What is 22K gold?
22 karat gold contains 22 parts gold and 2 parts other metals (usually copper and silver), making it about 91.6% pure — which is why it is hallmarked 916. The small amount of alloy makes 22K noticeably harder and more durable than pure 24K gold, while retaining a rich gold colour. That balance of durability and gold content makes 22K the standard for traditional jewellery across much of Asia and the Middle East.
Across the eurozone, jewellery standards vary by country: 18K (750) dominates fine jewellery in France, Italy and Spain, while 14K (585) is common in Germany and central Europe. 22K and 24K jewellery is rarer and mostly found in communities with South Asian or Middle Eastern gifting traditions.