When you think about the purity of gold your jewellery is (measured in carats/ct, or karats/kt in the US and Canada), a few numbers probably spring to mind. In modern jewellery there are a few carats of gold you’re likely to see: 9, 10, 14 and 18. High carat gold such as 22ct is still used infrequently (probably due to the high cost of gold in the 21st century), but is more often seen in pieces from the mid twentieth century (1950s and 1960s) or earlier. Did you know that up until the 1930s there were two lesser known gold carats? Keep reading to find out more!
 |
15ct gold Most often seen in antique English and Australian pieces, 15ct gold (625 or 62.5% pure) is a favourite with collectors - and for good reason. Slightly above 14ct, but below 18ct, 15ct occupies a special place in our hearts. Often rosier in colour (but with some beautiful true yellow gold exceptions!), 15ct glows with a subtle shine usually matched with a lovely patina due to its age. Used for everything from rings through to chains and pendants, 15ct gold is a lovely and versatile choice for everyday wear! |
 |
12ct gold A rare gold carat, 12ct (0.5 or 50% pure) is seldom seen even in the antique jewellery community (we’ve only ever had one 12ct piece!) and seems to have been used primarily (if not exclusively) in antique English jewellery. It appears that 12ct was eclipsed by the popularity of 9ct gold (introduced in the same year as 12ct and 15ct), which remains a common choice to this day in Australia and England. |
15ct and 12ct were used by some makers from 1854 to 1932 and can still be found in amazing antique pieces. Both were replaced by 14ct in 1932, but are still highly sought after for their age, beauty and collectibility.