Karat measures gold purity. 24k is pure gold — too soft for jewellery — so it's alloyed with other metals for strength. 14k is 58.5% gold; 18k is 75% gold. That single difference drives everything below.
14k vs 18k vs platinum at a glance
| 14k Gold | 18k Gold | Platinum | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold purity | 58.5% | 75% | ~95% platinum |
| Durability | Hardest — best for daily wear | Softer, scratches more easily | Very durable, dense |
| Colour | Slightly lighter gold | Richer, warmer gold | Naturally white |
| Price | Most affordable | Higher (more gold) | Highest |
| Best for | Everyday rings, active hands | Heirloom pieces, richer look, sensitive skin | Premium white setting, hypoallergenic |
Durability: 14k wins for daily wear
Because 14k has more alloy, it's harder and more scratch-resistant than 18k. For an engagement ring or a band worn every day — especially with active hands — 14k holds up better over the years. 18k, being purer, is a little softer and shows wear a touch faster.
Colour & feel: 18k looks richer
18k has a warmer, more saturated gold colour and a more luxurious weight and feel, which is why it's often chosen for statement or heirloom pieces. In white gold, 18k also tends to look brighter. If the depth of the gold colour matters most to you, 18k is worth the premium.
Sensitive skin
Higher-purity 18k contains less alloy (and less nickel), so it's a safer bet for sensitive skin. Platinum, being hypoallergenic and naturally white, is the gold-standard for reactive skin.
Which should you choose?
- Choose 14k if you want the best everyday durability and value — ideal for a ring worn daily.
- Choose 18k if you want a richer gold colour, a more premium feel, or have sensitive skin.
- Choose platinum for a naturally white, hypoallergenic, premium setting.
Every Vaima piece is offered in solid gold and platinum options with the exact metal and weight disclosed on your invoice. For more on gold purity, read our gold karats explained guide.