The Atelier Journal
18K vs 22K Gold: Which Is Right for Your Earrings?
The short answer 18K gold is 75% pure gold alloyed for strength, ideal for daily-wear studs and hoops. 22K gold is 91.6% pure, softer, warmer in tone, and traditional for bridal and heritage pieces like jhumkas and chandbali, which prioritise craftsmanship and heirloom value over daily durability.
What the numbers mean
Gold purity is measured in karats out of 24. 18K is 18/24 parts pure gold (75%), alloyed with metals like copper and silver for added strength. 22K is 22/24 parts pure gold (91.6%), softer and warmer in colour, closer to gold in its natural state.
Why 18K suits everyday earrings
The alloy in 18K gold makes it more resistant to scratching and bending — exactly what a stud or hoop worn daily needs. Our Solstice Hoops and Aurelia Drops are both 18K for this reason.
Why 22K suits heritage and bridal pieces
22K's higher purity gives it the deep, warm colour associated with traditional Indian jewellery, and it takes fine hand-engraving and enamel (meenakari) work better than harder alloys. Our Royal Heritage collection — chandbali and jhumka pieces — is crafted in 22K for exactly this reason, alongside 18K gold in select settings.
Hallmarking
Look for the BIS hallmark stamp confirming purity (916 for 22K, 750 for 18K) on every piece. Every EARFYNE design is hallmarked before it leaves the atelier.
Related Questions
Is 22K gold too soft for earrings?
For statement and bridal pieces worn occasionally, no — the softness that makes 22K unsuitable for rings is not a concern for earrings, which see far less daily friction.
What does the BIS hallmark number mean?
916 marks 22K gold (91.6% pure); 750 marks 18K gold (75% pure).
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