Use this calculator to convert any gold item's weight into its 24k pure gold equivalent and estimate value based on today's price per gram.
What this 24k gold calculator does
Not all gold items are pure. Most jewelry is mixed with other metals for strength, color, and durability. This calculator helps you answer two practical questions quickly:
- How many grams of pure 24k gold are actually in my item?
- What is that pure gold worth at a given market price per gram?
If you are buying, selling, pawning, recycling, or comparing offers from different gold buyers, understanding 24k equivalent weight gives you a much clearer baseline.
How the calculation works
Step 1: Convert karat to purity
Gold purity in karats is based on 24 parts. So:
- 24k = 24/24 = 100% pure
- 22k = 22/24 = 91.67% pure
- 18k = 18/24 = 75% pure
- 14k = 14/24 = 58.33% pure
Step 2: Find pure gold weight
Pure gold (g) = Item weight (g) × (Karat / 24)
Step 3: Estimate melt value
Gross value = Pure gold (g) × 24k price per gram
If a buyer pays less than market (which is common), apply payout rate: Estimated payout = Gross value × (Payout % / 100).
Example
Suppose you have a 30g bracelet stamped 18k, and spot-equivalent 24k gold is $70/g:
- Purity fraction: 18 ÷ 24 = 0.75
- Pure gold: 30 × 0.75 = 22.5g
- Gross value: 22.5 × $70 = $1,575
- At a 90% dealer payout: $1,575 × 0.90 = $1,417.50
That final payout estimate helps you quickly judge whether an offer is reasonable.
Why payout rate matters
Many people make the mistake of comparing a buyer’s offer directly to spot price. Buyers usually deduct for refining, handling, overhead, risk, and margin. A payout rate field helps model this reality.
- Retail jewelry resale: often far below melt due to condition/brand demand
- Scrap gold buyers: often 70%–98% of melt value
- High-volume or trusted dealers may pay closer to spot
Tips before you sell gold
1) Verify weight and karat independently
Use a precise scale (to 0.01g) and check hallmarks (10k, 14k, 18k, 22k, 24k). When in doubt, get an acid test or XRF reading.
2) Separate by purity
Don’t mix 10k and 22k pieces into one rough estimate. Calculate each group separately for a more accurate total.
3) Compare at least 3 offers
A quick comparison can significantly increase your payout. Bring your own calculator number so you're negotiating from facts.
4) Track live gold prices
Spot prices move throughout the day. If possible, check rates before visiting a dealer and ask what reference price they use.
Frequently asked questions
Is 24k always best?
24k is purest, but also softer. For daily-wear jewelry, lower karat alloys (like 14k or 18k) are often more durable.
Can I use this for coins and bars?
Yes, if you know the actual purity and weight. For investment products, dealer premiums and buyback spreads may differ from jewelry scrap pricing.
Does this calculator include taxes or fees?
No. It estimates intrinsic metal value and optional payout adjustment only.
Educational use only. Market prices and dealer terms vary by location, timing, and product type.