Quick Answer
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Crossword clue: “Gold measurement”
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Answer: KARAT – 5 letters
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Clue number and direction: 3 Down
The New York Times crossword clue “Gold measurement” is answered with KARAT in 5 letters. In the February 13, 2026 NYT Mini, KARAT appears at 3-Down.
Why KARAT Is the Right NYT Answer
“Karat” is the standard unit used to describe the purity of gold, so it directly matches the clue “Gold measurement.” A full 24-karat rating denotes pure gold, while smaller numbers indicate more alloy mixed in.
Because the grid slot is 5 letters and the clue is singular (“measurement”), KARAT fits more cleanly than alternatives like “oz.” or “grams,” and NYT Mini answer keys list KARAT for this entry.
What KARAT Means
A karat is a unit that tells you how pure a piece of gold is, on a scale up to 24. For example, 18-karat gold is 18 parts gold out of 24 total parts metal.
In crosswords, whenever you see “gold purity,” “gold rating,” or “gold measurement,” KARAT is almost always what the setter is aiming for.
Solving Tips for Similar NYT Clues
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Clues like “Gold purity measure,” “24-___ gold,” or “Jeweler’s measure” often point to KARAT.
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Watch spelling: U.S. crosswords usually use KARAT for gold purity and CARAT for gemstone weight; check crossings to be sure.
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For a 5-letter pattern K_R_T or _ARAT tied to gold, KARAT is the go-to fill.
Crossword-Specific Help: Pattern & Crossings
In the February 13, 2026 NYT Mini, 3-Down is a 5-letter entry, which lines up exactly with KARAT. It appears in the grid as:
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KARAT(K‑A‑R‑A‑T)
Each letter is supported by Across crossings like FAKE, MILAN, WEIRD, AREAS, and HINT, so once those are in place, KARAT slots in cleanly with no conflicting squares.
Other Clues That Might Use KARAT
KARAT is a common crossword answer and may also appear under clues such as:
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“24-___ gold”
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“Measure of gold purity”
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“Jeweler’s rating”
Any 5-letter clue that mixes “gold” with “measure,” “rating,” or “purity” is a strong candidate for KARAT.
Complete February 13, 2026 NYT Mini Answers Today (Across & Down)
Here are the key answers from the February 13, 2026 NYT Mini to help you complete the full grid.
Across
| Clue | Answer | Letters |
|---|---|---|
| Like flowers that never wilt | FAKE | 4 |
| Italian city that’s hosting part of the 2026 Winter Olympics | MILAN | 5 |
| “Huh, that’s strange …” | WEIRD | 5 |
| Regions | AREAS | 5 |
| Crossword clue, e.g. | HINT | 4 |
Down
| Clue | Answer | Letters |
|---|---|---|
| Guy in a kitchen | FIERI | 5 |
| Visitor from another world | ALIEN | 5 |
| Gold measurement | KARAT | 5 |
| “Don’t tell me how it ___!” | ENDS | 4 |
| Kissing sound | MWAH | 4 |




