What Does 585 Gold Mean?
The small 585 mark on a chain is a material specification: the gold alloy contains 58.5% pure gold. It is a useful starting point when choosing jewellery. Read it alongside length, width and weight for a clearer picture of the piece.
585 gold in simple terms
585 / 1,000 = 58.5% pure gold
| Gold alloy | Pure gold content |
|---|---|
| 333 gold | 33.3% |
| 585 / 14K gold | 58.5% |
| 750 / 18K gold | 75% |
| 999 / 24K gold | approx. 99.9% |
Is 585 gold real gold?
Yes.
585 gold is real gold.
The number simply describes the proportion of pure gold contained within the alloy.
This is fundamentally different from gold-plated jewelry, where a layer of gold is applied to another base material.
Is 585 the same as 14K?
Essentially, yes.
European jewelry often communicates fineness in parts per thousand: 585.
Internationally, the karat system is commonly used: 14K.
Both describe the same general purity level.
Why isn't jewelry simply made from pure gold?
Pure gold is relatively soft.
For jewelry, gold is therefore combined with other metals to create an alloy with properties better suited to everyday wear and manufacturing.
14K / 585 gold combines a high real-gold content with characteristics that make it particularly interesting for jewelry designed to be worn regularly.
Why gold weight matters too
Purity is only part of the story.
Two chains can both be made from 14K gold while containing very different amounts of material.
Length, width, link construction, thickness and the clasp all affect the overall weight.
That is why we disclose the approximate weight of our NTHIRTYTHREE gold chains and bracelets.
It gives you another way to understand what you are buying.
The NTHIRTYTHREE Standard
14K / 585 GOLD
Our gold jewelry is made from a 585 gold alloy.
MADE IN ITALY
Our classic chains are crafted in our atelier in Vicenza, Italy.
GOLD WEIGHT DISCLOSED
Approximate weight is shown for individual chain variants.
CERTIFICATE INCLUDED
Our gold jewelry comes with an NTHIRTYTHREE jewelry box and certificate of authenticity.
In short
585 gold contains 58.5% pure gold and corresponds approximately to 14K gold.
When comparing gold jewelry, purity isn't the only useful number. Construction, dimensions, craftsmanship and actual weight matter too.
FAQ
Is 585 gold real gold?
Yes. 585 is a genuine gold alloy containing 58.5% pure gold.
How much pure gold is in 585 gold?
585 out of 1,000 parts are pure gold.
Is 585 gold the same as 14K?
585 gold corresponds approximately to 14 karat gold.
Where is NTHIRTYTHREE jewelry made?
Our classic 14K / 585 gold chains are crafted in our atelier in Vicenza, Italy.
Explore the collection
Related guides
Further reading on fineness: World Gold Council.