The value of gold jewelry can be estimated with a simple formula. We explain what the hallmarks mean, how to calculate and why buying prices are below the market price.
Open: Mon–Sat 10 am – 8 pm · Cäcilienstraße 13, Düsseldorf-Benrath
The pure material value of a gold item is based on three factors:
Weight in grams × fineness × price per gram of fine gold = material value
You can determine the weight with an accurate kitchen or letter scale (good enough for a first estimate). The fineness is shown by the hallmark stamped in the piece. You can find the current gold price per gram on any financial portal; it changes daily.
The number states the fine gold content in parts per thousand. 585 therefore means 585 out of 1000 parts are pure gold, i.e. 58.5 %.
| Hallmark | Carat | Fine gold content | Typical for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 333 | 8 ct | 33.3 % | Simple everyday jewelry, chains, rings |
| 375 | 9 ct | 37.5 % | Jewelry from the UK and Ireland |
| 585 | 14 ct | 58.5 % | Classic gold jewelry in Germany |
| 750 | 18 ct | 75.0 % | High-quality fine and designer jewelry |
| 900 / 916 | 21.6 / 22 ct | 90.0 / 91.6 % | Historic coins, Krugerrand, Middle Eastern jewelry |
| 999 | 24 ct | 99.9 % | Bars and bullion coins |
Suppose you have a 585 gold chain weighing 20 grams and the gold price is X euros per gram. The chain then contains 20 × 0.585 = 11.7 grams of fine gold. The material value is 11.7 × X euros. For a 750 ring weighing 8 grams it is 8 × 0.75 = 6 grams of fine gold.
Scrap gold has to be melted down at a refinery and processed back into pure gold. This involves costs for transport, insurance, refining and analysis. Reputable buyers therefore pay a price somewhat below the market price and tell you openly how much it is. Be wary of offers that only state a total price without breaking down weight and fineness.
On very old or small pieces the hallmark is sometimes missing or worn. We then test the fineness in our shop. Marks such as "GF" (gold filled), "RGP" (rolled gold plated) or "Doublé", however, mean the piece only has a thin layer of gold.
Want to know exactly? Simply bring your gold to us in Düsseldorf-Benrath. We weigh it in front of you and give you a transparent price. More under gold buying in Düsseldorf.
Briefly describe what you would like to sell, ideally with photos. We will get back to you promptly with an initial assessment. Prefer to talk? Call us: +49 176 72978883 (Mon–Sat 10 am – 8 pm)