Gold guide: karats, care and checking a gold bar
Last updated: 17 October 2026
General information from ORELITH Jewellery in Ruwi, Muscat. It is not financial advice and it does not include prices.
What “karat” means
Karat (K) measures gold purity on a scale of 24. Pure gold is 24K. A lower number means the gold is mixed with other metals, which changes its colour and hardness.
| Karat | Purity (gold content) | Character |
|---|---|---|
| 24K | 99.9% | Softest; pure gold |
| 22K | 91.6% | Rich colour; softer |
| 21K | 87.5% | Common for gold jewellery in the region |
| 18K | 75.0% | Harder; suits daily wear and gemstones |
| 14K | 58.5% | Hardest of these; most durable |
Choosing a karat
Higher karat gold has a deeper colour but is softer and scratches more easily. Lower karat gold is harder and keeps its shape better, so it is often chosen for rings and pieces worn every day.
If you are unsure, ask our team. Tell us who the piece is for and how often it will be worn.
Caring for gold jewellery
Keep each piece separate, in a soft pouch or lined box, so pieces do not scratch each other.
Take jewellery off before swimming, cleaning or using strong chemicals such as chlorine.
Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning or a check of clasps and settings, bring the piece to our team.
Checking an ORELITH gold bar
Each ORELITH gold bar has a QR code on its back. Scan it, or open the verification page, and confirm your name, email address and the bar’s serial number. The page then shows the bar’s registered weight, serial number, purity and issue date.
Only rely on the details shown on the verification page for that bar. If anything does not match, contact us before you buy or sell.
Ask us
For availability, sizes or a personal recommendation, message us on WhatsApp or call +968 2272 4153. Prices are confirmed by our team.
Quick answers
What does 22K gold mean?
22K gold is 22 parts gold out of 24, about 91.6% gold. The rest is other metals that add hardness and affect colour.
Which karat is better for everyday wear?
Lower karat gold is harder and keeps its shape better, so it is often chosen for rings and pieces worn every day. Higher karat gold has a richer colour but is softer.
How do I check an ORELITH gold bar?
Scan the QR code on the back of the bar or open the verification page, then confirm your name, email address and the bar’s serial number. The page shows the registered weight, serial number, purity and issue date.