Comparison
916 vs 999 Gold
The main difference is purity. 999 gold is nearly pure, while 916 gold is about 91.6% gold.
Quick answer
If two items have the same weight, the base metal value of 999 gold is higher because its purity multiplier is larger. But shop prices do not come from purity alone. Making charges, premium, buyback spread, design, item condition, and transaction terms can change the final number.
A more useful comparison is: same weight, different purity, then check extra costs. The tool below helps with the first reading before you evaluate shop prices or buyback value.
| Aspect | 916 gold | 999 gold |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | 0.916 | 0.999 |
| Common context | 22K jewellery | Bars, wafers, or selected investment gold |
| Base calculation | Spot SGD/g x 0.916 | Spot SGD/g x 0.999 |
| Limits | Making charges and design can affect actual price | Premium, spread, and platform can affect actual price |
When the 916 reading is more relevant
The 916 reading is most useful when valuing 22K jewellery, rings, bracelets, necklaces, or items that often include design cost. In this situation, the base metal value helps you understand the calculation floor, while actual price needs to be read with making charges and spread.
When the 999 reading is more relevant
The 999 reading is more suitable when valuing near-pure gold such as bars, wafers, or selected saved-gold products. Even though the base value is closer to spot, seller premiums, platform costs, and buyback terms still need checking.
What cannot be compared by purity alone
- Purchase and resale prices can differ because of spread.
- Jewellery can include making charges or design value that do not exist in base metal calculations.
- Item condition, receipt, brand, and sales channel can affect the final offer.
- Taxes or exemptions should be checked through official references when the transaction requires it.