585 on Gold Jewelry Explained: Purity, Value and Meaning

If you’ve ever taken a closer look at your favorite gold ring or necklace and noticed a small “585” stamped on it, you might have wondered what it means. Many people wear gold jewelry every day without realizing those tiny numbers actually tell an important story about the piece’s quality, value, and authenticity.

In this guide, we’re going to explain exactly what the 585 stamp means on gold jewelry. You’ll learn how it connects to gold purity, how it affects the value of your jewelry, and why it’s especially important when purchasing meaningful items like a birthstone necklace, women’s earrings, or other birthstone jewelry. Whether you’re a jewelry lover, gift buyer, or simply curious, this blog will help you understand your jewelry better.

What Does 585 Mean on Gold Jewelry?

The number 585 refers to the purity level of gold used in a piece of jewelry. Specifically, it indicates that the item is made of 58.5 percent pure gold, with the remaining 41.5 percent made up of other metals such as copper, silver, or zinc. This mixture of metals is called a gold alloy.

The reason gold is often combined with other metals is that pure gold, also known as 24 karat gold, is very soft. It can easily bend, scratch, or lose its shape, making it less ideal for everyday wear. By mixing gold with stronger metals, jewelers create pieces that are more durable, more affordable, and more versatile.

So, when you see 585 on your jewelry, it means you have a piece that contains 14 karat gold, which offers a great balance between quality and practicality.

Is 585 Gold Real Gold?

Yes, 585 gold is definitely real gold. It simply means the gold content is 14 karats out of a possible 24. This level of purity is one of the most commonly used in fine jewelry, especially in countries like the United States and across Europe.

Although it has a lower gold content compared to 18 karat or 22 karat pieces, 585 gold is more durable and less likely to get scratched or dented. This makes it a popular choice for items that are worn often, such as engagement rings, bracelets, birthstone necklaces, or women’s earrings.

In fact, 14 karat gold is considered the ideal choice for jewelry that needs to look good and stand the test of time.

Where Is the 585 Stamp Usually Found?

You’ll often find the 585 stamp on less visible parts of your jewelry. It might be inside a ring band, near the clasp of a necklace, or on the back of an earring post. Along with the number, you might also see additional symbols such as the letters “AU” (the chemical symbol for gold), a brand logo, or a country stamp like “ITALY” or “GERMANY.”

These markings help confirm the authenticity of the piece and can also give you some insight into its origin.

If your birthstone necklace or pair of women’s earrings has a 585 stamp, it means you’re wearing genuine 14 karat gold.

Why 585 Gold is Ideal for Birthstone Jewelry

Birthstone jewelry is not just fashionable; it’s deeply personal. Each stone is tied to a birth month and often represents traits, emotions, or milestones. When paired with gold, especially 585 gold, birthstones become even more meaningful.

Take the June birthstone, for example. June has three recognized birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. A pearl birthstone necklace set in 14 karat gold offers timeless elegance, while moonstone adds a mystical, iridescent charm. Since these stones are softer compared to others, setting them in 585 gold provides a durable yet gentle frame that enhances their natural beauty without putting them at risk.

Similarly, women’s earrings that feature birthstones look beautiful and are often worn daily. Choosing 585 gold ensures that these earrings can withstand everyday activities without losing their shine or structure.

How 585 Compares to Other Gold Purities

When shopping for gold jewelry, you’ll come across different purity levels such as 10 karat, 18 karat, or even 22 karat. Here's how 585 gold stacks up against them.

Compared to 18 karat gold (which contains 75 percent pure gold), 585 gold is more affordable and more resistant to damage. It may not have the same rich yellow color as 18 karat gold, but it still has a beautiful, warm appearance and is far more practical for daily wear.

When compared to 10 karat gold, which only has 41.7 percent pure gold, 585 gold offers a much better balance between purity and durability. It feels more luxurious while still being strong and long-lasting.

And while 22 karat gold contains more gold, it is also softer and more prone to bending or scratching. That’s why 585 gold is often preferred for pieces that combine symbolism and wearability, like birthstone jewelry.

Can You Trust the 585 Stamp?

The 585 hallmark is internationally recognized and respected, but like all things valuable, it can be faked. Some sellers might try to pass off lower-quality jewelry as 14 karat gold by using fake stamps. That’s why it’s important to take a few extra steps to verify authenticity.

Always purchase jewelry from trusted jewelers who provide certification or a clear return policy. Reputable brands and retailers will clearly list the gold purity and the type of birthstone used in each piece. If you're shopping for something as special as a birthstone necklace or a pair of women’s earrings, it’s worth choosing a seller that guarantees quality.

If you already own a piece and want to confirm its gold content, a professional jeweler can perform a quick acid test or electronic analysis to verify if it's truly 585 gold.

Is 585 Gold Valuable?

Although it doesn't contain as much pure gold as 18 or 22 karat pieces, 585 gold still holds significant value. Its gold content gives it strong resale potential, especially when crafted into beautifully designed jewelry. In addition, the durability and widespread popularity of 14 karat gold mean that it retains demand in the market.

So, whether you’re buying a gift or building a personal collection, 585 gold is an excellent investment especially when it’s used in meaningful items like a June birthstone necklace or handcrafted birthstone jewelry designed to mark special moments.

How to Care for 585 Gold Jewelry

Even though 14 karat gold is more durable than higher-purity gold, proper care will help your jewelry last longer and retain its beauty.

Start by keeping your jewelry dry. Remove it before swimming, showering, or exercising. Store it in a soft cloth pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals found in perfumes, hairsprays, or cleaning agents.

When cleaning, use warm water, a few drops of mild soap, and a soft cloth. Gently wipe the jewelry and dry it thoroughly before storing. This routine will help preserve both the metal and the gemstones, especially delicate ones like pearl, which is often used in June birthstone jewelry.

Final Thoughts

The 585 stamp on gold jewelry is much more than just a number. It’s a sign of quality, durability, and genuine value. Knowing what it means allows you to make smarter choices when buying or caring for your jewelry.

Whether you’re picking out a gift, shopping for a special occasion, or adding to your personal collection, understanding the meaning behind 585 gives you confidence. It’s especially helpful when choosing personalized pieces like a birthstone necklace, a pair of elegant women’s earrings, or meaningful birthstone jewelry.

Choosing 585 gold means choosing real value. It offers the richness of gold, the strength of alloy metals, and the beauty of fine craftsmanship all in one. And when paired with the emotional depth of birthstones, it creates jewelry that’s not only stylish but also deeply personal.

If you're looking for something that lasts, shines, and tells a story, 585 gold jewelry is a choice you won’t regret.