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Hallmark field guide

What Does 916 Mean on Jewelry?

916 is commonly used for the approximately 91.6% gold proportion associated with 22-karat gold. Read the complete mark and the object together before drawing a conclusion.

Updated August 5, 2026Sources listed on page

22 of 24 karat parts is approximately 91.7%; conventions may display 916 or 916.7.

High gold proportion does not establish workmanship, origin, age, or total item value.

Common interpretation

About 91.6% gold; commonly described as 22 karat

Material category

Gold alloy

What the mark can suggest

916 is commonly used for the approximately 91.6% gold proportion associated with 22-karat gold.

What it does not prove

  • That all components share the same fineness
  • That the item was assayed by a recognized office
  • The accuracy or age of the stamp

What to check next

  1. 1Identify all accompanying marks and the likely marking system
  2. 2Check fasteners and repair areas separately
  3. 3Use testing rather than filing or acid experiments on important pieces

Frequently asked questions

Is 916 the same as 22K?

It is the common parts-per-thousand expression for the gold proportion associated with 22-karat gold.

Is 916 more valuable than 750?

It contains a higher claimed gold proportion by weight, but total value also depends on weight, construction, condition, gemstones, maker, and 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. 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

  2. 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

Continue your research

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