Gold purity 375, 585, 750, 916 and 999: what the difference is
Gold purity is the number of grams of pure gold in 1000 grams of alloy. The rest is alloying metals: silver, copper and others. They make the piece stronger and define its shade.
- 375: 37.5% gold. The most affordable and durable of the common ones, with a lighter shade.
- 585: 58.5% gold. The most popular choice for everyday jewelry and wedding rings.
- 750: 75% gold. A rich color, pricier and softer than 585.
- 916: 91.6% gold. Often found in traditional jewelry.
- 999: 99.9% gold. A very soft metal, better suited to bars and investment than to wearing.
Which purity to choose
If you will wear the piece every day, for example a ring or a bracelet, 585 is the better choice: it handles wear well. For earrings and pendants, which are less exposed to mechanical stress, you can choose a higher purity.
About silver
Silver jewelry is most often 925: that is 92.5% silver. The rest is additives that make the metal stronger.
