What karat tells you
Karat describes the proportion of gold in an alloy on a scale of 24 parts. Fineness uses parts per thousand. For example, 22K916 is approximately 916 parts gold per thousand; 18K750 is 750 parts per thousand.
Common fineness numbers
- 9K375 — approximately 37.5% gold.
- 14K585 — approximately 58.5% gold.
- 18K750 — 75.0% gold.
- 20K833 — approximately 83.3% gold.
- 22K916 — approximately 91.6% gold.
- 23K958 — approximately 95.8% gold.
- 24KS995 — a standard-gold grade; do not confuse it with a blanket claim of 100% gold.
Is 9K hallmarking mandatory?
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs’ Press Information Bureau release of 13 March 2026 states that mandatory hallmarking covers six grades—14K, 18K, 20K, 22K, 23K and 24KS—in notified areas. It expressly describes 9K as a voluntary hallmarking grade at that time. Verify later amendments before advising a client about a particular date or district.
Purity versus price
A higher fineness normally means a larger proportion of gold, but the actual jewellery price also depends on weight, workmanship, stones, retail charges and tax. Do not assume a 24K-style marketing label alone establishes BIS hallmarking compliance.