A mark such as 585 or 916 states the gold content. It is an indication, but does not by itself prove that the piece is genuine.
What the number means
The fineness is stamped in thousandths: 999 (24 carat), 916 (22 carat), 750 (18 carat), 585 (14 carat), 375 (9 carat) and 333 (8 carat). So 585 stands for 58.5% pure gold. Internationally you'll also find carat markings such as 22K.
Hallmark glossary: what does it say?
Common stamps and their meaning, including marks that precisely do not indicate solid gold.
| Stamp | Meaning | Solid gold? |
|---|---|---|
| 999 · 24K | Fine gold (HAS), mostly bars & coins | ✓ yes |
| 916 · 22 Ayar | 22 carat, very common on Turkish jewellery | ✓ yes |
| 875 · 21 Ayar | 21 carat, common on Turkish jewellery | ✓ yes |
| 750 · 18K | 18 carat | ✓ yes |
| 585 · 14K | 14 carat | ✓ yes |
| 375 · 9K | 9 carat | ✓ yes |
| 333 · 8K | 8 carat | ✓ yes |
| 925 | Sterling silver, “925 gold” is only gold-plated silver | ✕ no |
| GP · GEP | Gold plated, thin gold layer on base metal | ✕ no |
| GF · Doublé | Gold filled, base-metal core | ✕ no |
| HGE · RGP | Electroplated or rolled-gold plated | ✕ no |
| PT · 950 · PD | Platinum or palladium, precious, but not gold | — |
Add-ons like GP, GF or HGE and 925 mean: not solid gold. If in doubt, we determine the exact content with the GOLDSCOPE SD.
Where to find the stamp
The stamp usually sits somewhere inconspicuous: inside the band on rings, at the clasp on chains, on the underside of bracelets, a loupe often helps. Next to it you'll frequently find a maker's or responsibility mark, and on Turkish jewellery an additional state hallmark (damga).
Mandatory? Not in Germany
In Germany, hallmarking is not required by law. So a missing stamp doesn't automatically mean it isn't gold, and conversely, a stamp that is present is no forgery-proof proof.
With us: tested non-destructively
Real certainty about authenticity, fineness and alloy comes only from a professional test, more reliable than any stamp. We test your jewellery non-destructively and advise you honestly.
With this X-ray fluorescence analyser (XRF) we determine authenticity and alloy contact-free and without any damage: in minutes, the exact content of gold, silver, platinum and palladium along with all alloy components, no acid, no scratches.