Is HGE the same as HEAVY GOLD ELECTROPLATE?

Yes. HGE, HEAVY GOLD ELECTROPLATE, HGP all denote the same material — gold-plated. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.

How do I confirm a HGE 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, scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

* gold-plated hallmark

The HGE hallmark: meaning, purity & value

Heavy gold electroplate. Per FTC, plating ≥100 millionths of an inch (~2.5 microns) thick. Still surface coating, not solid gold.

Published May 30, 2026

Quick facts

Metal: gold-plated
Common regions: United States

Stamps that mean the same thing

This purity may be struck into jewelry as any of: HGE / HEAVY GOLD ELECTROPLATE / HGP. The mark differs by country and era, but the metal content is identical.

What HGE tells you

Heavy gold electroplate. Per FTC, plating ≥100 millionths of an inch (~2.5 microns) thick. Still surface coating, not solid gold.

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 HGE or an equivalent such as HEAVY GOLD ELECTROPLATE.
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

FTC Jewelry Guide 16 CFR Part 23.5

* Frequently asked

FAQ

Q. Is HGE the same as HEAVY GOLD ELECTROPLATE?: A. Yes. HGE, HEAVY GOLD ELECTROPLATE, HGP all denote the same material — gold-plated. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.
Q. How do I confirm a HGE 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, 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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