How To Read Jewelry Marks

The number markings on precious gold jewelry are a bit of confusion to lots of people. We are generally used to seeing a karat or silver mark like this: 10K, 14K, 18K, Sterling, etc. The numbers mean the same thing.

For 14k the number is technically 583 but most manufacturers adopted the European way and make 14k gold a tiny bit over 14k, so the mark is 585 in most 14k jewelry. 18K is marked 750. If the mark is valid and there is a makers mark also in the jewelry, the number means these items are 18k gold.

Here is where the numbers come from. Pure gold is called 24 karat. For 18k gold, there are 18 parts of pure gold mixed with other metals to make the metal suitable for use in jewelry. 24k is too soft alone to stand up or to hold stones well. 18 parts pure gold divided by 24, or 18/24 equals 750. That is where the number comes from. The jewelry is 75% pure gold, 750 parts gold with 250 parts other metals out of "1000" parts. It is easier to think of it as a percent which is pure gold in the recipe.

Sterling silver is marked 925. Sterling is 92.5% pure silver and the rest is other metal, generally copper.
What does it mean if the ring marked 14K PR? The 14K simply means it is 14K (Karat) gold and because of the K means it would have been made in either South East Asia or The United States. The PR marks are just the Maker or Store ID or even a design mark, and have no relevence to the Value.

The basic decimal formula to work out the quality of gold content is quite simple, as they are all measured in 'Parts per Thousand.' This means that 9ct gold is calculated like this: 9 (for 9ct) is divided by pure gold (24) and then multiplied by 1000 (for pure gold as a decimal). ie: 9/24*1000=375 That 375 is the decimal quality for 9ct gold and is sometimes shown with a decimal point in front - .375

The old Victorian standard of 15ct gold is calculated the same way - 15/24*1000 = 625 (Not quite the numbers you have on your jewelry. Dental gold is 16ct or 666 recurring. But you can also reverse this formula by starting with the decimal and working back. ie: 375/1000*24 = 9

In your case we can use 698/1000*24 = almost 17ct
I have a platinum engagement ring and found a wedding ring that I really like but the band is made of palladium. Is it safe to wear these two metals together without one damaging the other?

It will wear the softer metal OVER TIME but that could take many years. My Grandmothers wedding ring eventually wore away the band of her engagement ring but it took over 20 years to do.

Platinum and Palladium and quite good together but I would take the advice of your local friendly jeweler and have them check both rings. Sometimes the Platinum may be a lower grade in order to make it harder - so have that checked.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for http://www.FashionJewelryStore.info. FashionJewelryStore.info carries the best selection of fashion jewelry, watches and fragrances on the market. Start looking for diamond jewelry here: http://www.FashionJewelryStore.info/stone/diamond.html.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Victor_Epand

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/567855

A Few Facts About Jewellery

By Adriana J Noton

Brilliant, romantic, absolutely priceless in terms of sentimental and historical value, jewellery has been popular in many countries for many generations. The different stones and different settings all have become popular status symbols as well as symbols of love and devotion.

Ranging from rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, wedding rings, engagement rings, bracelets, diamonds and precious stones, ornamentation has evolved into many different forms. The uses of jewellery can be either to commemorate a special event or relationship, or for simple ornamentation especially for women.

Diamonds, first discovered and mined in India, are a popular choice for engagement rings, and this dates back to the time of Maximillian's engagement and eventual marriage to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. Diamonds have been regarded as the most coveted natural gemstones in the world throughout the centuries since their discovery, due to their brilliant characteristics and pure, untouched quality. These gems have been regarded as a status symbol for many women and have been marketed over and over again as items of sentimental value.

Rings, usually worn around the fingers of the hands or toes of the feet, are ornamental decorations that have been accepted in both men and women. Wedding rings attest to love and devotion to marriage, but rings in general can be used for symbolizing a very special relationship or bond between two people.

Rings are also worn by single men and women as a stylish accessory to add to their wardrobe, and some young people try to make their own styles by wearing these on every finger to display individuality. Popular in many forms, rings are effectively manufactured with jewelled settings as well as plain, flat bands made of precious metals.

Bracelets and necklaces are usually worn for adornment by many women, and some men even like to wear these to emphasize a unique identity. These pieces are very popular during celebrations, special occasions, and other social events.

These pieces of accessory are usually worn to intentionally catch attention to the beauty of the wearer. Mainly popular in high society circles, large necklaces with expensive precious stones and diamonds are always given great emphasis and praise during gatherings.

Earrings, nose rings, and other types of pierced rings are not only in this category, but are also considered body modification since techniques of piercing are required for such pieces to be worn. The concept of beauty in this case, is in the eyes of the beholder or the culture from which it came.

Foot accessories such as anklets (ankle bracelets) and toe rings are also a popular choice by young people in this generation. Anklets and toe rings are given a more sexual connotation due to their unique placement on the foot that catches attention to the wearer's legs and feet.

Whether traditional or modern, jewellery has seen an evolution all on its own through the generations. From the time of ancient dwellers in Africa to the time of Kings and Queens in the European Renaissance Era, to today's modern, upscale young professionals in the business districts of many cities worldwide.
r>Jewellery has found its niche in history and will continue being popular and well worn all the way into the future. Regardless whether made of precious metal, jewels, rocks, wooden or plastic beads, they will always be a part of society's way of trying to stay beautiful and stylish for many generations to come.

About the Author: Find beautiful Engagement rings in Edmonton. Use the help of the Canada Jewelery Directory to find conflict free diamond Vancouver engagement rings that will leave your partner speechless.

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=622140&ca=Womens+Interest