When it comes to fine jewelry, the purity of the gold used is a crucial factor in determining its value and quality. One term you may often encounter is "750 gold." This designation is synonymous with 18 karat (18K) gold, making it a globally recognized standard for premium jewelry.
While 750 gold and 18K gold are essentially the same, there are regional variations in how the purity of gold is expressed. In Europe and Asia, grading is typically done using parts per one thousand (PPM). This system is more precise and allows for finer distinctions in gold purity. For example, 750 gold equates to 750 parts per one thousand, indicating that 750 out of 1000 parts of the alloy are pure gold.
In contrast, the United States, Britain, and Latin America commonly use the karat (K) system. While still indicating the purity of gold, the karat system is less precise. 18K gold, for instance, signifies that 18 parts out of 24 parts of the alloy are pure gold.
It's important to note that neither 750 gold nor 18K gold is pure gold. In both cases, the gold is alloyed with other metals, such as silver or copper, to enhance its durability, color, and other properties. The alloying process ensures that the jewelry is more resistant to scratches, dents, and other forms of wear and tear.