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Hallmark field guide

What Does 585 Mean on Jewelry?

In a valid fineness mark, 585 means the alloy claims at least 585 parts gold per 1,000. It is the common parts-per-thousand standard associated with 14-karat gold. Read the complete mark and the object together before drawing a conclusion.

Updated August 5, 2026Sources listed on page

The rest of the alloy affects color, durability, and working properties.

A complete hallmark or quality disclosure can include other marks identifying the responsible business or assay system.

Common interpretation

58.5% gold; commonly described as 14 karat

Material category

Gold alloy

What the mark can suggest

In a valid fineness mark, 585 means the alloy claims at least 585 parts gold per 1,000. It is the common parts-per-thousand standard associated with 14-karat gold.

What it does not prove

  • That a stamp is genuine or correctly applied
  • That stones are natural, valuable, or even gemstones
  • The item’s maker, age, condition, or monetary value

What to check next

  1. 1Capture a sharp macro photo of every adjacent symbol and letter
  2. 2Inspect clasps, posts, backs, and soldered parts for differing marks
  3. 3Seek non-destructive testing when the metal claim is consequential

Frequently asked questions

Is 585 the same as 14K gold?

585 is the common parts-per-thousand fineness associated with 14-karat gold. It claims 58.5% gold in the alloy.

Can fake jewelry have a 585 stamp?

Yes. A stamp is evidence to investigate, not proof. Counterfeit, incomplete, and misleading marks are possible.

Does 585 tell me what the jewelry is worth?

No. Value also depends on verified weight, gemstones, condition, maker, provenance, and the relevant market.

Sources and further reading

This guide summarizes the official and institutional references below. Open the original source for its full scope, jurisdiction, definitions, and updates.

  1. UK Government / British Hallmarking Council

    Hallmarking: fineness guidance

    Official reference for recognized UK precious-metal fineness standards.

    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hallmarking-fineness-guidance

  2. UK Government

    Hallmarking is the law: guidance summary

    Explains compulsory elements of a UK hallmark and how fineness is expressed in parts per thousand.

    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hallmarking-guidance-notes/hallmarking-is-the-law-guidance-summary

  3. U.S. Federal Trade Commission

    Buying Platinum, Gold, and Silver Jewelry

    Consumer guidance on karat marks, silver fineness, plating, filled products, and maker marks.

    https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/buying-platinum-gold-and-silver-jewelry

Continue your research

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