22K or 18K? It depends on the piece, not the price.
22K is 91.6% pure gold. 18K is 75%. It is tempting to read that as better and worse, but they are solving different problems — and buying the wrong one for the job is a more expensive mistake than buying the lower purity.
The two purities, side by side
22K — 916
91.6% gold. Warmer, deeper yellow. Softer metal.
Best for: plain chains, mangalsutra, bridal sets, traditional work, and anything bought partly as a store of value.
Watch for: it scratches and bends more easily, and it holds stones less securely.
18K — 750
75% gold. Slightly paler. Noticeably harder.
Best for: diamond and stone settings, everyday rings, and fine detailed work that must hold its shape.
Watch for: less gold by weight, so it holds less resale value per gram.
The short version
- Stones?
- 18K. A soft setting loses stones, and that costs more than the purity saved.
- Worn daily?
- 18K for rings and bracelets that take knocks. 22K is fine for a chain or mangalsutra under clothing.
- Bridal or heirloom?
- 22K. It is the tradition, the colour is right, and it holds value per gram.
- Buying partly as savings?
- 22K, straightforwardly — more gold per gram.
Both are hallmarked. Both carry a HUID. Whichever you choose, the stamp should say 22K916 or 18K750 and the app should agree.