The inscription ‘585’ found on jewelry signifies the gold content of the piece. It indicates that the item is composed of 58.5% pure gold, with the remaining 41.5% consisting of other metals, such as silver, copper, or zinc. For example, a ring stamped with ‘585’ contains more than half gold and less than half alloy.
This hallmark is crucial for accurately assessing the value and durability of jewelry. Higher gold content generally translates to a softer metal, making it more susceptible to scratches and wear. The presence of other metals in the alloy enhances the strength and resilience of the piece, making it more suitable for everyday wear. Historically, identifying the fineness of gold was essential for fair trade and consumer protection, ensuring that individuals received a product of the specified gold purity.