Choosing Between 9ct, 14ct, or 18ct Gold: What’s the Best Engagement Ring Metal for You?

When you’re designing a custom piece of jewellery—whether it’s an engagement ring, a wedding band, or something to commemorate a special moment—one of the key decisions is choosing the right gold carat. At my Sunshine Coast jewellery studio, I work closely with each client to guide them through this process, and I want to explain the differences between 9ct, 14ct, and 18ct gold so you can make an informed choice based on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences.

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Understanding Gold Carats

The carat (ct) of gold refers to how much pure gold is in the metal, with 24ct being pure gold. However, because pure gold is soft, it’s usually alloyed with other metals like silver, copper, or palladium to make it more durable. The higher the carat, the more pure gold it contains, while lower carat options have a greater mix of other metals, which increases their strength.

9ct Gold: Durability and Affordability

9ct gold is made of 37.5% pure gold, with the rest made up of alloyed metals, making it more affordable and durable than higher carat options.

Durability — With more alloy metals, 9ct gold is stronger and more resistant to everyday wear and tear. It’s perfect if you’re after a piece that’s built to last, especially if you live an active lifestyle.

Affordability — Its lower gold content makes 9ct more budget-friendly, ideal if you want a larger design without breaking the bank, such as a dress ring or bangle. 

Colour — The tone is a bit paler compared to 14ct or 18ct gold, but still retains that timeless golden hue.

Who is 9ct gold for?

If you’re looking for something strong, affordable, and suited for daily wear—9ct gold is a fantastic option. We don't recommend 9ct gold for engagement rings or wedding bands, but we would suggest to choose 9ct gold for a dress ring, necklace, chain, pendant or earrings.

14ct Gold: The Sweet Spot

14ct gold contains 58.5% pure gold, offering a great middle ground between the durability of 9ct and the luxury of 18ct.

Balanced Durability — While softer than 9ct, 14ct is still tough enough for everyday wear while offering a warmer, richer colour.

Affordability with Elegance — It’s a touch more luxurious than 9ct but without the premium price tag of 18ct, making it a good choice for those who want a little more richness in their jewellery.

Versatility — 14ct gold works beautifully for both simple and detailed designs, making it a great option for engagement rings and wedding bands.

Who is 14ct gold for?

If you want a balance between elegance and practicality, with a bit more richness than 9ct, 14ct gold might be your perfect match. We are finding that with the sharp increase in gold prices currently, our client's are opting for 14ct gold as a nice middle of the road option which allows them to put that little saving into their centre stone to enable them to get a larger, or a higher quality, diamond.

18ct Gold: Pure Luxury

18ct gold is made of 75% pure gold, giving it a deeper, more luxurious colour that stands out for those who want something truly special.

Luxurious Appearance — The rich, warm tone of 18ct gold makes it the most luxurious choice. It’s perfect for a standout piece, whether simple or elaborate.

Hypoallergenic — Because it contains more gold, 18ct is less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it a great option for sensitive skin.

Long-Lasting Value — While it’s softer than 9ct and 14ct, the higher gold content in 18ct means it retains value over time—perfect for an investment or heirloom piece.

Who is 18ct gold for?

If you want a ring that exudes luxury and sophistication, 18ct gold is the best choice. It’s ideal for engagement rings, special occasion pieces, or any design where you want to capture the essence of timeless beauty.

What to Consider When Choosing Between 9ct, 14ct, and 18ct Gold

Durability — If the ring will be worn daily, 9ct or 14ct gold may be more practical for its strength. For a special occasion piece or something you won’t wear every day, 18ct gold offers that extra touch of luxury.

Budget — 9ct is the most affordable, while 14ct offers a balance between price and luxury. 18ct is the most expensive, but it also has the deepest colour and highest gold content.

Colour — The higher the carat, the richer and warmer the gold tone. 18ct gold has the most vibrant colour, while 9ct is slightly paler.

Purpose — Consider how you’ll wear the piece. For everyday wear, like a wedding band, 9ct or 14ct is usually the best option. If you’re creating a family heirloom or an investment piece, 18ct gold offers that opulent touch.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right gold for your custom piece is a personal decision. At Morgan & Co, we're here to help you find the perfect balance between beauty, durability, and value. Whether you opt for the strength of 9ct, the versatility of 14ct, or the luxury of 18ct gold, our expert team will guide you through the process, making sure your jewellery is crafted to last a lifetime.

Let’s create something special together at Morgan & Co — Book your free consultation and let's get started! 

With Love,
Morgan x