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The terms Carat and Karat (often abbreviated as ct and kt) are frequently confused, but they refer to entirely different aspects of jewelry.
Karat (KT) refers to the purity of gold. It is a measure of how much pure gold is present in a metal alloy. Pure gold is defined as 24 karat, meaning all 24 parts are gold. Any number less than 24 indicates the presence of other metals mixed in to enhance strength, adjust color, or reduce cost. For example, 14KT gold contains 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts other metals. In many countries, it's legally required for gold jewelry to be marked with its karat value, such as 10KT, 14KT, or 18KT, to ensure transparency in purity.
Carat (CT), on the other hand, is a unit of weight used to measure diamonds and other precious gemstones. The origin of the term dates back to ancient times, when carob seeds — known for their uniform weight — were used as natural counterweights on balance scales. Over time, the term "carob" evolved into "carat," and today, 1 carat is defined as 0.2 grams. A carat is divided into 100 points, so a gemstone weighing 0.50 ct is considered half a carat.
Understanding this distinction is essential for making informed decisions when purchasing fine jewelry — whether you're choosing a gold setting or selecting the perfect gemstone.
