Gold Education
Better Gold: Why We Choose 14ct
Every piece we make is solid gold — never plated — and independently hallmarked in the UK. We believe 14ct gold is the best balance of colour, durability and lifespan, which is why we call it Better Gold. Here is why — and how it compares to 9ct and 18ct.
What "solid gold" really means
Not all gold jewellery is the same. Gold-plated and gold-filled pieces have only a thin layer of gold over a base metal, which can wear away over time. Solid gold is gold all the way through — so it keeps its colour, does not flake, and can be worn every day and for a lifetime.
Pure 24ct gold is too soft for everyday jewellery, so it is mixed with other metals for strength. The amount of pure gold is measured in carats (ct) and shown in the hallmark as parts per 1,000 — that is the difference between 9ct, 14ct and 18ct gold. Each carat is a trade-off between gold content and durability, which is exactly why we settled on 14ct.
9ct vs 14ct vs 18ct gold
Higher carat means more pure gold and a richer colour; the trade-off is durability. 14ct sits in the sweet spot.
| Gold | Pure gold | Hallmark | Character | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9ct gold | 37.5% | 375 | Contains more non-gold metals. It is hard, but that hardness can make it more brittle and prone to cracking over time. | Value-focused everyday pieces. |
| 14ct goldBetter Gold | 58.5% | 585 | The balance we recommend — a warm, rich colour with the durability for everyday wear and a long life. | Everyday jewellery, wedding & engagement rings. |
| 18ct gold | 75% | 750 | The richest gold colour, but its high gold content makes it softer — so it can scratch, bend and show wear more readily. | Statement pieces and the most luxurious tone. |
All are genuine solid gold and independently hallmarked by the London Assay Office.
Why we call 14ct “Better Gold”
Pure gold is soft, so every carat is a balance between gold content and durability. We believe 14ct gets that balance right: a rich, warm gold colour, with the strength to be worn every day and last for years — without the brittleness of 9ct or the softness of 18ct.
On our lighter-weight pieces we go a step further. Our workshop applies a specialist heat-hardening process, so they wear harder and last longer than untreated gold of the same weight — keeping them beautifully affordable without compromising on longevity.
14ct is our recommendation, not a limit. Our workshop, team and equipment allow us to craft in 9ct, 10ct, 14ct, 18ct and 22ct gold — so if you have a specific requirement, we can make it.
Which gold is right for you?
For everyday wear
14ct — our Better Gold. Rich colour with the durability for daily life; on lighter pieces, heat-hardened for extra longevity.
For wedding & engagement rings
14ct or 18ct. 14ct for the best balance of colour and durability, or 18ct for the most luxurious tone.
For a specific requirement
9ct, 10ct, 18ct or 22ct. We craft across the full range — just ask, or start a bespoke enquiry.
Hallmarked, so you can be sure
By UK law, gold jewellery above a certain weight must be independently tested and hallmarked to guarantee its purity. Every gold piece we make is hallmarked by the London Assay Office under our registered maker's mark, CMJ. The hallmark confirms the metal and carat, so you always know exactly what you are wearing — and buying.
Gold, answered
Why do you recommend 14ct gold (“Better Gold”)?
Because it balances everything that matters: a rich gold colour, real durability, and a long life. 9ct is harder but its higher proportion of other metals can make it more brittle; 18ct has more gold but is softer and shows wear more easily. 14ct sits in the sweet spot — and on lighter pieces we heat-harden it for even greater longevity.
Can you make jewellery in other carats?
Yes. While 14ct is our recommendation, our workshop can craft in 9ct, 10ct, 14ct, 18ct and 22ct solid gold. If you have a specific requirement, just ask or start a bespoke enquiry.
Is solid gold better than gold-plated or gold-filled?
Yes, for lasting wear. Plated and filled jewellery has only a thin gold layer that can wear away, while solid gold is gold throughout — so it keeps its colour and can be worn for a lifetime. Everything we make is solid gold.
What is the difference between 9ct, 14ct and 18ct gold?
It is the amount of pure gold in the metal: 9ct is 37.5%, 14ct is 58.5%, and 18ct is 75%. Higher carat gives a richer colour; lower carat contains more other metals. All are genuine solid gold, hallmarked by the London Assay Office.
Will solid gold tarnish or fade?
Solid gold does not rust and will not flake or fade the way plated jewellery can. With normal care it keeps its colour for a lifetime.
Can I choose the gold for a bespoke piece?
Absolutely. Our bespoke service lets you commission a piece in your chosen carat of solid gold, made to your design.
Explore in solid gold: Wedding rings · Engagement rings · Bespoke