What is Gold Karat and Fineness?
The word "Karat" (denoted as K or kt) indicates the proportion of pure gold out of 24 total parts. Pure gold without any added base metal is 24 Karats. Because pure gold is naturally soft and malleable, metals such as copper, silver, zinc, or nickel are alloyed with it to create durable jewelry.
Purity Breakdown Matrix & Live Benchmarks
| Karat | Fineness (Hallmark) | Gold Percentage | Primary Use Case | Est. Price / Tola (PKR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 999 | 99.9% | Bullion bars, coins, investment biscuits | Rs. 451,799 |
| 22K | 916 | 91.7% | Pakistani bridal jewelry & traditional bangles | Rs. 414,149 |
| 21K | 875 | 87.5% | Middle Eastern jewelry & heavy wear rings | Rs. 395,324 |
| 18K | 750 | 75.0% | Diamond settings, watch cases, Italian chains | Rs. 338,849 |
How to Verify Gold Purity in Pakistan
In Pakistan, hallmark stamping (such as "916" for 22K) is standard at reputable jewelers. For independent verification, consumers can use certified XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) assay testing labs in major Sarafa markets (such as Karachi Saddar, Lahore Suha Bazaar, and Rawalpindi Raja Bazaar), which test purity without damaging the jewelry item.
Live Bullion Context
Today's 24K Gold Rate in Pakistan: Rs. 451,799 / tola
Apply these concepts directly with our real-time precious metals calculation tools.
Sources & Reference Material:
- World Gold Council
- Karachi Sarafa & Jewellers Association
- Bureau of Indian Standards / ISO 9202
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 24K gold suitable for daily wear rings and bangles?
No. 24K pure gold is too soft and can easily bend, scratch, or lose its shape under everyday pressure. 22K or 21K is recommended for jewelry, while 18K is preferred for stone-studded rings.
How is the price of 22K gold derived from 24K?
Multiply the 24K rate by (22 / 24). For example, if 24K gold is Rs. 451,799 per tola, 22K gold is approximately Rs. 414,149 per tola.