What Does "18KT H.G.E" Mean When It Is Stamped on a Piece of Gold?
Last Updated Apr 3, 2020 6:18:01 AM ET

The stamp "18K HGE" on a piece of jewelry means that it is 18 karat gold with heavy gold electroplate. The "HGE" portion of the stamp means that it is heavy gold electroplate. Brass is another commonly used substance in jewelry.
All jewelry made from precious metals must be marked with a three-digit number, and sometimes other markings are also required. According to Foremost Jewelry, manufacturers often add the markings to the packaging or the tags instead of placing microstamps on small pieces. Gold plate jewelry also must be marked or stamped to certify the value of the metal. Some other markings that are used for gold electroplate jewelry are "GE," "EP," "GEP," "HE" and "HGE."
More From Reference

10 Must-Watch TED Talks That Have the Power to Change Your Life

Strange Americana: Does Video Footage of Bigfoot Really Exist?

How the COVID-19 Pandemic Will Change In-Person Retail Shopping in Lasting Ways

Tips and Tricks for Making Driveway Snow Removal Easier

Here’s How Online Games Like Prodigy Are Revolutionizing Education

What Are the Steps of Presidential Impeachment?