9 Carat Gold

9 carat gold is a gold alloy containing 37.5% pure gold mixed with 62.5% other metals, typically copper, silver or zinc. Whilst 9 carat gold isn't used for investment-grade bullion, it is commonly found in jewellery due to its affordability and durability.

What Does 9 Carat Mean?

The carat system measures gold purity on a scale of 24 parts, where 24 carat represents pure gold. 9 carat gold is 9 parts gold and 15 parts other metals, giving it a purity of 37.5%. This makes 9 carat the lowest gold standard commonly used in UK jewellery.

In the international millesimal gold fineness system, 9 carat gold is marked as 375 gold, meaning 375 parts per thousand are pure gold. This dual marking system, carats and fineness, appears on hallmarked gold items to identify their purity.

9 Carat Gold Alloys

Typically, 9 carat gold is a is a gold alloy made of 37.5% gold, 42.5% silver and 20% copper. However, it is also possible to find slight variations on this combination. 9 carat white gold, for example, is made up of 37.5% gold and 62.5% silver. 9 carat rose gold, on the other hand, has a higher copper content - 37.5% gold, 20% silver and 42.5% copper, giving the metal a more red tone. Due to being mixed with other metals, 9 carat gold is harder than pure gold.

Why is 9 Carat Gold Used in Jewellery

9 carat gold is popular in jewellery due to its balance of affordability, durability and appearance. The 62.5% of other metals in 9 carat gold gives it distinct properties compared to purer gold. It's significantly harder and more durable than pure gold, making it suitable for everyday jewellery that might experience wear and tear. Rings, bracelets and other items subject to daily use are often made in 9 carat gold for this reason.

9 Carat Gold Hallmarks

It is common to find gold hallmarks on 9 carat gold jewellery. Gold hallmarks provide legal protection for consumers, ensuring the item contains at least the stated amount of gold. The 9 carat gold hallmark in the UK carries the number 375 inside an eight-sided shield, along with the assay office mark and maker's mark.

Why 9 Carat Gold Isn't Used for Investment

Investment grade gold bullion requires much higher purity than 9 carat. The London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) sets the international standard at minimum 995 fineness (99.5% pure gold) for gold bullion bars.

This high purity ensures that when you invest in gold, you're buying primarily the precious metal itself, not alloy materials. The gold price, reflects the pure gold price, so higher-purities are often the choice for serious investors.

Sell 9 Carat Gold

BullionByPost buys 9 carat gold jewellery at competitive rates based on current market prices. If you're looking to sell 9 carat gold jewellery or other items for their scrap metal value, you can view our live buying prices and get an instant quote using our online calculator. We buy old, broken and unwanted gold jewellery including gold rings, necklaces, earrings, chains, charms and pendants, as well as medals. Visit our 9 carat gold scrap prices page to get a valuation for your unwanted items.