Ten karat gold signifies a gold alloy composition where 10 parts out of 24 are pure gold, with the remaining 14 parts consisting of other metals. This proportion translates to 41.7% gold content. For example, a ten karat gold ring weighs 10 grams, approximately 4.17 grams of that ring is pure gold. The rest is comprised of metals such as silver, copper, nickel, or zinc.
The utilization of ten karat gold offers a balance between precious metal value and durability. The presence of additional metals strengthens the alloy, making it more resistant to scratches and wear compared to higher karat gold. Historically, ten karat gold has been a popular choice for everyday jewelry due to its practical attributes and comparatively lower cost, making it accessible to a wider consumer base.