The Encyclopedia · Metals & marks
21 and 22 karat gold
High-carat gold, 87.5 to 91.6 percent pure, warmer in colour and softer than 18 karat.
High-carat gold is traditional in Greece, the Middle East and India. Ilias Lalaounis of Athens used 22 karat gold for jewels inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs.
What to look for
The softness of high-carat gold shows in wear: look for thinned edges, stretched links and dents.
Related terms