Decoding the Mystery: What Does “585” Mean on Gold Jewelry?
The mark “585” stamped on a piece of gold jewelry is a hallmark indicating its gold purity. Specifically, “585” means that the jewelry is 58.5% pure gold. The remaining 41.5% consists of other metals, which are added to enhance durability, alter the color, and reduce the cost of the piece.
Understanding Gold Purity: Beyond the Numbers
When it comes to gold jewelry, understanding the numbers stamped on your favorite pieces can feel like deciphering a secret code. But don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think! These numbers, like “585,” are called hallmarks, and they are crucial indicators of gold purity. While 24K gold represents pure gold (99.9%), it’s incredibly soft and unsuitable for everyday wear. Therefore, gold is often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and modify its color.
The “585” hallmark signifies that your jewelry is 14 karat gold (14K). This means that out of 24 parts, 14 parts are pure gold, and 10 parts are other metals like silver, copper, zinc, or palladium. This combination strikes a balance between gold content, durability, and affordability, making 14K gold a popular choice worldwide.
The Karat System Explained
The karat system is the standard used to measure the purity of gold. It’s based on a scale where 24 karats (24K) represents 99.9% pure gold. Here’s a quick breakdown:
24K Gold: 99.9% pure gold. Very soft and malleable. Primarily used for investment gold (bars, coins) and not ideal for jewelry due to its susceptibility to scratches and bending.
22K Gold: 91.6% pure gold. Still quite soft but slightly more durable than 24K. Used in some high-end jewelry, particularly in Asian markets.
18K Gold: 75% pure gold. Offers a good balance of purity and durability. It’s a popular choice for fine jewelry and engagement rings. Stamped with “750”.
14K Gold: 58.5% pure gold. Excellent durability, making it ideal for everyday wear. It’s less expensive than higher karat gold. Stamped with “585”.
10K Gold: 41.7% pure gold. The most durable and affordable gold option. Commonly used in mass-produced jewelry. Stamped with “417”.
Why is Gold Alloyed with Other Metals?
As mentioned earlier, pure gold (24K) is too soft for most jewelry applications. Alloying gold with other metals serves several important purposes:
Increased Durability: Metals like silver, copper, and nickel add strength and hardness to gold, making it more resistant to scratches, dents, and bending.
Color Modification: The type and proportion of alloyed metals can alter the color of the gold. For example, adding more copper creates a rose gold hue, while adding white metals like palladium or nickel results in white gold.
Cost Reduction: Alloying gold reduces the overall gold content, making the jewelry more affordable for consumers.
Different Colors of 14K Gold
While the “585” hallmark indicates that the jewelry contains 58.5% pure gold, the color of the gold can vary depending on the specific alloy mix used. The most common colors of 14K gold are:
Yellow Gold: Typically alloyed with silver and copper to create a warm, yellow hue.
White Gold: Alloyed with white metals like palladium, nickel, or zinc and often rhodium plated to enhance its brightness and whiteness. Note: Nickel can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Rose Gold: Alloyed with a higher proportion of copper, giving it a pink or rose-colored tint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “585” Gold
Here are some common questions people ask about “585” gold jewelry:
Is “585” gold real gold?
Yes, “585” gold is real gold, but it’s not pure gold. It contains 58.5% pure gold, with the remaining 41.5% consisting of other metals.
Is “585” gold better than “417” gold (10K)?
In terms of gold content, “585” gold (14K) is better than “417” gold (10K) because it contains a higher percentage of pure gold (58.5% vs. 41.7%). However, 10K gold is more durable. The “better” choice depends on your priorities.
Will “585” gold tarnish?
“585” gold is less likely to tarnish than lower karat gold because it contains a higher percentage of gold, which is resistant to oxidation. However, the alloyed metals can still tarnish over time, especially if exposed to chemicals or moisture. Regular cleaning can prevent tarnishing.
Is “585” gold good for everyday wear?
Yes, “585” gold is excellent for everyday wear due to its good balance of gold content and durability. It’s less prone to scratches and dents compared to higher karat gold.
How can I clean “585” gold jewelry?
You can clean “585” gold jewelry with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish. You can also use a specialized jewelry cleaning solution.
Does “585” white gold need to be rhodium plated?
Yes, “585” white gold typically needs to be rhodium plated to achieve a bright, white finish. The rhodium plating is a thin layer of rhodium, a highly reflective metal, that enhances the whiteness and protects the underlying gold alloy. This plating can wear off over time and may need to be reapplied.
How can I tell if “585” gold is fake?
Several tests can help determine if “585” gold is fake. Look for the “585” hallmark. If there is no marking at all or the marking looks of poor quality, the item may be counterfeit. A scratch test can be performed in an inconspicuous place. The gold should not flake off easily. A magnet test can be performed as gold is not magnetic. If the item is attracted to a strong magnet, it is likely fake.
Is “585” gold hypoallergenic?
“585” gold is generally considered hypoallergenic, but it depends on the specific alloy used. If nickel is used in the alloy (particularly in white gold), it can cause allergic reactions in some people. Opting for nickel-free alloys (using palladium or other white metals) can minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
How does the price of “585” gold compare to other gold purities?
“585” gold is less expensive than 18K or 22K gold because it contains a lower percentage of pure gold. However, it’s typically more expensive than 10K gold.
Can I resize “585” gold rings?
Yes, “585” gold rings can be resized by a professional jeweler. The process involves cutting the ring, adding or removing gold, and then soldering it back together.
What does “585” mean if it’s followed by another letter or symbol?
The “585” marking indicates the gold purity only. Other letters or symbols that may appear alongside the “585” hallmark usually represent the manufacturer’s mark or country of origin.
Where can I buy authentic “585” gold jewelry?
Purchase “585” gold jewelry from reputable jewelers, authorized retailers, or trusted online marketplaces. Look for retailers with clear return policies and certifications of authenticity. Always inspect the jewelry for the “585” hallmark and quality craftsmanship.
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