what is 24 karat gold

24 karat gold, often denoted as 24k gold, is the purest form of gold available for jewelry and other uses. It is composed of 100% gold with no other metals mixed in. This high level of purity gives 24k gold a distinct bright yellow color and makes it extremely valuable. However, due to its softness, 24k gold is not commonly used for everyday jewelry, such as engagement rings and wedding bands, as it is prone to bending and scratching easily. Instead, it is often used for investment purposes, to create gold coins or bars, and in some medical devices. Lower caratages, such as 18k, 14k, and 10k, contain less gold and are more commonly used for jewelry due to their increased durability and suitability for everyday wear. The process of alloying, which involves mixing other metals with pure 24k gold, is used to create different gold colors and increase its durability.