellow colour while being hard enough to wear every day. 18K is stronger again and is used for pieces set with stones.
Questions
Is 24K gold too soft for jewellery?
It is soft and scratches easily, which is why most jewellery is 22K, 21K or 18K. For saving it does not matter, because bars and coins are not worn.
How do I know what karat my gold is?
Look for the hallmark stamped on the piece: 999, 916, 875 or 750. Reputable shops in the UAE also give a certificate or a receipt showing the karat and weight.
What karat does Lumos sell?
24K gold (999.9) and 999 fine silver only.
General information, not financial advice. Prices change all the time; Lumos prices shown are live.