What Does 585 Mean on Jewelry?

Breaking Down That Tiny Stamp on Your Favorite Piece

Ever spotted a tiny “585” stamped inside your necklace clasp or on the back of your earrings and wondered what it actually means? You’re not alone. This little number might seem random at first glance, but it carries real value—literally.

Let’s break it down.

So, What Is 585 Gold?

The “585” on jewelry means the piece is made of 14 karat gold. That number tells you the purity of the gold—58.5% pure gold, to be exact. The rest (41.5%) is a mix of other metals, usually things like copper, silver, or nickel. This mix, called an alloy, helps the gold hold its shape and last longer.

Why not use pure gold? Because it’s super soft. Try making a ring out of 24k gold, and it’ll bend or scratch easily. That’s why 585 gold has become one of the most popular choices for everyday jewelry.

Find Out: Best Jewelry for a Beach Wedding – Top Picks

Understanding the 585 Gold Stamp

That little 585 gold stamp you see on the inside of a ring band or under your bracelet clasp isn’t just for show. It’s an official mark that confirms the gold content of your piece. Jewelers stamp it in during manufacturing. It's how you know what you're really wearing.

When you see this stamp, you’re looking at 585 jewelry—pieces that blend durability with the rich look of gold. Think of it as a good balance between beauty and practicality.

Is 585 Jewelry Real Gold?

Yes, 100%. Even though it’s not pure 24k gold, 585 gold is still considered real gold. It's simply mixed with other metals to make it stronger. This kind of gold is common in earrings, bracelets, and even gold plated necklaces.

A bonus? 585 gold tends to have a softer gold hue than 10k, which contains even less gold, and it’s more affordable than 18k or 22k jewelry. That makes it a go-to for many jewelry lovers.

Know About: What Is the 10 Year Anniversary Gift? Unique Ideas

Italy 585 Jewelry – Why It’s Popular

You might have come across Italy 585 jewelry while shopping. Italian-made gold is known for its craftsmanship. The “Italy” part just means that the piece was made there. The “585” still refers to the gold purity.

Italian jewelers are often trusted for their designs and precise gold work. So if you see both “Italy” and “585” on a piece, it usually means you’re holding something both stylish and sturdy.

Where Do You Usually Find the 585 Stamp?

This stamp can appear in a few places depending on the piece. Here’s where to look:

• Rings – inside the band

• Necklaces – on the clasp

• Bracelets – near the lock

• Earrings – on the post or backing

Got a gold plated necklace and can't find a stamp? That’s because plated pieces often don't get the same stamp unless the base metal is gold-filled.

How Is 585 Gold Different From Other Gold Types?

Here’s a quick guide:

• 24k gold – 99.9% pure (softest, most expensive)

• 18k gold – 75% pure (richer yellow tone)

• 14k gold / 585 gold – 58.5% pure (durable and affordable)

• 10k gold – 41.7% pure (cheaper, but paler)

585 gold hits that sweet spot for many—it’s gold you can actually wear without stressing.

Should You Buy 585 Jewelry?

If you’re looking for jewelry that’s made to last but still looks beautiful, 585 jewelry is a smart pick. It won’t break the bank, holds up well over time, and still gives you that real gold feel.

Whether you’re browsing earrings, slipping on a new ring, or clasping that simple gold plated necklace, spotting the 585 stamp tells you the piece is built for both everyday wear and long-term love.

So next time someone asks, “What does 585 mean on jewelry?”—you’ll have the answer ready. And who knows, maybe you'll even help them shop smarter.