Guide
10K vs 14K gold: what's the difference?
14K gold is 58.3% gold; 10K is 41.7%. That difference sets the value: gram for gram, 14K holds more gold, so it's worth more.
Updated October 28, 2026 · Prices as of November 2, 2026, 6:20 p.m. Pacific
What each is worth today, per gram
Gold is trading at $3,942 per troy ounce (the Kitco bid). We pay 94% of melt value:
| Karat | Gold | We pay per gram |
|---|---|---|
| 10K | 41.7% | $49.68/g |
| 14K | 58.3% | $69.46/g |
Scrap prices are per gram of metal after melting, not per gram of what you send. Stones are removed, and dirt, glue, springs, and anything else that isn't gold or silver burn off or separate out, so the weight paid is usually less than your scale shows.
How they differ
- Gold content: 14K holds 40% more gold than 10K, gram for gram.
- Color: 10K is paler, since more of it is other metals; 14K has a warmer yellow.
- Hardness: 10K is harder and more scratch-resistant, which is why it's common in class rings and everyday pieces.
- Stamps: 10K is stamped 10K, 10KT, or 417; 14K is stamped 14K, 14KT, or 585.
When you sell, keep the karats separate: a buyer who weighs them together may pay the lower rate for all of it. More: 10K gold · 14K gold.
Gold stamps: 417 · 585 · 750 · 916 · 925 · 10K vs 14K · 14K vs 18K · All gold stamps
Gold guides: Gold price per pennyweight · Gold chains · Gold earrings · Gold rings · Gold bracelets · White gold · Gold stamps · Scrap gold per gram
The highest payouts for your gold, at a published percentage of the live Kitco bid.
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