18ct gold has twice as much gold as 9ct. So it must be twice as good... right?
Not quite. When it comes to the jewellery you wear every single day, the answer is far more surprising.
Read to the very end for the one number that tells you exactly which gold you're wearing.
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What "carat" actually means
Gold purity is measured out of 24.
• 24ct = pure gold
• 18ct = 18 parts out of 24, or 75% gold
• 9ct = 9 parts out of 24, or 37.5% gold
The rest is a mix of other metals, such as copper and silver, called an alloy. And that alloy is the secret to everything.
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The twist: pure gold is soft
Pure gold is so soft you could mark it with a fingernail. Not ideal for a ring you wear while washing up.
💪 Adding other metals makes gold harder. So 9ct, with more alloy, is generally tougher and more resistant to scratches and dents than 18ct.
That's one reason 9ct has been a British favourite for generations, and why so many vintage signet rings, like this 1930s beauty, have survived decades of daily wear.
Vintage 9ct Yellow Gold Signet Chunky Ring | Size V — £410
Designer Inspired Onyx Clover Shaped 9ct Yellow Gold Chain Drop Earrings — £330
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So why choose 18ct?
✨ Colour. 18ct yellow gold has a richer, deeper, buttery glow. Put 9ct and 18ct side by side and the difference is clear.
🌿 Sensitive skin. With less alloy, 18ct is often a better choice for people who react to some metals.
💎 Value. More gold means more precious metal in the piece, which is why 18ct costs more.
Floral Inspired Diamond 18ct Yellow and White Gold Ring | Size N — £2,495
Marquise Cut Blue Topaz & Diamond 18ct White Gold Cocktail Ring | Size M — £4,250
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Which should you choose?
🟡 Choose 9ct for everyday pieces you'll wear non-stop, for a softer, paler gold tone, or for a smaller budget.
🟡 Choose 18ct for that rich colour, for sensitive skin, or for a special piece you want to feel truly luxurious.
Can't find exactly what you want in the right carat? Our bespoke service can make it for you.
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9ct vs 18ct FAQs
Is 9ct gold real gold?
Yes. It's 37.5% pure gold mixed with other metals, and in the UK it's hallmarked as gold.
How do I keep 9ct gold shining?
Easily. A quick clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth keeps it glowing for years.
Is 18ct gold better for engagement rings?
Both work well. 18ct offers richer colour, while 9ct offers extra toughness at a lower price.
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What our customers say
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Shona Brammeld Hepburn
"Just picked up my new ring it was exactly what I wanted and very reasonably priced, especially when it was made to order. Already thinking about my next ring from here."
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So, what's the one number to look for?
375 or 750.
🔍 Look inside your ring. If you see 375, it's 9ct (37.5% gold). If you see 750, it's 18ct (75% gold). It's the gold content in parts per thousand, stamped right there in the hallmark.
Now you'll never have to guess again.
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Two golds, both gorgeous
There's no "better" gold, only the right gold for how you live. Tough and everyday, or rich and luxurious, both have their place in your jewellery box.
Pop into our Kirkcaldy boutique to see the difference side by side, or read how much should you actually spend on an engagement ring?
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Visit or contact Eloise Jewellery
📍 Eloise Jewellery
156 High Street
Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland, KY1 1NQ
✉️ eloisejewellery@hotmail.co.uk
🕒 Monday–Saturday: 9:30am–5:30pm