14K gold and the hallmark standard (SI 299): what the numbers mean
14K gold means 585 parts per thousand of pure gold — 58.5% gold, the rest alloy metals. Pure gold (24K) is too soft for jewellery worn every day, so it is alloyed with other metals that give durability and colour.
| Karat | Fineness (parts per thousand) | Gold content |
|---|---|---|
| 24K | 999 | about 99.9% |
| 18K | 750 | 75.0% |
| 14K | 585 | 58.5% |
| 9K | 375 | 37.5% |
The Israeli standard SI 299
Gold jewellery in Israel is subject to the official standard SI 299 (ת״י 299). Under the standard, a piece normally carries a maker’s or importer’s mark and a fineness mark (for example 585 or 14K), as well as a Standards Institution verification mark, subject to the exemptions in the standard. Consumers may inspect the marking on the piece.
For details of the marking on a specific piece, contact us before ordering and we will check for you.
Gold on this site
- All jewellery on this site is 14K (585) gold.
- Two gold colours: yellow and white.
- White gold is rhodium-plated over white gold: the plating gives a bright white tone and may wear over the years.
- Yellow gold is not plated.
Read also: ring size guide · 14K gold jewellery.