Does 14K or 10K Gold Jewelry Need to Be Stamped?

When shopping for gold jewelry—whether it’s a chain, bracelet, or ring—you’ll often see markings like 10K, 14K, or 18K stamped on the piece. But what if there’s no stamp at all? Does that mean the jewelry isn’t real gold?

The answer is more nuanced than many people realize. Let’s break down what gold stamps really mean, when they’re required, and how to protect yourself as a buyer.

What Does a Gold Stamp Mean?

A stamp (also called a hallmark) indicates the claimed purity of the gold. Since pure gold is 24 karats, all other gold jewelry is an alloy—gold mixed with other metals for strength and durability.

Common gold stamps include:

• 10K (41.7% gold)

• 14K (58.3% gold)

• 18K (75% gold)

• 750 (18K expressed as parts per thousand)

• 585 / 583 (14K expressed numerically)

• 417 (10K)

You may also see additional markings such as:

• GP (gold plated)

• GF (gold filled)

• RGP (rolled gold plate)

These markings indicate that the gold layer is on the surface only—not solid gold throughout.

Is Gold Jewelry Legally Required to Be Stamped in the U.S.?

No—gold jewelry is not legally required to be stamped in the United States.

However, under FTC (Federal Trade Commission) guidelines, if a seller claims a specific karat purity (such as advertising a piece as “14K gold”), that claim must be accurate and not misleading.

Key points:

• Jewelry can be sold without a stamp

• If stamped or advertised with a karat value, it must meet that stated purity

• Misrepresenting gold content is illegal

• There is no longer a federal minimum karat requirement for calling something “gold,” as long as it’s truthfully described

What About Karat Tolerances?

Historically, small tolerances were allowed, but today reputable manufacturers aim to meet or exceed the stated karat value. You may see stamps like:

• 14KP (“plumb”), meaning the piece meets or exceeds 14K purity

While “plumb” markings still exist, they are no longer legally required and are mostly used as a quality signal.

Why Might Gold Jewelry Have No Stamp?

There are several legitimate reasons:

• The piece is very old or antique

• The jewelry is handmade or custom

• The stamp wore off over time

• The item is too small to stamp

• The seller chose not to mark it

That said, lack of a stamp does increase risk, especially when buying from private sellers or online marketplaces.

How Can You Verify Gold If There’s No Stamp?

If a piece isn’t stamped, you can still verify its gold content by:

• Having a professional jeweler test it

• Using XRF testing (non-destructive and highly accurate)

• Performing an acid test (commonly used, but destructive and requires care)

Reputable sellers will allow or encourage testing.

Can You Trust a Gold Stamp?

A stamp is helpful—but it’s not a guarantee by itself.

Best practices when buying gold jewelry:

• Buy from a reputable jeweler or retailer

• Ask about return policies

• Request testing if unsure

• Be cautious with private sellers unwilling to verify authenticity

Final Thoughts

Gold jewelry does not legally need to be stamped in the U.S., but when a stamp or karat claim is present, it must be truthful. A stamp is a useful guide—but your best protection is buying from a trusted seller and verifying when necessary.

Understanding how gold markings work helps you shop with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.