Is 990 the same as 99?

Yes. 990, 99, Chuk Kam all denote the same material — 99.0% gold. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.

How much is 990 worth?

Its melt value is the gold spot price × 0.990 × the weight in grams. Buyers then deduct roughly 5–15% for refining and margin, so a quoted buy-back price sits a little below that theoretical figure.

How do I confirm a 990 stamp is genuine?

Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density (19.21 g/cm³ for this alloy), scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

* Gold hallmark

The 990 hallmark: meaning, purity & value

99.0% gold. Common in Hong Kong and Mainland China bridal jewelry; the 'Chuk Kam' (足金, 'sufficient gold') designation historically refers to ≥99% gold.

Published May 30, 2026

Quick facts

Metal: Gold
Purity: 99.0%
Fineness: 990/1000
Common regions: China, Hong Kong
Density: 19.21 g/cm³
Melting point: 1064 °C
Standard: ISO 9202

Stamps that mean the same thing

This purity may be struck into jewelry as any of: 990 / 99 / Chuk Kam. The mark differs by country and era, but the metal content is identical.

What 990 tells you

99.0% gold. Common in Hong Kong and Mainland China bridal jewelry; the 'Chuk Kam' (足金, 'sufficient gold') designation historically refers to ≥99% gold.

How to value it

The melt value of a 990 piece is gold spot price × 0.990 × weight (g). A buyer typically deducts 5–15% for assay, refining, and margin, so the cash offer lands just under that figure. Stones and complex settings are usually excluded from the metal weight.

How to check it yourself

Examine the stamp under a 10× loupe — genuine marks are crisp and evenly struck, not doubled or smeared.
Confirm the mark reads 990 or an equivalent such as 99.
Weigh the piece and estimate its volume — the density should land near 19.21 g/cm³ for this alloy.
Photograph it in the Jewelry Identifier app to read the metal, hallmark, and any gemstones from the image.
For a binding result, have an assay office or gemological lab run an XRF purity test.

Sources

Hong Kong Trade Descriptions Ordinance Cap. 362

* Frequently asked

FAQ

Q. Is 990 the same as 99?: A. Yes. 990, 99, Chuk Kam all denote the same material — 99.0% gold. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.
Q. How much is 990 worth?: A. Its melt value is the gold spot price × 0.990 × the weight in grams. Buyers then deduct roughly 5–15% for refining and margin, so a quoted buy-back price sits a little below that theoretical figure.
Q. How do I confirm a 990 stamp is genuine?: A. Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density (19.21 g/cm³ for this alloy), scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

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