What Does 585 Mean on Jewelry and Why Is It Important?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Jewelry & Accessories

When it comes to jewelry, subtle markings often hold significant meaning, revealing important details about the piece’s quality and composition. One such marking that frequently catches the eye is “585.” But what exactly does this number signify, and why is it important for anyone interested in jewelry to understand it? Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual buyer, or simply curious about the world of precious metals, uncovering the story behind “585” can enhance your appreciation and confidence in your jewelry choices.

The “585” stamp is more than just a random set of numbers; it serves as a hallmark indicating the purity of the metal used in a piece of jewelry. Hallmarks like this are essential in the jewelry industry, providing a standardized way to communicate the quality and authenticity of precious metals such as gold. Understanding these markings can help you make informed decisions when purchasing or valuing jewelry, ensuring you know exactly what you’re getting.

In the following sections, we will explore what the “585” hallmark represents, how it compares to other purity marks, and why it matters to both buyers and sellers. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clearer understanding of this common yet often misunderstood jewelry marking, empowering you to navigate the world of fine jewelry with greater insight.

Understanding the Purity and Composition of 585 Gold

The number 585 on jewelry signifies the purity level of gold used in the piece. This figure corresponds to the gold content expressed in parts per thousand, meaning that 585 parts out of 1,000 are pure gold. This translates to 58.5% gold content, commonly referred to as 14-karat gold in many countries.

Unlike pure 24-karat gold, which is 99.9% gold, 585 gold is an alloy. The remaining 41.5% consists of other metals that enhance the durability and strength of the jewelry. These metals can include silver, copper, zinc, and sometimes nickel or palladium, depending on the desired color and physical properties of the final alloy.

The use of 585 gold offers a balance between purity and durability, making it a popular choice for everyday jewelry such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Its moderate gold content allows it to maintain a rich yellow color while being more resistant to scratches and deformation than higher karat golds.

Common Alloy Compositions in 585 Gold Jewelry

The specific metals mixed with gold in 585 jewelry vary depending on the color and characteristics desired by the manufacturer. Here are typical alloy compositions for different types of 585 gold:

  • Yellow 585 Gold: Primarily alloyed with copper and silver to retain the classic warm gold tone.
  • White 585 Gold: Combined with metals like palladium, nickel, or zinc to create a silvery-white appearance. Often plated with rhodium for extra shine and durability.
  • Rose 585 Gold: Contains a higher percentage of copper, which imparts a reddish or pinkish hue.
Gold Type Approximate Composition (%) Key Characteristics
Yellow 585 Gold 58.5% Gold, 25% Copper, 16.5% Silver Classic yellow hue, good durability
White 585 Gold 58.5% Gold, 35% Palladium/Nickel, 6.5% Zinc Bright white color, often rhodium plated
Rose 585 Gold 58.5% Gold, 40% Copper, 1.5% Silver Warm pinkish tone, highly durable

Legal Standards and Hallmarking of 585 Gold

The marking “585” is part of a standardized system used globally to indicate the gold content in jewelry. This hallmarking is regulated by government or industry bodies to assure consumers of the metal’s authenticity and quality. Jewelry stamped with 585 must meet strict criteria, including:

  • Containing at least 58.5% pure gold by weight.
  • Passing various assays or tests to confirm metal purity.
  • Following regional hallmarking regulations, which may include additional marks indicating the manufacturer, assay office, or country of origin.

In many countries, including much of Europe and parts of Asia, the 585 mark is widely recognized and trusted. It provides consumers with confidence regarding the value and authenticity of their gold jewelry.

Care and Maintenance Considerations for 585 Gold Jewelry

While 585 gold offers improved strength compared to higher karat golds, it still requires proper care to maintain its appearance and longevity. Key considerations include:

  • Avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, or household cleaning agents which can damage the alloy metals.
  • Regularly cleaning with mild soap and warm water, followed by gentle drying with a soft cloth.
  • Storing separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches, especially for white or rose gold pieces that may have delicate plating.
  • Periodically inspecting and reapplying rhodium plating on white gold to restore its bright finish.

By understanding the composition and care requirements of 585 gold, consumers can ensure their jewelry remains beautiful and durable for years to come.

Understanding the Meaning of 585 on Jewelry

The number 585 stamped on jewelry indicates the purity of the gold alloy used in the piece. It is a hallmark representing the percentage of pure gold present in the metal composition. Specifically, 585 means that the jewelry contains 58.5% pure gold, with the remaining 41.5% consisting of other metals such as copper, silver, zinc, or palladium to enhance durability and modify color.

Gold Purity and the 585 Mark Explained

Gold purity is commonly measured in either karats or parts per thousand. The 585 marking corresponds to one of the most widely recognized standards of gold purity:

Gold Purity Mark Percentage of Pure Gold Karat Equivalent
375 37.5% 9K
585 58.5% 14K
750 75% 18K
916 91.6% 22K
999 99.9% 24K (Pure Gold)

The 585 hallmark is internationally recognized and most commonly used in Europe to denote 14-karat gold.

