Whether you’re sorting through old jewellery, clearing an estate, or simply curious about what your gold is worth, knowing how carats (or “ct”) work will help you get the best price.
In this guide, we’ll explain what those gold carat numbers mean, how they affect value, and what to consider when selling in the UK.
What Does “Carat” Mean in Gold?
When you hear 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, or 22ct, the “ct” stands for carat, which is a measurement of gold purity:
- Pure gold is 24 carats (24ct).
- Anything less than 24ct has been alloyed (mixed) with other metals like copper, silver, zinc, or palladium.
Why? Because pure 24ct gold is very soft. On its own, it bends and scratches easily. By mixing it with harder metals, jewellers create alloys that are more durable, easier to shape, and more suitable for everyday wear.
Carat, then, is essentially a ratio of gold to other metals. The higher the carat, the more gold content the item has.
Carat Breakdown: 9ct, 14ct, 18ct and 22ct
Here’s a simple breakdown of what each carat level actually means:
- 9ct gold
Contains 37.5% pure gold and 62.5% other metals. It’s the lowest legal standard for gold jewellery in the UK. Strong and affordable, but less “golden” in colour compared to higher carats. - 14ct gold
Contains 58.5% pure gold. More common in the US than the UK, but you will still see it occasionally. Offers a balance between durability and a richer gold colour. - 18ct gold
Contains 75% pure gold. This is a very popular choice for UK engagement rings and fine jewellery. Richer in colour, heavier in feel, and significantly more valuable than 9ct. - 22ct gold
Contains 91.6% pure gold. Much closer to pure gold, giving a deep, rich yellow tone. Softer than 18ct and usually found in coins, wedding bands, and jewellery from Asia and the Middle East. - 24ct gold (for comparison)
99.9% pure. Very soft and rarely used in UK jewellery, but common in bullion bars and coins.
Why Does Carat Matter When Selling Gold?
When you sell gold, the carat is one of the main factors determining its value. Simply put:
- Higher carat = higher gold content = higher value per gram.
For example:
- 1 gram of 22ct gold is worth much more than 1 gram of 9ct gold, because it contains more pure gold.
- Even if two rings weigh the same, their values will differ significantly depending on their carat.
This is why gold buyers, jewellers, and pawnbrokers always test the carat (using acid tests, electronic testers, or by checking hallmarks) before giving you a price
Hallmarks: Identifying Gold Carat in the UK
In the UK, most genuine gold items are hallmarked. A hallmark is a small stamp, usually inside a ring band or on the clasp of a chain, that indicates the metal’s purity.
Here are the standard hallmark numbers for common gold carats:
- 9ct = 375 (37.5% pure gold)
- 14ct = 585 (58.5% pure gold)
- 18ct = 750 (75% pure gold)
- 22ct = 916 (91.6% pure gold)
- 24ct = 999 (99.9% pure gold)
These numbers are usually stamped alongside other symbols that identify where the item was assayed (tested and certified).
If your jewellery has a hallmark, it makes selling easier and often means you’ll get a quicker, fairer offer. If it doesn’t, buyers may need to test it before confirming its carat.
The Impact of Carat on Selling Price
Let’s break it down:
- 9ct gold is the most common in the UK. It’s durable and popular, but because it’s less than 40% pure, its resale price is lower.
- 14ct gold is less common in the UK, but if you’re selling to a jeweller or gold buyer, they’ll price it between 9ct and 18ct.
- 18ct gold fetches a much stronger price because it’s three-quarters pure gold. Buyers are willing to pay significantly more per gram.
- 22ct gold is highly valuable and closer to bullion-grade. Often sold at a premium, especially if in coin or investment form.
💡 Tip: The price you’re offered is not just about carat, it also depends on the day’s gold market price, the item’s weight, and whether it’s scrap or resalable jewellery.
Selling Gold in the UK: What You Need to Know
If you’re looking to sell gold, here are the key points to keep in mind:
- Check the current gold price
Gold prices change daily based on the global market. Before you sell, check the live gold rate so you know roughly what your items are worth. - Weigh your items
Gold buyers typically pay per gram. Weigh your jewellery at home (using a digital kitchen scale for rough guidance) to get an idea. - Know your carat
A 10g 9ct chain is worth far less than a 10g 18ct chain. Hallmarks are your best friend here. - Decide where to sell.
- High street jewellers and pawnbrokers: Convenient but may offer lower prices.
- Specialist gold buyers: Often pay closer to market rates.
- Online gold buyers: Can be competitive but always check reviews and security.
- Private sales: If the jewellery has design or brand value (e.g. Cartier, Tiffany), selling privately can earn more than scrap value.
- Scrap vs. resale value
Not all gold is sold as scrap. Vintage or branded jewellery may be worth more intact than melted down. Always check both options.
Example: Selling a 10g Ring in Different Carats
Let’s illustrate with an example. Assume the live gold price is £50 per gram (24ct equivalent).
- 9ct gold (37.5% pure):
10g × 37.5% = 3.75g of pure gold.
Value = 3.75 × £50 = £187.50. - 14ct gold (58.5% pure):
10g × 58.5% = 5.85g of pure gold.
Value = 5.85 × £50 = £292.50. - 18ct gold (75% pure):
10g × 75% = 7.5g of pure gold.
Value = 7.5 × £50 = £375.00. - 22ct gold (91.6% pure):
10g × 91.6% = 9.16g of pure gold.
Value = 9.16 × £50 = £458.00.
As you can see, the same weight of gold has very different values depending on its carat.
Common Questions About Selling Gold Carats
Is 9ct gold real gold?
Yes, 9ct is legally recognised as gold in the UK, but it’s only 37.5% pure.
Why is my 9ct jewellery so cheap compared to 18ct?
Because most of the weight in 9ct jewellery comes from other metals, not gold.
Can I sell broken gold jewellery?
Absolutely. Even broken, tangled, or single earrings can be sold for scrap value.
Do jewellers pay more for higher carat gold?
Yes, because higher carat means higher gold content.
Is it better to sell gold as jewellery or scrap?
If the piece has designer, antique, or sentimental value, you may get more selling it intact. If not, scrap value is the simplest route.
Final Thoughts
Understanding 9ct, 14ct, 18ct and 22ct gold is crucial when selling. These carat numbers tell you exactly how much pure gold your jewellery contains, and therefore how much it’s worth.
- 9ct: Affordable, durable, but lower value.
- 14ct: Balanced, less common in the UK.
- 18ct: High value, popular in fine jewellery.
- 22ct: Almost pure, very valuable, often found in coins and investment pieces.
If you’re planning to sell, always check the hallmark, weigh your items, and compare offers. By knowing your gold carats, you’ll be in the best position to get a fair price.
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