The difference between 14K and 18K gold? Karat differences in jewelry explained
14K vs. 18K Gold Plating: What's the Difference—and Why We Now Offer 14-Carat Gold Jewelry
When it comes to gold-plated jewelry, terms like 14K and 18K gold plating are ubiquitous. But what exactly do they mean – and what difference do they make in terms of aesthetics, quality, and longevity?
In this article, we explain what these terms mean, how the two gold variants differ, and why – at the request of many customers – we have expanded our selection to include high-quality 14-karat gold-plated jewelry.
What does 14K and 18K gold-plated actually mean?
The carat (K) specification describes the proportion of pure gold in a gold alloy:
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18K gold consists of 75% pure gold (18 out of 24 parts).
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14K gold contains 58.3% pure gold (14 out of 24 parts).
Gold-plated jewelry is not solid gold, but rather jewelry made of a metal (e.g., stainless steel or silver) covered with a thin layer (alloy) of real gold. The karat number therefore refers to the purity of the gold layer—not the entire piece.
Aesthetics & Gold Color: Why We Love 14K Gold Jewelry
A key difference between 14-karat and 18-karat gold-plated jewelry lies in the color of the gold:
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18K gold appears richer and more intense – it has a warm, yellow sheen that is very elegant, but also striking.
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14K gold has a subtle, slightly cooler gold color, which is often perceived as more modern or natural. It appears less yellow, adapts better to many people's skin tone, and can be combined in a variety of ways.
Customers who prefer an understated, elegant look are increasingly choosing 14-karat gold-plated jewelry, as it appears less artificial or "yellowish" than 18-karat.
Durability & Quality: Comparing 14K and 18K Gold Plating
For gold-plated jewelry, both the carat number and the thickness of the gold coating (e.g., in microns or in "gold vermeil") play an important role in the quality and durability of gold-plated jewelry. Both 14-karat and 18-karat gold-plated jewelry stand for high-quality workmanship and genuine gold finishing:
Hardness & Durability:
Whether 14-karat or 18-karat gold-plated – thanks to our high-quality workmanship and modern ion plating, both versions impress with exceptional durability and longevity. Thanks to the high-quality ion plating, which we use at PURELEI for all our gold-plated jewelry, both gold versions are optimally protected against scratches and abrasion – ideal for jewelry that accompanies you every day.
Tarnish Protection & Durability Care:
Both 14K and 18K gold-plated jewelry are reliably protected against oxidation, easy to clean, and absolutely suitable for everyday wear.
Quality that suits you:
Whether you prefer the bright, modern look of 14K gold or love the warm, luxurious shimmer of 18K yellow gold – both versions meet the highest standards of quality and design. The decision ultimately depends entirely on your style.
For whom is 14K gold-plated jewelry the right choice?
14K or 18K – which suits you? If you are looking for jewelry that…
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has a soft, modern gold color,
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is very robust and scratch-resistant,
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combines easily with other pieces of jewelry, such as B. wedding rings,
...then 14K gold-plated jewelry is an excellent choice.
New at PURELEI: Soft elegance in 14K gold
By popular request from our community, we have expanded our range to include numerous pieces of jewelry with 14K gold plating – from delicate necklaces and elegant earrings to timeless bracelets. The jewelry in the PURELEI Advent Calendar 2025 will also shine in 14K gold.Our 14K gold-plated designs combine aesthetic restraint with long-lasting quality – perfect for anyone who desires understated elegance with everyday practicality.
Tip: You can easily tell from the color selection on our site whether your favorites are available in the lighter 14K gold tone: Gold is finished with 18-karat gold, Light gold is finished with 14-karat gold.
14-karat gold-plated jewelry – the stylish middle ground
While 18-karat gold-plated jewelry scores with its luxurious shine, 14-karat gold-plated jewelry impresses with its understated shine, versatility, and durability. Especially in today's fashion world, where understatement is in demand, many style-conscious jewelry lovers opt for 14K gold – and we are pleased to fulfill this desire with new collections, the 2025 Advent Calendar, and bestsellers that shine anew in a lighter shade.
Can I combine both gold tones?
If you're wondering whether your 18-karat PURELEI jewelry will match your new jewelry in the lighter 14-karat gold tone, we can say unequivocally: Yes! The slightly cooler, natural gold tone of our 14-karat gold-plated jewelry looks very harmonious next to the warm shine of 18-karat gold – without clashing with the style. In short: Mix & Match. Matching is absolutely possible.
Plus: Precisely because the 14K gold tone is subtle and unobtrusive, it also pairs perfectly with real gold jewelry—such as wedding rings or heirlooms. This allows you to easily integrate your PURELEI pieces into existing looks without sacrificing uniformity.
Want to discover the new 14K jewelry?
Then visit our shop now and find your new favorite piece—stylish, long-lasting, and entirely to your taste.