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” stamped on jewelry indicates that the piece is made of 14-karat gold. This number represents the purity of the gold—58.5 percent pure, to be exact. The remaining 41.5 percent consists of other metals, typically copper, silver, or nickel. This combination, known as an alloy, strengthens the gold and helps it maintain its shape, ensuring the jewelry lasts longer.

Pure gold, or 24-karat gold, is very soft and prone to bending or scratching, which makes it less practical for everyday wear. That is why 14-karat, or 585 gold, has become one of the most popular choices for jewelry that combines beauty, durability, and practicality.

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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.

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Italy 585 Jewelry – Why It’s Popular

You may have noticed jewelry marked as “Italy 585” while shopping. Italian-made gold is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship. The “Italy” indicates the piece was manufactured in Italy, while the “585” still denotes the gold purity—58.5 percent, or 14-karat gold.

Italian jewelers are widely respected for their precise work and elegant designs. When you see both “Italy” and “585” on a piece of jewelry, it usually signifies a creation that combines style, durability, and high-quality craftsmanship.

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 are looking for jewelry that is both durable and beautiful, 585 gold is an excellent choice. It is affordable, holds up well over time, and still offers the authentic feel of real gold.

Whether you are browsing earrings, trying on a new ring, or fastening a simple gold necklace, the 585 stamp indicates that the piece is crafted for everyday wear and long-lasting enjoyment.

Next time someone asks, “What does 585 mean on jewelry?” you will know exactly what to say. You might even help them make a smarter choice when shopping for gold.