The marking “325” on jewelry refers to the purity of the gold used in the piece. This number indicates that the gold is 32.5% pure, or 8 karat gold.
Understanding Gold Purity
Gold purity is often measured in karats (k) or parts per thousand. Pure gold is 24 karats, meaning it is 100% gold. The marking system for gold purity can be understood as follows:
- 24 karat gold (24k): 100% pure gold
- 18 karat gold (18k): 75% pure gold (750 parts per thousand)
- 14 karat gold (14k): 58.5% pure gold (585 parts per thousand)
- 10 karat gold (10k): 41.7% pure gold (417 parts per thousand)
- 8 karat gold (8k): 32.5% pure gold (325 parts per thousand)
325 Mark on Jewelry
- 32.5% Pure Gold: The marking “325” means the jewelry is composed of 32.5% gold and 67.5% other metals (such as copper, silver, or nickel), which are added to increase the durability and hardness of the gold.
- 8 Karat Gold: This corresponds to 8 karat gold. While not as common in some regions (such as the United States, where 10k, 14k, and 18k are more prevalent), 8k gold is used in various countries around the world.
Characteristics of 8 Karat Gold
- Durability: Due to the higher percentage of alloyed metals, 8k gold is more durable and resistant to scratches and dents compared to higher karat golds.
- Color: The color of 8k gold will be less intense and more muted compared to higher karat gold, often appearing less yellow due to the lower gold content.
- Affordability: Jewelry made from 8k gold is generally more affordable than higher karat gold jewelry because of the lower gold content.
Conclusion
If you see “325” marked on a piece of jewelry, it signifies that the item is made of 8 karat gold, with a purity of 32.5%. This type of gold is durable and affordable, making it a practical choice for everyday wear while still containing a significant amount of gold.
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