Gold Pricing
Gold pricing is based on a number of factors: the karatage of the gold, the gram weight of the item, the design of the item, and the details of the craftsmanship. The purer the gold, the more gold in the item, and the more work involved in the design and finish, the more expensive the item will be. Be careful about the temptation to buy "bargain" gold, you are usually paying less because you are getting less, either in karatage, weight, style, or craftsmanship.

All factors need to be taken into account when buying gold jewelry, you can't rely on price alone. The gold karatage and the gram weight will tell you how much gold is in the piece, but to compare prices based on that alone does not reflect the work that has gone into the jewelry. It is also important to consider the value that the design and craftsmanship adds to the jewelry.

Purity
The fineness of gold is denoted by its karat value, pure gold being 24kt. Pure gold, however, is generally too soft for jewelry use, so it is alloyed with other metals for strength and durability. Eighteen karat gold is 18/24ths (75%) pure gold and is marked either 18K or 750. Fourteen karat gold, the most common gold alloy in the United States, is 14/24ths (58.5%) pure gold and is marked either 14K or 585. The lowest purity allowed to be called gold is ten karat gold, 10/24ths (42%) gold, and marked as 10k. The higher the gold karatage, the higher the price per gram. Always ask the gold karatage and look for the karat mark when buying gold jewelry.

Weight
Not only the purity of the gold matters, but how much gold alloy is in the item. Most gold is priced by the gram weight, so the more gold in the item, the higher the price of the item. Heavyweight items will be more expensive than lightweight items. Solid items will be more expensive than hollow items. When comparing similar items, it is important to compare gram weights of the items, which will tell you how much gold is in the items. A heavyweight item may cost more, but it is usually also stronger and more durable.

Design
The design of the item will also add value to the jewelry with the details that make the piece unique and interesting. The more details and the more work involved in a style and design and the more time required of a jeweler, the more that should be expected to pay for the jewelry. Channel settings generally cost more than prong settings. Etching, filigree and intricate designs cost more than plain settings. A fancy clasp will cost more than a plain clasp. The price will reflect the amount of work that has gone into the design of the jewelry.

Craftsmanship
The quality of the craftsmanship of the jewelry is another important factor in determining the price of the jewelry. The techniques of construction can affect the durability and comfort of the jewelry. A well made item will withstand wear better and last longer. Hand finishing and detailed polishing will increase the shine of the gold as well as increase the cost. When looking for durable quality that will endure with time and wear, the craftsmanship of the jewelry can make a difference as well as add the specialness to the item.