Gold purity is the proportion of gold by weight. At 96.5% purity, 96.5 parts out of 100 are gold and the remainder is other metals used in the product. The Gold Traders Association describes 96.5% as the common standard for Thai gold jewellery; Thai gold bars are available in both 96.5% and 99.99% purities.
Why jewellery may use 96.5% gold
The association explains that 96.5% gold has hardness suited to shaping jewellery, while purer gold is softer. This is a material-property explanation, not a rule that every country or gold product must use one purity.
Does “international standard” always mean 99.99%?
No single figure applies to every gold product and market. LBMA Good Delivery rules set a minimum fineness of 995 parts per 1,000, or 99.5%, for gold bars that meet that specification for the London market. That is distinct from 99.99% gold and is not a universal jewellery standard.
- Thai jewellery commonly traded: 96.5%, according to the Gold Traders Association.
- Thai gold bars: 96.5% and 99.99% products are available.
- LBMA Good Delivery bars: minimum 99.5% under the cited specification.
Before comparing or selling products, check purity, weight, product type and the seller’s buy-back terms. This article explains standards; it is not investment advice or a recommendation to buy gold.
Sources
- Gold Traders Association: Gold bars and gold jewellery definitions
- Gold Traders Association: Gold properties and benefits
- LBMA: Good Delivery technical specifications
Source video: Why Thai gold is 96.5% pure
Related reading: Gold futures trading risks.