If you’ve ever picked up a piece of jewelry, flipped it over, and seen tiny numbers stamped inside the clasp or band, you’re in good company. Most people squint at them, shrug, and hope for the best. But those little markings actually tell you the entire story of what you’re wearing.
And since you’re here on the Azzallure blog, you deserve the inside scoop.
Let’s break it all down,clean, simple, and maybe even a little fun.
So… what do these numbers want from you?
Think of jewelry hallmarks like a secret language. Once you understand them, choosing between gold, silver, diamond settings, or travel-friendly pieces becomes way easier.
Let’s start with gold, because she’s the diva of all metals.
Gold purity marks (AU) you should actually know
AU999 , 24K Gold
This is as close as it gets to pure gold. Think rich, warm, almost buttery in color. It’s gorgeous but soft, so it’s not ideal for rings or detailed pieces. More common in coins, bangles, and pieces with simple silhouettes.
AU916 , 22K Gold
Deep, saturated yellow, loved especially in South Asia and the Middle East. Beautiful for traditional jewels, but still soft enough that jewelers keep designs simple.
AU750 , 18K Gold
Here’s the sweet spot. Luxurious, strong, and perfect for diamonds. This is the gold we use for Azzallure’s lab diamond and natural diamond collections, where elegance meets durability.
AU585 , 14K Gold
Great everyday option. Still gold, still beautiful, a little lighter in tone, and more forgiving if you’re tough on your jewelry.
AU417 , 10K Gold
The practical cousin. Very durable, but with much less pure gold. Good for budget-friendly pieces or items that take daily wear and tear. Silver purity marks worth knowing
Silver purity marks worth knowing
925 , Sterling Silver
This is the Beyoncé of silver: strong, reliable, and globally adored. It’s what you’ll find in Azzallure’s Lab Sapphires and Moissanites pieces. Silver on its own is too soft, but 925 strikes that perfect balance.
950 , Britannia Silver
A little softer, a little more premium, not as common.
800 / 835
Often found in vintage or European jewelry. Lower purity, still charming in its own way.
And then there’s gold-plated, vermeil, and all the shiny in-betweens
Not everything has to be pure gold to look stunning. You’ll also come across:
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Gold Plated (GP)
A thin layer of gold over another metal. -
Gold Vermeil
Sterling silver coated with a thicker layer of gold. It’s a great middle ground,affordable, elegant, and perfect for stylish travel jewelry. -
HGE / GEP
Heavy gold electroplate. Thicker plating, still not the same as solid gold.
These are fantastic for pieces you want to wear often but not worry about too much,vacations, brunches, beach days, you get it.
How do you choose the right metal?
Here’s what it really comes down to:
If you want something timeless, investment-worthy, and diamond-ready, go for AU750 (18K gold).
If you want something practical, bright, and easy to style anywhere in the world, 925 pieces are your best friend.
If you want both… you’re exactly our kind of woman.
Ready to explore?
If you’re in the mood for elegant 925 jewelry, take a stroll through our Lab Sapphires and Moissanites Collection,full of dreamy, travel-friendly pieces that shine anywhere.
If AU750 gold is calling your name, explore our Lab Diamond and Natural Diamond Collections ,crafted for women who love luxury without apology.
Your next signature jewel is already waiting at Azzallure.