What Does “585”, “750”, or “916” Mean? Gold Stamp & Hallmark Guide
Searching for the 585 gold meaning (or wondering what 750 or 916 means) usually happens in a very specific moment: you flip a ring over, squint at tiny numbers inside the band, and ask yourself if it’s real — and what you actually bought. The good news is that these numbers are typically straightforward: they’re a purity code, showing how much gold is in the alloy.
This guide explains the most common gold stamps, what they can (and can’t) prove, and what to do if your jewelry has no stamp at all. At Aulyn, we’re big believers in quiet transparency — especially for fine jewelry meant to last.
1. Quick Answers: 585, 750, 916 (and More)
- 585 = 14k gold (58.5% gold)
- 750 = 18k gold (75% gold)
- 916 = 22k gold (91.6% gold)
These are usually “millesimal fineness” marks: parts of pure gold per 1,000.
| Stamp you see | Usually means | Karat equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 417 (or 410) | 41.7% gold | 10k | Common on North American jewelry; 10k is the minimum karat commonly sold as gold jewelry in some markets. |
| 585 | 58.5% gold | 14k | Very common for everyday fine jewelry. |
| 750 | 75% gold | 18k | Richer color, higher gold content; often used for premium pieces. |
| 916 | 91.6% gold | 22k | Common in high-purity gold jewelry traditions; softer and more yellow. |
| 999 / 999.9 | ~99.9% gold | 24k | Often seen on bullion or very high-purity pieces; typically too soft for many everyday ring designs. |
2. Stamp vs Hallmark: What’s the Difference?
People often say “hallmark” to mean any marking inside jewelry, but there are a few different mark types that can appear together:
-
Purity mark: a number like
585,750, or a karat mark like14K,18K. - Maker’s mark: a brand or workshop identifier (letters/symbols) that points to who made it.
- Assay/office mark: in some countries, additional symbols indicate third-party testing/assay.
A purity stamp is helpful — but it’s not a lab certificate. It’s one data point, and it should match the quality of craftsmanship and the seller’s documentation.
3. Where to Look for Gold Stamps on Jewelry
- Rings: inside the band (near the bottom or beside sizing beads)
- Necklaces: on the clasp, a small tag near the clasp, or the bail on pendants
- Bracelets: on the clasp or inside the end caps
- Earrings: on the post (tiny) or on the back/butterfly
4. What Gold Stamps Can (and Can’t) Tell You
What stamps are good for
- Identifying the claimed gold content (e.g.,
585≈ 14k) - Helping you match metals when mixing pieces (14k with 14k, etc.)
- Supporting resale/insurance documentation when paired with receipts or appraisals
What stamps can’t guarantee
- That the piece is authentic (stamps can be faked or misapplied)
- What alloy metals are included (important for sensitive skin and white gold color)
- How thick a gold layer is, if the piece is plated or vermeil (those have different marking conventions)
5. What If Your Jewelry Has No Stamp?
No stamp doesn’t automatically mean “not gold.” Some reasons you might not see a mark:
- Wear: marks can fade over time, especially on thin bands.
- Size/space: very small items (thin chains, tiny earring posts) may not have room.
- Custom work or repairs: resizing or repairs can remove or distort marks.
- Older or imported pieces: marking rules and habits vary by place and era.
If you need certainty (for insurance, gifting, resale, or peace of mind), consider a professional test from a reputable jeweler.
6. How to Confirm Gold Purity (Safest Options First)
- Ask for documentation: receipt, appraisal, or seller specs with metal details.
- Jeweler testing: many jewelers can use non-destructive testing (like XRF) or controlled testing methods.
- Be cautious with at-home tests: some tests can scratch or permanently mark jewelry, especially pieces with stones.
Tip for set jewelry (jade, diamonds, etc.): Avoid experimenting with chemicals or abrasives near stones and settings. If the piece matters to you, let a professional handle testing.
7. FAQs: Gold Hallmarks & Stamps
What does 585 mean on gold?
585 typically means the piece is 14k gold (58.5% pure gold).
What does 750 mean on gold?
750 typically means the piece is 18k gold (75% pure gold).
What does 916 mean on gold?
916 typically means the piece is 22k gold (91.6% pure gold).
Is “14K” the same as “585”?
Yes. 14K and 585 generally refer to the same gold purity.
Do all real gold pieces have a stamp?
No. Many do, but not all. Small items, older pieces, and repaired or resized jewelry may have missing or worn marks.
Those tiny numbers inside your jewelry can tell a big story — not just about gold content, but about how a piece will wear, how it will look over time, and what it’s worth to you. If you want an everyday fine-jewelry standard, 585 (14k) is a common, practical choice. If you want richer warmth, 750 (18k) may be your match. And if you’re drawn to high-purity traditions, 916 (22k) is beautifully golden — with its own considerations for softness.
If you’re ever unsure, a reputable jeweler can help you confirm what you have. And if you’re choosing a new piece — especially one that pairs gold with jade — we’re always happy to help you make sense of the details.