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Metal Purity Stamp Meanings
Metal purity stamps indicate the metal type and purity of the jewelry. They are among the most common jewelry markings and are typically required by law in many countries.
Silver Jewelry Stamp Meanings
Silver purity stamps often use a three-digit number to represent the percentage of pure silver without a decimal point, such as 925 for 92.5% silver. In addition to the numerical stamp, silver may be marked with terms like "Sterling," "STER," or "STG," which all indicate sterling silver. Common purity marks for silver include:
Mark | Meaning |
|---|---|
925 / .925 / S925 | 92.5% silver, known as sterling silver. These are the most recognized silver marks worldwide |
800 | 80% silver (common in European jewelry) |
958 | 95.8% silver, known as Britannia silver (mainly used in the UK) |
EP / EPNS / SP / SSP | Indicates silver-plated items, not solid silver |
Gold Jewelry Stamp Meanings
Gold purity marks may include the karatage (K or KT) and/or the percentage of pure gold without a decimal point (also known as the millesimal fineness). Additional stamps may include abbreviations like "YG" (yellow gold), "WG" (white gold), or "RG" (rose gold) to indicate the color alloy. Jewelry combining different gold colors may have dual stamps or abbreviations, such as 14K/18K or 14K W&Y (White and Yellow gold). Common gold stamp meanings include:
Mark | Meaning |
|---|---|
22K / 916 | 91.6% gold |
18K / 750 | 75% gold |
14K / 585 | 58.5% gold |
10K / 417 | 41.7% gold (minimum karat allowed to be called “solid gold” in the US) |
9K / 375 | 37.5% gold (common in UK, Australia, and European markets) |
P / KP | Plumb gold, meaning the gold's purity is at least the karat number indicated and may even be higher |
GF / RGP / GEP / EP / HGE | Indicates gold-filled or gold-plated items, not solid gold |
Vermeil / Sterling Vermeil | Indicates sterling silver coated with gold, not solid gold |
Platinum Jewelry Stamp Meanings
Platinum stamps indicate the percentage of pure platinum in a piece. In addition to the numerical stamp, platinum may be marked with terms like "Platinum," "PLAT," or "PT," which all indicate platinum. Common purity marks for platinum include:
Mark | Meaning |
|---|---|
950 / PT950 | 95% platinum, the standard for fine jewelry |
900 / PT900 | 90% platinum |
850 / PT850 | 85% platinum (minimum purity to be labeled “solid platinum” in the US) |
Maker's Mark Identification Symbols (Manufacturer or Designer Stamps)
A maker's mark is a stamp, symbol, logo, or set of initials that identifies the individual jeweler, brand, or manufacturer that created the jewelry piece. Historically, maker's marks were required by law in many countries to hold artisans accountable for the quality of their work. Today, they continue to serve as signatures of craftsmanship and authenticity. At Brilliant Earth, we use our lotus symbol as our maker’s mark.
Jewelry Stamps & Markings FAQ
What are jewelry stamps?
Jewelry stamps are markings or symbols engraved onto jewelry items to indicate important information about the piece's composition and origin. These stamps are usually found in inconspicuous places like the inside of rings, the backs of pendants, or on clasps of necklaces and bracelets. They typically provide details about:
- The metal purity (such as 925 for sterling silver or 14K for 14 karat gold)
- The manufacturer or designer of the piece
- The country of origin
These marks help authenticate the jewelry and confirm its precious metal content. They serve as a quality guarantee and are often required by law in many countries.
What is the 925 stamp on jewelry?
The "925" stamp indicates sterling silver, meaning the piece contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals. This is the international standard for sterling silver and ensures the piece has sufficient silver content to be durable while maintaining silver's desirable properties.
What does the diamond stamp inside of a ring mean?
A diamond stamp inside a ring typically indicates one of the following:
- The metal has been certified by a specific assay office (particularly in European systems)
- The ring contains a genuine diamond (sometimes accompanied by quality or carat specifications)
- In platinum hallmarking, a diamond-shaped stamp can indicate the piece is made of platinum
- Some manufacturers use a diamond symbol as their maker's mark
The exact meaning depends on context and accompanying marks.
What does the 750 jewelry mark mean?
The "750" mark indicates the metal contains 75% pure gold, equivalent to 18 karat gold. 18K gold is considered high-quality fine jewelry gold, balancing purity with durability.
What is the gold stamp on jewelry?
Gold stamps on jewelry indicate the purity of the gold content. Common gold stamps include:
- Numerical marks: 375 (9K), 417 (10K), 585 (14K), 750 (18K), 916 (22K), 999 (24K)
- Karat marks: 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, 24K
- Special process marks: GP (Gold Plated), GF (Gold Filled), HGE (Heavy Gold Electroplate), RGP (Rolled Gold Plate)
These stamps help indicate the quality and value of gold jewelry.
What does the 950 jewelry stamp mean?
Most commonly, the “950” stamp refers to platinum (typically marked as PT950 or PLAT950), meaning the item is made of 95% pure platinum with 5% other metals added for durability.
What does the 585 stamp on jewelry mean?
The "585" stamp indicates the metal contains 58.5% pure gold, equivalent to 14 karat gold. This is one of the most common gold standards worldwide, offering a good balance of gold content, durability, and value.
What is the platinum stamp on jewelry?
Platinum jewelry typically carries one of these stamps:
- “Platinum,” "PLAT," or "PT" - Indicates platinum
- "950PLAT" or "PT950" - Indicates 95% pure platinum (most common standard)
- "900PLAT" or "PT900" - Indicates 90% pure platinum
- "850PLAT" or "PT850" - Indicates 85% pure platinum (minimum purity to be labeled “solid platinum” in the US)
Platinum may also be marked with a diamond- or pentagon-shaped hallmark in some European countries.
What do 800 stamps on jewelry mean?
An "800" stamp indicates the metal contains 80% pure silver, with the remaining 20% being other metals. This standard was common throughout Continental Europe, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Italy during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While less pure than sterling silver (925), 800 silver was popular for its greater durability and lower cost, making it ideal for everyday objects and jewelry.
Can hallmarks be wrong or fake?
Yes, some counterfeit jewelry includes fake stamps. Always consult a jeweler for confirmation of the authenticity and value of your jewelry.
Is unmarked jewelry valuable?
Yes, some antique or artisan pieces may be valuable despite lacking stamps. The marks may have worn away with age or may not have been required at the time of production. Always consult a jeweler for confirmation of the authenticity and value of your jewelry.
Are jewelry stamps required by law?
Marking practices vary by country. New stamps also emerge over time as jewelry standards and materials evolve. While hallmarking is legally required in many countries, the United States does not mandate hallmarking. However, most U.S. jewelry still features a metal purity stamp and maker’s or manufacturer’s mark.
