When it comes to gold jewellery, not all that glitters is created equal. Whether you are shopping for a wedding band, a meaningful gift, or a timeless investment piece, understanding gold purity is the first step to making the right choice.
Understanding Gold Purity
What is Gold Purity?
Gold purity, measured in karats, refers to the amount of pure gold in a piece. The karat (K) system divides gold purity into 24 parts, with 24 karats signifying pure gold. In an 18-karat gold piece, 18 out of 24 (or ¾) parts are pure gold and the rest are made up of a mixture of silver, copper and a trace of zinc.
24-karat gold is also known as 999 gold under a different purity measurement metric, indicating a gold content of 99.9% (as gold can never be 100% pure).
At Poh Heng, we prefer the karat system for heightened assurance of quality and purity. Our 22-karat gold contains 916.67 gold, 0.67 greater than the typical 916 gold.
Purity VS Durability: Which karat is right for you?
The higher the purity, the softer and more malleable the gold. 24K gold, while the most valuable, is not recommended for rings or bracelets worn daily — it can scratch and bend more easily. In Singapore, 22K gold has long been favoured for wedding jewellery and Si Dian Jin sets as a symbol of wealth, status, and tradition.
For everyday pieces — necklaces, rings, and bangles you reach for daily — 18K gold is an excellent balance of purity (75% gold), durability, and design versatility. The added alloy metals strengthen the piece without compromising the warm golden lustre you love.
How Gold Purity Affects Price?
Gold prices fluctuate daily based on international market rates. Beyond spot price, the cost of a jewellery piece is influenced by three main factors: the karat of gold used, the weight of the piece, and the craftsmanship and design complexity. A 24K piece will cost more per gram than an 18K piece of the same weight, simply because it contains more pure gold.
At Poh Heng, our prices at checkout are based on the prevailing gold rate — giving you full transparency on what you're paying for.
24K Gold: The Purest Form of Gold
24-karat gold, also known as 999 gold, is the standard for pure gold. Its unmistakable deep yellow lustre and high intrinsic value make it the preferred choice for gold bars, coins, and heirloom-quality jewellery.
Because of its softness, 24K gold is best suited for pieces that are not subject to daily wear and tear — such as ceremonial bangles, pendants, or investment-grade jewellery passed down through generations.
Explore our 24K / 999 Gold Jewellery Collection to discover timeless pieces crafted from the purest gold available.
22K Gold: The Traditional Choice for Singapore
22-karat gold (916 gold) contains 91.67% pure gold and has long been the gold standard for traditional jewellery in Singapore and across Southeast Asia. Its slightly warmer tone and greater workability make it ideal for intricate, detailed craftsmanship.
In Singapore, 22K gold jewellery is a popular choice for wedding gold sets, festive gifting, and Si Dian Jin — the traditional four-piece bridal gold set that carries deep cultural significance. The slight addition of alloy metals gives 22K pieces more resilience than 24K, while retaining that rich, high-purity lustre.
Browse our 22K / 916.67 Gold Jewellery Collection to find beautifully crafted traditional and contemporary pieces for every occasion.
18K Gold: The Ideal Balance of Purity and Durability
18-karat gold contains 75% pure gold, with the remaining 25% comprising alloy metals. This composition strikes the perfect balance between purity, durability, and versatility — making it one of the most popular choices for everyday jewellery in Singapore.
18K gold is available in yellow, white, and rose gold variants, making it especially well-suited for gem-set rings, necklaces, and bracelets that need to withstand the rigours of daily wear without sacrificing elegance.
If you value a piece you can wear every day without worry, our 18K Gold Jewellery Collection offers an exquisite range of designs for every style and lifestyle.
Which Karat Gold should you choose?
Choosing the right karat depends on three key factors: how you plan to wear it, your personal style, and your budget.
Choose 24K if you are looking for an investment piece, a ceremonial gift, or a family heirloom that will be treasured for generations.
Choose 22K if you want the richness of high-purity gold with traditional craftsmanship — ideal for wedding gold, festive jewellery, or cultural occasions.
Choose 18K if you want a versatile everyday piece that holds its beauty through daily wear, particularly if you prefer white gold or rose gold, or if the piece features diamonds or gemstones.
Hallmarking and the SAO certification: Why it matters
When buying gold in Singapore, look for the SAO lion's head hallmark — the certification issued by the Singapore Assay Office (SAO) that guarantees the gold fineness stated on the piece. Every Poh Heng jewellery piece is assayed and stamped with this hallmark, in compliance with Singapore Standard SS581: 2020.
This is your assurance that when you buy a piece marked 22K from Poh Heng, it genuinely contains 91.67% gold — no guesswork, no compromise.
Learn more about Poh Heng's brand trust and quality standards
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 24K and 22K gold? 24K gold (999) has a gold content of 99.9% and is the purest form available. 22K gold (916) contains 91.67% gold and is slightly more durable, making it well-suited for detailed jewellery craftsmanship.
Is 18K gold good for daily wear? Yes. 18K gold is widely regarded as the best choice for everyday jewellery due to its balance of purity (75% gold) and durability. It is resistant enough for daily wear while still retaining a luxurious gold content.
Why is 24K gold more expensive than 18K gold? Higher purity means a greater proportion of pure gold per gram, which directly increases material cost. Design complexity and craftsmanship can also influence the final price.
What does the SAO hallmark mean on Poh Heng jewellery? The Singapore Assay Office (SAO) hallmark — bearing the symbol of a lion head — certifies that the gold fineness of the piece meets Singapore's national standards. All Poh Heng gold jewellery carries this mark as your guarantee of quality.
Can I trade in my gold jewellery at Poh Heng? Yes. Poh Heng offers a trade-in programme where you can exchange your Poh Heng gold pieces for new items at 95% of the gross-weight gold value based on the prevailing retail gold price. Visit any Poh Heng boutique for details.