What Does 585 Mean on Jewelry? A Complete Guide

If you have ever come across a piece of jewelry stamped with “585,” you might have wondered what it means. This number is not just a random marking; it holds essential information about the metal composition of the jewelry. Understanding these markings can help buyers and sellers determine the value, authenticity, and quality of their jewelry. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about 585 gold, including its composition, value, and how it compares to other gold types.

What Does 585 Mean on Jewelry

The “585” stamp on jewelry refers to the purity of gold in the piece. It represents 58.5% pure gold, with the remaining 41.5% consisting of other metals. This specific gold purity is known as 14-karat gold (14K).

In the jewelry industry, gold purity is measured in karats. The highest level of gold purity is 24K, which is 99.9% pure gold. However, pure gold is too soft for daily wear, so it is often mixed with other metals like silver, copper, or zinc to increase its durability.

Here is a comparison of different gold purity levels:

• 24K Gold – 99.9% pure gold
• 22K Gold – 91.7% pure gold
• 18K Gold – 75% pure gold
• 14K Gold (585 Gold) – 58.5% pure gold
• 10K Gold – 41.7% pure gold

Among these, 14K gold is widely popular due to its balance between purity, durability, and affordability.

Why is Gold Mixed with Other Metals?

Gold is a soft metal, which means that 24K gold can easily bend or get scratched. To make it more suitable for jewelry, it is alloyed with other metals. The mixture improves the jewelry’s strength, durability, and color variations. Here’s how different metal alloys impact 585 gold:

• Silver and Palladium – Create white gold
• Copper – Gives a reddish tone, creating rose gold
• Nickel and Zinc – Improve durability and strength

By altering the metal mix, jewelers can produce a variety of colors, making 585 gold versatile for different jewelry styles.

Is 585 Gold Real Gold?

Yes, 585 gold is real gold. Although it is not 100% pure, it still contains a significant amount of gold (58.5%). It is widely accepted in the jewelry market and is a common choice for engagement rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Many jewelry manufacturers use 585 gold because it offers the perfect balance between quality and durability.

585 Gold vs Other Gold Purities

To understand how 585 gold compares to other gold types, here is a breakdown of common gold purities:

Karat	Gold Percentage	Marking	Durability	Color Variations
24K	99.9%	999	Very soft	Bright yellow
22K	91.6%	916	Soft	Deep yellow
18K	75%	750	Moderate	Yellow, white, rose
14K	58.5%	585	Strong	Yellow, white, rose
10K	41.7%	417	Very strong	Yellow, white, rose

As seen in the table, 585 (14K) gold is a great balance between durability, gold content, and affordability.

How to Identify 585 Gold Jewelry?

There are several ways to confirm whether your jewelry is genuine 585 gold:

1. Look for the Stamp

Most genuine gold jewelry is stamped with a hallmark indicating its purity. You may find “585,” “14K,” or “14KT” engraved on the piece. Some European jewelry may also use “585” as a standard marking.

2. Use a Magnet Test

Gold is not magnetic. If your jewelry is attracted to a magnet, it is likely mixed with a high percentage of non-gold metals or may be fake.

3. Acid Testing

Jewelers use nitric acid to test the gold content. When a drop of acid is applied to the metal, different reactions help determine whether it is real gold and what purity level it holds.

To determine if your jewelry is made of 585 gold, look for stamps or hallmarks on the piece. These are usually found on the inside of rings, clasps of necklaces, or the back of earrings. The stamp may appear as:

• “585”
• “14K”
• “14KT”
• “14K P” (indicating plumb gold, meaning precisely 14K)

If you do not see a marking or are unsure, you can have your jewelry tested by a jeweler using a gold testing kit or an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) machine.

Does 585 Gold Tarnish?

585 gold is resistant to tarnish, but it is not completely immune. The presence of other metals in the alloy can cause slight discoloration over time, especially when exposed to chemicals, sweat, or humidity. However, proper care can keep your 14K gold jewelry looking new for years.

How to Care for 585 Gold Jewelry?

To maintain the shine and beauty of your 585 gold jewelry, follow these care tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water to clean your jewelry. A soft brush can help remove dirt and grime.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Chemicals found in perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products can damage gold. Always remove jewelry before using household cleaners.
• Store Properly: Keep your jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches.
• Polish Occasionally: Professional polishing can help maintain its shine and remove minor scratches.

Is 585 Gold Valuable?

Yes, 585 gold is valuable, but its worth depends on various factors such as weight, market gold prices, and craftsmanship. Since it contains 58.5% pure gold, its price is lower than 18K or 24K gold but still holds good resale value.

Gold prices fluctuate daily, so if you are looking to sell your 585 gold jewelry, check the latest market rates to ensure you get a fair deal.

Different Colors of 585 Gold

The color of 585 gold depends on the metals used in the alloy. The most common variations include:

• Yellow Gold – Made by mixing gold with silver and copper, giving it a warm yellow color.
• White Gold – Created by adding nickel, palladium, or zinc, resulting in a silvery-white appearance. Often plated with rhodium for extra shine.
• Rose Gold – Contains a higher copper content, giving it a pink or reddish hue.

Each color is purely aesthetic, and the durability remains the same regardless of color choice.

Should You Buy 585 Gold Jewelry?

585 gold is an excellent choice for those who want high-quality gold jewelry that is durable, affordable, and beautiful. It is ideal for:

• Everyday wear (rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings)
• Engagement rings and wedding bands
• Gift items

It provides a great balance between purity and practicality, making it one of the most popular choices in the jewelry market.

Conclusion

The “585” marking on jewelry indicates 14K gold, which is a popular choice for fine jewelry due to its balance of purity, durability, and affordability. Whether you are buying, selling, or simply curious about your jewelry, understanding this marking helps you make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About “585” Stamped on Jewelry

Q1. What Does 585 Stamped on Jewelry Mean?

The “585” stamp on jewelry indicates that the piece is made of 14-karat gold, meaning it contains 58.5% pure gold and 41.5% other metals like copper, silver, or zinc. This hallmark is commonly used in European countries and signifies a high-quality gold alloy that balances durability and value.

Q2. What Does 14K 585 Mean on Jewelry?

“14K 585” means that the jewelry is made of 14-karat gold, with “585” representing 58.5% pure gold content. The remaining 41.5% consists of other metals that add strength and enhance the jewelry’s durability. This marking is often found on rings, necklaces, and bracelets to confirm gold purity.

Q3. What Does 585 Italy Mean on Jewelry?

“585 Italy” on jewelry signifies that the piece is made of 14-karat gold (58.5% pure gold) and was manufactured in Italy. Italian gold jewelry is well-known for its craftsmanship and high standards, making “585 Italy” a sought-after mark in the jewelry market.