The number before karat, or k, refers to how many parts out of 24 total parts are pure gold. 24K is the purest form of gold, but unfortunately, it is very soft and cannot be used in jewelry by itself. In order to make jewelry that is hard and durable, gold must be mixed with other metals such as Silver & Copper. 10K gold contains 10 parts pure gold and 14 parts other metals. While 14k gold contains 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts other metals. To put it simply, 14k gold has more gold content compared to 10k gold.