6/7/2026
585, 750, 999 — gold fineness explained
What do those numbers on your gold jewelry mean?
The number is parts per thousand of fine gold. 999 = 99.9% (bullion). 916 = 22 karat (Krugerrand). 750 = 18 karat (high-end jewelry). 585 = 14 karat (standard). 333 = 8 karat.
The remainder is alloy — silver, copper, palladium — defining hardness and color.
Pure gold is very soft. Jewelry needs an alloy or it bends in daily use.
The remainder is alloy — silver, copper, palladium — defining hardness and color.
Pure gold is very soft. Jewelry needs an alloy or it bends in daily use.
Zerin Gold Redaktion · 4 min