What are the golden measures?

The unit of measurement for gold is the carat. The carat is used to measure the weight of diamonds (0.20 grams per carat), but also gold. In the case of precious metals, the carat does not refer to the weight, but to the purity according to the following scale:

• 24 karat: pure gold. 24 karat gold is found in gold bars and some investment gold coins;
• 18 karat: contains 75% pure gold and 25% alloy.

The lower the carat weight, the lower the purity of the object. Mixtures of gold, silver, zinc, or copper (called "alloys") make gold harder and easier to work with. Some metals also offer shades of color sought after in jewelry (rose gold, white gold, etc.).

Jewelry and other gold objects are provided with certificates of authenticity that indicate the purity and weight of the gold used.

Weighing gold is a key factor in determining the price of the item. Indeed, even if the carat weight is the same, the value of investment coins and bars varies. A 24-karat gold bar will not sell for the same price if it weighs one kilogram or 5 grams.

Jewelers and professionals in thepurchase of gold have scales that are certified and inspected by the authorities.

The official unit of measurement for the price of gold is the troy ounce, which is equal to 31.10 grams. The London Bullion Market Association determines the price of gold daily based on global supply and demand. Currently, an ounce of gold is worth approximately €1,838. However, the price of bars and gold coins also takes into account:

• The premium;
• The difficulty of manufacturing the bars;
• The purity.

GoldUnion professionals are available at our branch or via our e-commerce site to help you discover our range of investment gold coins and bars.