Determining the value of a gold ring marked “14k” involves understanding several factors beyond the gold content itself. Fourteen-karat gold signifies that 14 out of 24 parts of the ring are pure gold, the remainder being other metals added for durability and color variation. A simple band weighing 5 grams, for example, would contain approximately 2.92 grams of pure gold (5 grams * 14/24). This calculation provides a starting point for valuation.
Accurate appraisal is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Understanding the value ensures fair pricing in transactions and informs decisions regarding insurance or estate planning. Historically, gold has served as a store of value and a hedge against inflation, contributing to the enduring interest in gold jewelry. The complexities of gold valuation have developed alongside the long history of goldsmithing and jewelry making.