What Is 14K Gold? Purity, Value and How to Tell If It Is Real
Quick answer: 14K gold is an alloy of 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts other metals, so it is 58.33% gold. It is stamped 14K, 14KT or 585, and today it is worth $72.83 per gram in melt value.
How Much Gold Is in 14K Gold?
| Per gram of 14K | Per 10 grams of 14K | |
|---|---|---|
| Pure gold | 0.583 g | 5.83 g |
| Other metals (silver, copper, zinc, nickel or palladium) | 0.417 g | 4.17 g |
| Value today | $72.83 | $728.33 |
The karat system divides gold into 24 parts. 14 out of 24 equals 58.33%. European hallmarks round this to 585 parts per thousand, which is why 14K is also called 585 gold.
Why Jewelry Is Made in 14K
Pure gold is too soft for rings and chains that are worn every day. The alloy metals in 14K make it harder, more scratch resistant and less expensive, while keeping a warm gold color. That balance makes 14K the most popular karat for jewelry in the United States.
Yellow, White and Rose 14K Gold
All three contain the same 58.33% gold and are worth the same per gram. The color comes from the other metals: copper for rose gold, nickel or palladium plus rhodium plating for white gold. See the 14K white gold price.
Is 14K Gold Real Gold?
Yes. 14K is solid gold all the way through. It is different from:
- 14K gold-filled (GF, 1/20): a thick layer of 14K bonded to brass, about 5% of the weight (gold-filled value)
- 14K gold-plated (GP, HGE, EP): a very thin coating over base metal, with almost no gold value
- Unmarked pieces: which need an acid, electronic or XRF test before a buyer will pay for them
How to Tell If 14K Gold Is Real
- Look for a stamp inside a ring band or near a chain clasp: 14K, 14KT, 14 KT or 585
- Watch for GF, GP, HGE, RGP or EP after the 14K, which mean gold-filled or plated
- Try a magnet: solid gold is not magnetic, though some fakes are not either
- Check for wear: plated pieces show a different metal on edges and clasps
- Ask a jeweler or gold buyer for an electronic or XRF test, usually free
Our gold hallmarks guide lists every stamp.
Does 14K Gold Tarnish?
14K can dull slightly over time because of the 41.67% of other metals, especially copper. It does not rust and cleans easily with warm soapy water. 18K tarnishes less and 10K a little more.
What Is 14K Gold Worth?
14K gold is worth $72.83 per gram, or $113.27 per pennyweight, today. Check the live 14K gold price per gram, the value by weight table or the gold calculator.
Gold price per gram by karat: 10K gold price per gram ($52.02) · 18K gold price per gram ($93.64) · 22K gold price per gram ($114.45) · 24K gold price per gram ($124.86) · all karats
Frequently Asked Questions
What percent gold is 14K?
14K is 58.33% pure gold (14 ÷ 24), often rounded to 58.5% and stamped 585.
How much gold is in 14K?
Each gram of 14K contains 0.583 grams of pure gold.
Is 14K gold worth anything?
Yes. It is worth $72.83 per gram in melt value today, and every gold buyer accepts it.
Is 14K gold good quality?
Yes. It is durable enough for daily wear and keeps its color, which is why most US engagement rings and chains are 14K.
Will 14K gold turn my finger green?
Rarely. Copper in the alloy can react with some skin types or lotions, but this is far more common with plated or low-karat jewelry.