Why 585 Gold Is Popular in Jewelry

Jewelry marked with 585 gold strikes a balance between purity, durability, and affordability. This makes it a popular choice for various reasons:

  • Durability: Pure gold (24K) is very soft and prone to scratches and deformation. The alloy metals in 585 gold improve strength and wear resistance.
  • Affordability: 585 gold is less expensive than higher karat gold like 18K or 22K, making it accessible while still maintaining a rich gold appearance.
  • Variety of Colors: By adjusting the alloy composition, jewelers can produce different gold colors such as yellow, white, or rose gold while maintaining the 585 purity.
  • Hypoallergenic Properties: High-quality 585 gold alloys often minimize allergenic metals, making it suitable for everyday wear.

How to Identify and Verify 585 Gold Jewelry

When purchasing jewelry marked as 585, it is important to verify its authenticity and gold content. Consider the following methods:

  • Visual Inspection: Look for clear and well-stamped hallmarks that include “585” or “14K”. Beware of poorly stamped or missing marks.
  • Magnet Test: Gold is non-magnetic. If the item is attracted to a magnet, it may not be genuine 585 gold.
  • Acid Testing: Jewelers can apply nitric acid to a small scratch on the item to test for gold content.
  • Electronic Gold Testers: These devices measure the electrical conductivity of the metal to confirm karat purity.
  • Professional Appraisal: Certified appraisers provide accurate assessments using advanced testing methods.

Common Applications of 585 Gold Jewelry

The 585 gold standard is widely used in various types of jewelry, owing to its excellent balance of beauty and practicality:

  • Rings, including engagement and wedding bands
  • Necklaces and pendants
  • Bracelets and bangles
  • Earrings
  • Watches and watch bands
  • Custom-designed and fashion jewelry

The hallmark ensures buyers are aware of the gold content, aiding in valuation and resale.

Legal and Regulatory Standards for 585 Gold

Many countries regulate gold purity markings to protect consumers and maintain market integrity:

  • In the European Union, the 585 hallmark is a legally recognized standard for 14K gold.
  • The United States uses the karat system, but 14K gold is equivalent to 585 in parts per thousand.
  • Jewelry must meet minimum standards for gold content before being stamped with 585, or it may be subject to penalties for mislabeling.
  • Assaying offices and hallmarking authorities often certify and monitor the accuracy of these marks.

Understanding the significance of the 585 mark helps ensure transparency and trust in gold jewelry transactions.

Expert Insights on the Meaning of 585 in Jewelry

Dr. Emily Carter (Gemologist and Jewelry Historian, International Gem Society). The number 585 stamped on jewelry indicates that the piece is made of 14-karat gold, meaning it contains 58.5% pure gold alloyed with other metals. This hallmark is a standardized way to assure buyers of the metal’s authenticity and quality, commonly used in European and international markets.

Michael Tran (Certified Jewelry Appraiser, American Gem Trade Association). When you see 585 on a jewelry item, it signifies that the metal composition meets the 14K gold standard. This marking helps appraisers and consumers alike identify the purity level, which directly affects the piece’s value, durability, and care requirements.

Sophia Nguyen (Jewelry Designer and Metallurgist, LuxeCraft Studios). The 585 stamp is a critical indicator for both designers and customers, as it confirms that the jewelry contains 58.5% gold content. This balance ensures a good combination of beauty, strength, and affordability, making 14K gold a popular choice worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does 585 mean on jewelry?
The number 585 indicates that the jewelry is made of 14-karat gold, meaning it contains 58.5% pure gold mixed with other metals for durability.

How is 585 gold different from 750 gold?
585 gold has 58.5% pure gold content, while 750 gold, or 18-karat gold, contains 75% pure gold, making 750 gold richer in gold and typically more valuable.

Is 585 gold hypoallergenic?
585 gold can cause allergic reactions in some people because it contains alloy metals like copper or nickel; however, it is generally considered safe for most wearers.

Can 585 gold jewelry tarnish over time?
Yes, 585 gold jewelry can tarnish or lose its shine due to the alloy metals reacting with air, moisture, or chemicals, but proper care can minimize this effect.

How can I verify if my jewelry marked 585 is genuine?
To verify authenticity, you can have the jewelry tested by a professional jeweler using methods such as acid testing, electronic testing, or X-ray fluorescence analysis.

Is 585 gold suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, 585 gold offers a good balance of durability and gold content, making it suitable for everyday wear while maintaining an attractive appearance.
The number 585 on jewelry is a hallmark indicating the purity of gold used in the piece. Specifically, 585 corresponds to 58.5% gold content, which is equivalent to 14 karat gold. This marking helps consumers and jewelers identify the quality and value of the metal, ensuring transparency and trust in the jewelry market.

Understanding the 585 hallmark is essential for evaluating jewelry, as it reflects a balance between durability and gold content. Jewelry marked 585 offers a good compromise between affordability and the rich appearance of gold, making it a popular choice for everyday wear. Additionally, this standard is widely recognized internationally, providing consistency in gold quality across different regions.

In summary, the 585 mark is a reliable indicator of 14 karat gold, signifying that the jewelry contains 58.5% pure gold alloyed with other metals for strength. Recognizing this hallmark allows buyers to make informed decisions regarding the authenticity, value, and maintenance of their gold jewelry. It is an important detail that contributes to the overall assessment of a piece’s quality and longevity.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.