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.
Hong Kong jewellery shops sell mostly 足金 (Chuk Kam, "full gold") of 999 fineness — effectively 24K — rather than 22K/916. Chains such as Chow Tai Fook and Chow Sang Sang post a daily gold price and charge workmanship on top.