Gold (24K)

Precious metal · per troy oz

$3,250

per troy oz · $104.49/gram

Characteristics

Gold is the most widely used precious metal in jewelry. Its value is driven by global markets, central bank reserves, and investment demand. Karat indicates purity — 24K is pure gold, 18K is 75% gold.

Price by Karat

24K Pure Gold

$104.49/g

$3,250/oz

100% pure

18K Gold

$78.37/g

$2,437.5/oz

75% pure

14K Gold

$60.92/g

$1,894.75/oz

58% pure

10K Gold

$43.57/g

$1,355.25/oz

42% pure

Jewelry Metal Value Reference

Estimated melt value of common jewelry pieces based on typical weights.

Jewelry Type	Typical Weight	24K Pure Gold	18K Gold	14K Gold
Thin Ring	2g	$209	$157	$122
Standard Ring	4g	$418	$313	$244
Heavy Ring	8g	$836	$627	$487
Pendant	3g	$313	$235	$183
Chain (18")	10g	$1,045	$784	$609
Bracelet	15g	$1,567	$1,176	$914
Earrings (pair)	3g	$313	$235	$183

Value Drivers

purity★★★

Higher karat = more gold content = higher melt value. 24K is pure, 18K is standard for fine jewelry.

weight★★★

Jewelry gold value scales linearly with weight. Measured in grams or pennyweight (dwt).

craftsmanship★★☆

Designer pieces, intricate settings, and brand premiums add 30-100%+ over melt value.

condition★☆☆

Worn/damaged pieces may be valued at melt only. Pristine pieces retain retail premium.

Market Dynamics

Supply

Annual mine production ~3,600 tonnes. Central banks hold ~36,000 tonnes. Recycled gold accounts for ~25% of supply.

Demand

Jewelry (~50%), investment (~25%), central banks (~15%), technology (~10%). India and China are largest jewelry markets.