In Singapore, a gold jewellery stamp such as 916 tells you the stated fineness, but the stamp alone does not prove that the piece was independently tested. To shop with more confidence, identify the marks, compare them with the product description and receipt, and ask the seller how the purity was checked. Singapore Assay Office (SAO) hallmarking is voluntary, so the absence of its mark is not by itself proof that a piece is not gold.
What do 916, 750 and 999 mean?
These numbers describe gold fineness in parts per thousand. A 916 mark represents 916 parts gold out of 1,000, commonly called 22 karat. A 750 mark represents 18 karat, while 999 indicates very high purity gold. The Singapore Assay Office identifies 999, 916, 22K and 750 among examples of standard marks in its hallmarking system. For a fuller comparison of how these purities affect jewellery choices, read our 916 vs 999 gold guide.
Fineness is one detail, not a complete buying decision. Design, weight, craftsmanship and the quoted price also matter. Our guide to comparing gold jewellery prices explains how to look at those details together.
Is a purity stamp the same as an assay hallmark?
No. A number such as 916 is a fineness marking. An independent assay hallmark indicates that an assay office has tested the jewellery under its scheme. The Singapore Bullion Market Association's account from the Singapore Assay Office describes the complete SAO set as the lion-head SAO mark, a standard mark and a jeweller's mark. The lion head identifies the assay office; the standard mark indicates fineness; the jeweller's mark identifies the responsible business.
The World Gold Council also distinguishes assay-office, fineness and maker marks, while noting that marking systems differ between countries. A piece bought in Singapore may have an overseas marking system. Avoid treating every unfamiliar symbol as an SAO mark.
Where should you look on jewellery?
On a ring, look at the inner band. On a chain or bracelet, check near the clasp, end tag or a small link beside it. A pendant may be marked on its reverse or bail. Marks can be tiny or worn, so good light and a magnifier help. Do not force a clasp or scratch a piece to find a mark; ask the seller to show you instead.
Read the whole marking rather than one isolated number. Note any letters or symbols beside the fineness mark, then compare what you see with the seller's written description. If a listing says 916 gold but the piece appears to be marked differently, pause and ask for clarification before paying. Some delicate pieces may have little room for a visible stamp, and Singapore's independent hallmarking scheme is voluntary. A missing or faint mark calls for a question, not an instant conclusion.
What a stamp cannot tell you
A stamped number is a useful starting point, but visual inspection cannot establish the metal composition throughout a piece. It does not tell you the weight, whether a hollow design is suitable for your use, or the final price. If purity is important to your purchase and documentation is unclear, ask what testing or certification supports the description. A professional jeweller or assay service can explain the appropriate test for the item; avoid improvised scratch or chemical tests at home, which could damage it.
For everyday wear, think beyond the mark to the clasp, thickness and how the piece sits on you. Our everyday gold jewellery guide covers those practical choices.
A short checklist before you buy
- Confirm the stated fineness: Ask whether the item is 916, 750, 999 or another specification, and check that the listing and receipt agree.
- Ask which marks are present: Distinguish a purity stamp from an independent assay-office hallmark. If a seller says it is SAO hallmarked, ask them to show the complete marking.
- Record the key details: Keep the receipt or invoice with the stated purity, weight, item description and any testing or hallmark information offered.
- Compare the full price: Include design or workmanship charges rather than judging a piece only by the fineness number. See today's gold price page for Guild Bullion's current displayed rates.
- Resolve uncertainties first: If the mark is unclear or the documentation conflicts, ask for a clear explanation before checkout.
Browse Guild Bullion's 916 gold collection and compare each product's current details. If you would like help reading a marking or choosing a piece, message us on WhatsApp. You can also visit at 810 Geylang Road #01-38, Singapore 409286: the shop is open Sunday 11am–6pm, and Monday–Saturday 11am–6pm by appointment.