What is the Quality of Portuguese Gold?

The so-called "Portuguese Gold" is 19.2 karats, which corresponds to 800 millesimal fineness that is, 800 parts of pure gold for every 1000 parts of metal. Although it is frequently associated with high quality, it is not pure gold. Pure gold is 24 karats (999 millesimal fineness) and is rarely used in jewelry pieces because it is too soft for daily use.

Many people wonder if Portuguese gold is better or what its quality truly is. To understand this issue, it is important to realize how the composition of gold used in jewelry works.

In Portugal, the gold traditionally used in jewelry is 19.2-karat gold (800 millesimal fineness), considered one of the highest quality standards in Europe. Although it is technically possible to manufacture pieces in 22 karats, this type of gold is uncommon in European jewelry.

All gold pieces marketed in Portugal must pass through the Contrastaria da Casa da Moeda (Mint Assay Office), where they receive an official mark (hallmark) that certifies the authenticity and quality of the metal.

3 Marks on a Gold Ring

This small mark, which can be seen through a magnifying glass, features different symbols and numbering. The mark is applied based on an analysis performed, taking into account the type and quality of the metal. A second mark is placed by the manufacturer of the piece itself. In certain cases, a third and fourth mark may exist.

The Different Karats of Gold in Portugal

Pure gold is 24 karats, meaning it has 999 millesimal fineness of purity. This quality can be found in some gold bars and commemorative coins. Pure gold (24 karats) is not a good choice of material for molding, working, or using when constructing jewelry pieces.

In Portugal, for applications in jewelry pieces, the 19.2-karat gold alloy (800 millesimal fineness) has always been used. This means that a piece consists of an alloy of 80% gold, mixed with 20% other materials (usually silver and copper).

The mixture of gold with other materials forms an alloy that is suitable for working, molding, making durable jewelry, and even providing the desired shade. In general, for coins and gold bars, 22-karat and 24-karat gold are used, respectively.

At the end of the 19th century, 18-karat gold (750 millesimal fineness) and 14-karat gold (585 millesimal fineness) were permitted for use in watch cases, glasses, and lorgnettes.

At the end of the 20th century, in order to respond to the needs of the export market, the Assay Office began to allow 18-karat (750 fineness), 14-karat (585 fineness), and 9-karat gold (375 fineness) for export. With the entry into the European Union, these qualities of gold also began to be sold in Portugal.

Hallmarks on Gold in Portugal

Below we see two tables with the hallmarks for gold in Portugal. These marks are applied to genuine gold.

In 1985, the specific marking for white gold ceased to exist. Note that the symbol used was distinct for Portuguese Gold and for the so-called "gold for export." Gold for export was represented by a swallow, symbolizing the migrating bird.

From 1998 onwards, the possibility of selling gold of other qualities in Portugal was regulated, namely 18, 14, and 9 Karats. This change stems from treaties with the European Community. In 2021, the gold hallmark symbol changed to a ram's head.

The minimum quality of the different karats is established by National and European legislation. Before being placed in the trade network, the manufacturer must deliver their pieces to the Assay Office for verification and respective marking.

The color of a gold piece is not linked to its quality, but to the composition of its alloy. In the case of Rose Gold, for example, the piece possesses the usual 800 millesimal fineness of gold; however, there is a change in the alloy which includes more white materials, such as silver or platinum (light/white metals). It is the alloy that allows for the creation of pieces with distinct shades.

The Quality of Portuguese Gold

As previously mentioned, Portuguese Gold is 19.2 karats and is not 100% Pure Gold. Pure Gold is 24-karat gold. Because Portuguese Gold is 19.2 karats (800 millesimal fineness), it is described as being gold of superior quality. And this is true; the alloy contains 5% more gold when compared to international 18-karat gold (750 fineness).

Therefore, we can say that Portuguese Gold is superior.

In all locations authorized for the Sale and Purchase of Gold, the official chart of the Legal Marks of the Portuguese Assay Offices must be available to the public in a clearly visible place. A magnifying glass must also be available upon request. This way, whenever you wish, you can check the marks and be informed about what you are buying or selling. If you wish, you can stop by our agency and ask for the magnifying glass or any other clarifications you may need.

Our company buys used Gold, buys Silver, and buys prestigious brand Watches. Visit us for a free sales appraisal. We do not buy Palladium or Platinum. If you need to sell Gold, we pay in Cash on the Spot. Visit our agencies in Amadora, Almada, Benfica, Moscavide, Mem Martins, and Cascais – Sales evaluation is free.