We want to settle this debate once and for all.

There’s a lot of discourse online about what constitutes "real" gold jewellery. Some claim that anything below 22k isn't gold, and others argue that anything above 18k can't realistically be used in jewellery. 

First things first, it is a matter of personal preference and will always be. 

But at Namiri, We Choose 14k Gold — And Always Will

Here’s why:

The Hue You’ll Want to Wear

Here’s a truth not enough people talk about: not every shade of gold works with everything, or everyone.

18k gold has a luxurious reputation and yes, it’s beautiful—but it tends to be rich, saturated, and very yellow. It can clash with cooler undertones, everyday outfits, and modern minimal styling. Many luxury brands that work with 18k tweak the tone by adjusting alloys to mimic the more neutral glow of 14k, for exactly this reason. Think Cartier’s Love bangles, watches, and even Rolex pieces. Ultimately, 14k gold has that balanced, neutral gold sheen without compromising on the luxury feel.

14k gold has a softer, champagne-toned hue that feels effortless and wearable. It complements a wide range of skin tones, layers beautifully with other metals, and subtly enhances your look without overpowering it.

It’s Stronger—And That’s Not Just a Bonus

Gold is the most malleable metal on Earth. The higher the karat, the purer the gold—but also the softer and more prone to scratching, bending, or breaking.

14k gold is 58.5% pure gold, alloyed with stronger metals to make it more durable and practical for everyday life. It’s scratch-resistant, less prone to dents, and holds delicate shapes and settings more securely.

Some assume 14k is used to cut costs. But that’s not why we use it. We use it because it lasts.

Moreover, it’s nearly impossible to craft delicate chains above 18k. Higher-karat golds tend to require thicker, chunkier forms to hold their structure. 14k, while still very malleable, allows for a finer, more delicate finish, especially in chains and minimal silhouettes, pieces with gemstones and diamonds.

These pieces demand structural integrity. That’s where 14k shines.

It’s the only karat strong enough to stay minimal, still last, and still be majority gold.

Yes, 18k Has a Place Too (Just Not Here—Yet)

18k gold is a strong contender, and it absolutely has a place in fine jewellery. We respect it, we love it, and down the line, we plan to offer it for designs that suit its richer karat and tone.

But for now, we’re designing jewellery to live in—not just to look at.

Anything above 18k becomes impractical for delicate, modern pieces. And anything below 14k? It’s no longer majority gold. 10k and 9k have more alloy than gold, and we don’t believe in compromising that far for wearability.

Gold Is Still Gold — And 14k Holds Value

We’re often asked whether 14k is a "real" investment.

The answer? Absolutely.

Gold is gold.

Whether it’s 14k (58.5% pure) or 18k (75% pure), you’ll always retain the value of the gold itself. The return might differ slightly proportionate to the gold, but 14k remains a globally recognised, durable, and respected karat of solid gold, not to be confused with gold-plated or vermeil.

Final Thoughts

We don’t believe in jewellery that’s too precious to wear.

We believe in gold that lives with you, grows with you, and holds its own through the chaos of everyday life.

9k isn't majority gold, and 22k is too soft to last. 14k is the sweet spot, strong enough to live in, flattering enough to wear every day, and still majority gold.

That’s why we chose 14k. Because it looks good.It wears even better. And it’s made to last.