Why Gold Purity (Carats) Matters When It Comes to Value

Gold has captivated people for centuries with its beauty and lasting value. But when it comes to determining its actual worth, things can get a little tricky. One of the most important factors in evaluating gold is its purity, usually measured in carats. And if you're thinking of selling your gold in Montreal, knowing how carats affect value can help you get the most out of your pieces.

At Le Lion d’Or, a trusted gold buyer in Montreal since 2006, we specialize in transparent evaluations and competitive offers for your gold jewelry, diamonds, and luxury watches. In this blog, we break down why carat purity isn’t just a technical detail, it’s a key part of understanding your gold’s true market value.

What Exactly Is Gold Purity and How Is It Measured?

Gold purity refers to the percentage of pure gold present in a given alloy. In the world of jewelry, purity is expressed in carats (often abbreviated as K or ct), using a scale that goes up to 24. Pure gold is 24K, which means it's approximately 99.9% gold. On the other hand, something like 18K gold contains 75% pure gold, with the remaining 25% made up of other metals like copper, silver, or zinc. These added metals give the jewelry extra strength and sometimes affect its colour.

To break it down further: each carat represents 1/24 of the total composition. So, for example, a 14K gold piece contains 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts other metals, giving it a purity of about 58.3%. This system allows buyers and sellers alike to understand the true gold content and value of a given piece.

Why Does Gold Purity Directly Impact Its Value?

While gold prices fluctuate daily on the global market, the actual value of a gold item still depends largely on how much pure gold it contains. The higher the purity, the more valuable the item, gram for gram.

Here’s a quick breakdown of typical purity levels and how they compare:

• 24K gold (99.9% pure) commands the highest price per gram.

• 18K gold (75% pure) still holds significant value, but less than 24K.

• 10K gold (41.7% pure) is lower in value due to the reduced gold content.

This is why, when you're looking to sell gold, it's essential to know its carat level. Two pieces may weigh the same, but the one with higher purity will almost always fetch a better price.

How Is Gold Value Calculated Based on Carats?

Calculating the value of a gold item isn’t overly complicated, but it needs to be done accurately. Here’s a simple method to estimate what your gold is worth:

1. First, determine the total weight in grams.

2. Check the stamp or consult an expert to verify purity.

3. Calculate the pure gold content using the formula: (Carats ÷ 24) × total weight.

4. Multiply by the current gold price per gram. This gives you a solid estimate of the item's worth.

Let’s look at an example:

You have an 18K gold bracelet that weighs 10 grams. If the market price for pure gold is $80 CAD per gram, the value calculation would look like this:

(18 ÷ 24) × 10 × 80 = $600 CAD

This formula helps you understand what portion of your item’s weight is pure gold and how much it’s worth at current market rates.

The Importance of Expert, Transparent Evaluations

At Le Lion d’Or, we know every gold item has its own story and its own value. That’s why we offer free, no-obligation evaluations based on accurate carat measurement and real-time market pricing. Whether you’re selling gold jewelry, rare coins, or even dental gold, our team provides honest, immediate offers and pays on the spot.

We also buy diamonds and luxury watches, including top brands like Rolex. With us, you get more than just a price; you get peace of mind and a reliable, secure transaction every time.

Since 2006, Le Lion d’Or has been a trusted name for anyone looking to sell gold in Montreal. We stay up to date with gold market trends to offer competitive, fair prices that reflect the real value of your items. Our process is fast, transparent, and designed to help you convert your valuables into cash without the stress.

Whether it’s gold, diamonds, or high-end watches, our local, professional service ensures you walk away confident and satisfied, with cash in hand. Visit Le Lion d’Or in Montreal or reach out to our team. We’re here to give you the best experience and the best value for your precious items.