Gold purity is one of the most important factors affecting a piece’s appearance, durability, and value. Whether you are evaluating jewelry, coins, or bullion, understanding the differences between 18k, 22k, and 24k gold can help you make informed decisions. While all three contain real gold, they behave very differently in everyday use and in the marketplace.
Gold has been valued for thousands of years, yet most gold objects in circulation today are not made from pure gold. Instead, they are crafted from gold alloys—mixtures of gold and other metals designed to improve strength, appearance, and practicality. Understanding why pure gold is rarely used helps explain how modern gold items are made and why alloyed gold dominates jewelry, coins, and decorative objects.
The term “karat” is used constantly in discussions about gold jewelry, yet it is often misunderstood. Many people assume higher karat automatically means better gold, but the reality is more nuanced. Karat is a measure of purity, not quality, and it plays a major role in how a gold item looks, feels, and performs over time.
Edwardian gold refers to gold jewelry and decorative objects produced during the Edwardian era, a relatively short but highly influential period in the early 20th century. Known for its refinement and lightness, Edwardian gold reflects a shift away from heavier Victorian styles toward more delicate, elegant designs.
Whiting Manufacturing Company produced some of the most distinctive American sterling silver of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Collectors value the firm for its craftsmanship, ornate patterns, and contribution to the golden age of American silver. But how much is Whiting sterling silver actually worth today? Values vary widely, and understanding what drives pricing helps owners, sellers, and collectors make informed decisions.
Whiting Manufacturing Company created some of the finest American sterling silver of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Because the firm produced both everyday flatware and elaborate artistic pieces, many people today wonder whether Whiting sterling silver holds meaningful value. The short answer is yes—Whiting silver is generally worth significantly more than its melt value, but how much depends on several clear factors.
