Flipped over a necklace clasp and spotted a tiny stamp you couldn’t decode? You’re not alone. Jewelry stamps can feel like secret messages only experts understand. But here’s the truth: they’re actually super helpful once you know what they mean. Let’s break them down and find out what’s really hiding in plain sight.
925
When you see “925” stamped on a ring or necklace, it means the piece is 92.5% pure silver. The rest is usually copper, added for strength. This is the global standard for sterling silver. If your jewelry has this mark, you’re holding something made to last and shine.
585
“585” might sound random, but it tells you the gold content — specifically, 58.5% pure gold. That makes it 14-karat gold, one of the most common types of fine jewelry. It balances durability and value, making it perfect for daily wear pieces like wedding bands or gold chains.
750
If you spot this mark, you’re looking at high-quality material that’s less likely to tarnish or irritate the skin. A “750” stamp signals 18-karat gold, which contains 75% pure gold. It’s richer in color and price compared to 14K and is often used in luxury pieces.
GF
“GF” stands for Gold-Filled, not Gold Fake. These pieces have a thick outer layer of gold over a base metal like brass. Unlike gold-plated jewelry, gold-filled items won’t wear off quickly and can last decades with care. This makes it a budget-friendly option that still brings the shine.
925 Italy
Seeing “925 Italy” means more than just sterling silver. It usually comes from Italian makers known for bold, artistic designs. While the silver content is the same as any other 925, the craftsmanship makes these pieces more collectible and sometimes more expensive.
HGE Or HGP
If you spot “HGE” (Heavy Gold Electroplate) or “HGP” (Heavy Gold Plate), it’s not solid gold. It means that the item was electroplated with a layer of gold over another metal. These can look great initially, but wear down with time, especially if worn daily.
STER
Back in the day, “STER” or “STERLING” was the trusted stamp for sterling silver. You’ll often see it on vintage finds. It may not say “925,” but rest assured, it holds the same value and purity, just wrapped in a more classic label.
PLAT, PT, Or 950
A piece that says “PLAT,” “PT,” or even “950” means you’ve got platinum. It’s rare, hypoallergenic, and heavier than gold. The “950” means it’s 95% pure platinum, which is incredibly durable. This mark appears on fine rings and watches meant to last through generations.
CZ
Spot a “CZ” mark on your jewelry? That’s short for Cubic Zirconia. It’s a synthetic stone crafted to resemble diamonds but without the expense. It shines brightly and doesn’t pretend to be real. Think of it as a stylish, budget-conscious option that lets you shine without splurging.
KP
The letters “KP” after a karat number (like 14KP) mean “karat plumb.” That tells you the gold content is exactly what it says — no more, no less. It was introduced to avoid rounding up karat values, which is a sign of transparency and regulation in modern gold jewelry.
