You read gold jewelry by identifying the hallmark, usually a number followed by "k" (for karat) or "ct" (for carat), indicating the gold purity.
Understanding the marks on your gold jewelry is essential for determining its value and authenticity. These marks, often tiny and located in inconspicuous places, provide crucial information about the gold content and sometimes the manufacturer.
Understanding Karats and Gold Purity
The karat (K or ct) is a measure of the gold content in a piece of jewelry, expressed out of 24. Therefore:
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24K (or 24ct) Gold: This is pure gold (99.9% gold). Because it's very soft, it's rarely used in jewelry.
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18K (or 18ct) Gold: Contains 75% gold (18/24). It offers a good balance between purity and durability.
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14K (or 14ct) Gold: Contains 58.3% gold (14/24). This is a popular choice for jewelry because it's more durable than higher karat gold.
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10K (or 10ct) Gold: Contains 41.7% gold (10/24). This is the lowest karat gold allowed to be sold as "gold" in the United States.
Table: Karat Values and Gold Content
| Karat (K or ct) | Gold Content (%) |
|---|---|
| 24K | 99.9% |
| 18K | 75% |
| 14K | 58.3% |
| 10K | 41.7% |
Identifying Hallmarks
Look for small stamps or engravings, often found on the inside of rings, on clasps, or near the joints of bracelets and necklaces. These markings will indicate the karat value (e.g., 14K, 18ct).
Other Markings to Watch For
Besides the karat mark, you might also see:
- Manufacturer's Mark: A symbol or initials identifying the jewelry maker.
- Country of Origin: Indicating where the jewelry was manufactured.
- "GP" or "GF": These abbreviations stand for "Gold Plated" and "Gold Filled," respectively. These items contain a thin layer of gold over a base metal, not solid gold, so their value is considerably less.
Example
If you see a ring marked "14K," it indicates that the ring is made of 14-karat gold, containing 58.3% pure gold.
By carefully examining the hallmarks on your gold jewelry, you can determine its gold content and value. If unsure, consult a professional jeweler or appraiser.
