Difference Between 22K and 24K Gold: Complete Comparison

Difference Between 22K and 24K Gold: Complete Comparison

22K and 24K are the two most common gold purities discussed in India – 24K is pure gold, while 22K is gold alloyed with other metals for strength. Understanding the difference helps you make informed decisions whether buying, gifting or selling gold.

This guide compares purity, durability, colour, pricing and which is better suited for jewellery versus investment.

At a Glance

Purity: The Core Difference

24K gold is 99.9% pure – essentially as pure as gold can be refined. 22K gold is 91.6% pure, with the remaining 8.4% made up of alloying metals (typically copper, silver or zinc).The BIS hallmark codes reflect this: 24K carries the 999 mark; 22K carries the 916 mark.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Why Is 22K Used for Jewellery Instead of 24K?

Pure 24K gold is very soft – it bends and scratches easily, making it impractical for daily-wear jewellery like rings and bangles that endure friction and impact. Alloying gold with copper, silver or zinc (creating 22K) significantly increases hardness and durability while retaining a rich gold colour.This is why most traditional Indian jewellery – necklaces, bangles, earrings – is crafted in 22K gold, while 24K is reserved for coins, bars and certain ceremonial pieces.

Which Is Better for Resale?

24K gold technically has a higher per-gram resale rate (₹15,250 vs ₹13,965) since it has zero alloy content. However, this does not mean 24K jewellery is ‘better’ – it simply reflects purity.For a 10g piece: 24K = ₹1,52,500 vs 22K = ₹1,39,690. The ₹12,810 difference reflects the 8.4% non-gold content in 22K, not any quality judgment. Both are valued fairly at their true purity through XRF testing.

How to Tell Which Purity You Have

Check the BIS hallmark: look for 999 (24K) or 916 (22K) stamped on the piece

XRF testing at a gold buyer gives the exact reading in 30–60 seconds, free at Attica Gold

Visual colour alone is unreliable – always confirm with hallmark or XRF

Why Choose Attica Gold Company

Attica Gold Company is ISO 9001:2015 certified with 200+ branches across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Pondicherry. Your wait is over.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price difference between 22K and 24K gold today?

24K is ₹15,250/g; 22K is ₹13,965/g – a difference of ₹1,285 per gram, reflecting 24K’s higher purity.

Is 24K gold better than 22K gold?

Neither is “better” – they serve different purposes. 24K is purer and better for investment (coins, bars). 22K is more durable and better suited for daily-wear jewellery.

Can jewellery be made from 24K gold?

Rarely, because 24K is too soft for jewellery that needs durability. Some ceremonial or investment-grade pieces use 24K, but most jewellery is 22K or lower.

How much more do I get selling 24K gold vs 22K?

For the same weight, 24K pays the full ₹15,250/g rate, while 22K pays ₹13,965/g (91.6% of the 24K rate). A 10g piece: 24K = ₹1,52,500, 22K = ₹1,39,690.

Is 22K gold considered “real” gold?

Yes. 22K (91.6% pure) is genuine, high-purity gold – it is simply alloyed with other metals for strength. Most fine jewellery worldwide uses 18K–22K, not 24K.

How can I check if my jewellery is 22K or 24K?

Check the BIS hallmark (916 = 22K, 999 = 24K) or get a free XRF test at any Attica Gold branch for an exact reading.

Does Attica Gold buy both 22K and 24K gold?

Yes. Attica Gold buys gold of any purity – 24K, 22K, 18K, 14K – at the correct IBJA-based rate for the tested purity.