What Do the Numbers on Jewelry Mean?

When you fall in love with a new piece of jewelry, you may have noticed the small numbers often discreetly stamped on the back, inside, or on the clasp. But what do the numbers on jewelry actually mean? At Viclara, we know how important it is to feel safe and well-informed when you invest in something as personal as jewelry. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand those small digits—and the big significance they hold.

Understanding Jewelry Stamping: A Symbol of Genuine Quality

Have you seen a small number like "925" inside your ring or on the clasp of a bracelet? These numbers are not random. They’re called fineness marks or purity stamps and show which precious metal the jewelry is made of, as well as its degree of purity.

What Does 925 Mean in Jewelry?

The number 925 refers to sterling silver, which consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals—most often copper. This mix makes silver more durable for everyday wear. When you see the 925 stamp in your jewelry, you can be sure it’s made from genuine silver and not just silver-plated metal.

The Codes of Gold: What Do 8K, 14K, and 18K Mean?

When it comes to gold jewelry, we typically see numbers like 333, 585, and 750—which correspond to 8, 14, and 18 karat respectively. These stamps indicate what percentage of the jewelry is pure gold.

• 8K (333): 33.3% pure gold—a budget-friendly choice for daily wear
• 14K (585): 58.5% pure gold—popular for its balance between durability and nobility
• 18K (750): 75% pure gold—a choice for those who desire luxury and high quality

At Viclara, we often recommend 18 karat gold for those who want a piece of jewelry with extra elegance and substance, for example from our Mads Z Crown collection.

Is the Jewelry Stamped? That’s Your Guarantee of Authenticity

Stamping in jewelry is far more than just a technical detail—it’s your security. In Denmark, it’s actually a legal requirement that jewelry made from precious metals is stamped with information about its content and manufacturer.

What Must a Genuine Stamped Piece of Jewelry Contain?

• Fineness stamp: For example, 925 for silver, 585 or 750 for gold
• Name stamp/manufacturer’s stamp: Identifies the responsible manufacturer
• Control stamp: Issued by the Precious Metal Control in specially controlled cases

These stamps make it possible to trace the jewelry’s origin and thus ensure both authenticity and compliance with national and international legislation.

Pearls, Diamonds, and Gemstones—Why Don’t You See a Number?

You will rarely find numeric stamps on the gemstones themselves in jewelry. This is because stamping relates to the metal. Information about a diamond’s carat, cut, clarity, and color is instead provided in accompanying certificates—especially when it comes to exclusive gemstone jewelry.

At Viclara, we ensure that our jewelry with gemstones—such as diamonds and sapphires—always comes with documentation confirming both quality and authenticity.

What If My Jewelry Doesn’t Have a Stamp?

This can certainly happen, especially with older or handmade jewelry where the stamp has worn off over time or is discreetly placed inside the setting. It may also be because the jewelry doesn’t contain enough precious metal to require stamping.

Are you unsure about the authenticity of a piece of jewelry? You are always welcome to contact us at Viclara. We are happy to help you assess the material and potential value of your jewelry—with respect for its history and the emotions behind it.

Security and Quality—When You Choose Viclara

When you shop at Viclara, you can be sure that:

• Your jewelry is properly stamped
• It meets Danish legislation and international standards
• And that it represents both high aesthetic and craftsmanship quality

We select each piece of jewelry with an eye for both design and durability—whether you’re looking for a gift, a symbolic piece, or a special reward for yourself. See, for example, our selection of 18K gold jewelry from Mads Z Crown, where elegance and authenticity are always in focus.

A Number With Great Significance

The next time you see a small number like 925 or 750 on a piece of jewelry, you now know it’s not just a detail—it’s your key to understanding the jewelry’s quality and authenticity. At Viclara, we believe that beauty begins with transparency and trust. For us, a number is not just technical information—it’s an important story about authenticity, craftsmanship, and value.

Welcome to a jewelry world where aesthetics and insight go hand in hand.