24K vs 23K vs 18K Gold – What Purity Is Best for Export?

24K vs 23K vs 18K Gold – What Purity Is Best for Export?

Gold trading in Africa, particularly in Cameroon, has seen tremendous growth due to rising global demand. Buyers worldwide are increasingly interested in sourcing authentic African gold (buy premium gold from Africa) directly from trusted suppliers. However, not all gold is created equal—its purity significantly affects its market value, export feasibility, and acceptance by international buyers.

In this article, we will break down the differences between 24K, 23K, and 18K gold, examine export standards, highlight refinery requirements, and provide guidance on customs acceptance. By the end, you’ll understand which gold purity is best suited for global trade.


Understanding Karats: 24K, 23K, and 18K Gold

Karat (K) measures the purity of gold, indicating the proportion of gold relative to other metals.

  • 24K Gold (99.9% Pure)
    24K gold is the purest form of gold available and commands the highest market value. It is soft, malleable, and ideal for investment-grade bullion. Buy 24K African Gold.
  • 23K Gold (95.8%-96% Pure)
    Slightly less pure than 24K, 23K gold is durable yet still highly valuable. It is often preferred for jewelry and smaller gold bars. Learn more about gold bars in South Africa.
  • 18K Gold (75% Pure)
    18K gold is a blend of gold and other metals, offering superior durability and resistance to scratches. It is popular in the jewelry market but less preferred for large-scale export due to lower gold content. Buy 18K Gold Bars.

Key Takeaway:

For international buyers looking to maximize returns, 24K gold is the optimal choice for export. 23K gold is a reliable alternative when a balance between durability and purity is desired, while 18K gold is mostly suited for jewelry exports.


Export Standards for Gold from Cameroon

Exporting gold from Cameroon requires compliance with local and international standards to ensure legality and smooth customs clearance. The key considerations include:

  1. Certification and Assaying
    Every gold shipment must be assayed to confirm its purity. Trusted suppliers like Bonasgold provide certified bars and documentation. Buy Gold Dore Bars from Cameroon.
  2. CEMAC and Local Authorization
    Exporters must comply with the CEMAC Buyer’s Permit Authorization, which governs gold exports from Central African countries. Check CEMAC Permit Info.
  3. Documentation
    Proper KYC (Know Your Customer) and export documentation are mandatory for legal international trade. Bonasgold ensures buyers complete all necessary paperwork. Bonasgold KYC Submission.
  4. Packaging and Security
    Export-grade gold must be securely packaged to prevent loss or tampering during transit. For refined bars, ensure tamper-proof packaging and full documentation. Buy Refined Gold Bars.

Refinery Requirements

Gold destined for export is often sent to refiners to certify purity and prepare it for international buyers. Understanding refinery requirements is essential:

  • Accepted Purities: Most international refiners accept 24K and 23K gold. 18K gold may be less accepted due to its lower gold content.
  • Weight and Assay Documentation: Gold bars or nuggets must be weighed, and assay certificates must accompany shipments. Buy Gold Nuggets from Cameroon.
  • Unrefined Gold: If exporting unrefined gold ore, ensure the refinery can process it into pure gold bars. Buy Unrefined Gold Ore from Cameroon.

Pro Tip: Partner with suppliers who provide complete guidance for refinery processes to save time and avoid legal issues. Gold Order Process from Cameroon.


Customs Acceptance

International customs agencies are stringent about gold purity, documentation, and legal compliance:

  • Purity Verification: Customs often verify gold purity using portable analyzers or rely on certified assay documents.
  • Legal Export Compliance: Gold must have proper CEMAC permits and KYC compliance. Learn How to Buy Gold from Africa Legally.
  • International Acceptance: High-purity gold (24K) is universally accepted and ensures smoother customs processing.

Recommended for Buyers:

Always work with suppliers like Bonasgold who ensure your shipment meets international customs standards and provides verified documentation for hassle-free import. Buy Gold Directly from Africa.


Comparing 24K, 23K, and 18K Gold for Export

Feature24K Gold23K Gold18K Gold
Purity99.9%95.8%-96%75%
ValueHighestHighModerate
DurabilityLowMediumHigh
Export PreferenceMost PreferredAcceptableLess Preferred
Ideal UseInvestment, BullionJewelry, BarsJewelry

Conclusion: For international trade, 24K gold is the most competitive choice, followed by 23K gold for mixed-use shipments.


Buying Gold in Africa: Trusted Suppliers

When sourcing gold from Cameroon and Africa, reliability and legal compliance are crucial. Bonasgold is a top-tier supplier offering:

Global Buyer Guides:

Bonasgold ensures full compliance, certified documentation, and direct shipping for buyers in Dubai, Europe, USA, and Asia. How to Import Gold from Africa to Dubai.


Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Gold Purity

Choosing the right gold purity depends on your export goals:

  1. Investment & Bullion: 24K gold is ideal for maximum returns and universal acceptance.
  2. Mixed Use (Jewelry + Investment): 23K gold offers a balance of purity and durability.
  3. Jewelry & Craft: 18K gold is suitable for crafting but less favored in bulk export.

By partnering with a trusted supplier like Bonasgold, you ensure your gold meets international standards, is properly documented, and arrives safely at its destination.

Contact Bonasgold Today:
📧 [email protected] | 📞 +237 675 915 154 | 🌐 https://bonasgold.net/


How to Buy Authentic African Gold

Gold Order Process from Cameroon

Buy Gold Directly from Africa

African Gold Bullion 2025

Cheapest Way to Buy Gold Online from Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between 24K, 23K, and 18K gold?
A: 24K gold is 99.9% pure and ideal for investment. 23K gold is slightly less pure (95.8%-96%) and more durable. 18K gold is 75% pure, mainly used for jewelry. For export, 24K gold is preferred due to universal acceptance.

Q2: Which gold purity is best for export from Cameroon?
A: 24K gold is the most competitive for international trade. 23K gold is acceptable for mixed-use shipments, while 18K is mainly suitable for jewelry markets.

Q3: How can I legally export gold from Cameroon?
A: You must comply with CEMAC regulations, submit KYC documents, and obtain the necessary permits. Partnering with trusted suppliers like Bonasgold ensures legal compliance. Learn more.

Q4: Can I export unrefined gold ore for international buyers?
A: Yes, but it must meet refinery requirements. Bonasgold provides guidance for exporting unrefined gold ore safely. Buy Unrefined Gold Ore.

Q5: How do international customs verify gold purity?
A: Customs rely on certified assay reports or portable analyzers. 24K gold with proper certification ensures smooth processing. Gold Order Process.

Q6: Where can I buy high-purity African gold safely?
A: Trusted suppliers like Bonasgold provide certified 24K, 23K, and 18K gold bars, nuggets, and dore bars, fully documented for export. Buy Gold Directly from Africa.