The Encyclopedia · Metals & marks
750 and 585 marks
Fineness marks showing the gold content in parts per thousand: 750 for 18 karat, 585 for 14 karat.
Numerical fineness marks are used in Italy, Germany, Switzerland and much of Europe, and are often found beside national hallmarks on modern pieces. 916 indicates 22 karat and 375 indicates 9 karat.
What to look for
The fineness mark should agree with the country and period of the piece. A mark that only came into use later than the design deserves an explanation.
Related terms