Understanding Gold Carats: From 9ct to 24ct, Made Simple

Not all gold is created equal. If you’ve ever looked at a piece of jewellery and seen “9ct” or “18ct” stamped on it, you might’ve wondered — what does that actually mean? And what’s the difference between 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, and 24ct?

Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide to understanding gold carats in Australia — so you can shop and wear your jewellery with confidence.

What Does “ct” Mean?

ct stands for carat, a measure of how pure the gold is. 24ct is pure gold — 100% — but it’s also very soft, which makes it less practical for everyday jewellery. So gold is often alloyed (mixed) with other metals to make it stronger and more wearable.

Here’s how the most common carats compare:

• 9ct gold = 37.5% pure gold
  Strong, durable, and perfect for daily wear. Also the most affordable solid gold option.


• 14ct gold = 58.5% pure gold
  A little more gold, a little more glow — while still being strong enough for everyday use.


• 18ct gold = 75% pure gold
  Richer in colour, more luxurious, and often used for special pieces or heirlooms. Slightly softer, so best for occasional wear.


• 24ct gold = 100% pure gold
  Bright, soft, and rarely used for fine jewellery due to its delicate nature. More common in bullion or cultural pieces where purity is the priority.

More Gold Doesn’t Always Mean “Better”

It’s easy to assume 24ct is the “best” gold — but it really depends on how you want to wear it. 9ct and 14ct are stronger and more suited to everyday life. 18ct is perfect for when you want a richer gold colour with a bit of extra care. 24ct is beautiful, but soft — better kept as an investment or special occasion piece.

What We Use at Glasâje

All Glasâje jewellery is crafted in solid 9ct gold — chosen for its balance of strength, beauty, and affordability. It’s real, lasting gold you can wear every day without worry.

As we grow, we’ll be introducing 14ct and 18ct options too — so you can choose your gold the way you choose your style.

Whether you’re starting your gold collection or adding to it, knowing your carats helps you make smart, lasting choices.

—Glasâje