fallback snapshot Aug 2, 2026 · current Gold API reference loads automatically
Sources and review: Reviewed by MeltOffer on . Reference price: Gold API XAU/USD. Unit factors: NIST precious-metals conversions. Karat terminology: FTC Jewelry Guides, 16 CFR § 23.3.
How to compare buyer quotes and published payout benchmarks.
12K gold value by weight
These server-rendered fallback values update with the same live or editable spot price and selected fineness as the calculator.
| Gross weight | Melt value |
|---|---|
| 1 gram | $65.00 |
| 5 grams | $325.02 |
| 10 grams | $650.04 |
| 20 grams | $1,300.08 |
| 31.1035 grams (1 ozt gross) | $2,021.85 |
| 100 grams | $6,500.39 |
What 12K gold is worth
12K gold is approximately 50.00% pure. Its melt value is weight in grams × 12/24 ÷ 31.1035 × the live gold price per troy ounce. The calculator applies that formula before showing buyer discounts.
Where 12K gold appears
Twelve karats out of 24 is exactly 50% gold by weight. Use the item's full net metal weight only when reliable identification shows it is composed throughout of 12K alloy; GF, RGP, or GEP marks require a different formula.
12K and .500 are the same mathematical fineness
NIST's Precious Metals Conversion Information lists 12K gold as 50% and one troy ounce as 31.1034768 grams. MeltOffer uses exact 12/24 purity and rounds the displayed conversion to 31.1035 grams. A .500 mark is a calculation clue, not proof of fineness or authenticity.
Read the whole mark: 12K versus 1/20 12K GF
A complete 1/20 12K GF mark describes a mechanically applied 12K-gold-alloy layer, not an item composed throughout of 12K alloy. Its fine-gold factor is 1/20 × 12/24 = .025; 12K's .500 factor is 20 times larger at the same eligible metal weight. Use the gold-filled value calculator for that mark.
Why this page says composed throughout instead of solid gold
The FTC consumer guide says solid gold means an item is not hollow. This page therefore says composed throughout of 12K alloy for the melt basis. Exclude stones, steel springs, and other non-gold components from usable metal weight.
Melt value is the negotiating yardstick
Jewelry buyers pay below melt to cover testing, refining, shipping, and margin. Compare every dollar quote with the melt value and get at least three offers before selling.
Frequently asked questions
How much is 12K gold worth per gram?
The live melt value per gram is gold spot ÷ 31.1035 × 12/24. The calculator updates that amount when the live feed loads.
What percentage of pure gold is 12K?
12K gold is approximately 50.00% pure gold; the balance is alloy metal.
What marks identify 12K gold?
Common marks include 12K, 12KT, 12 Kt., or 12 Karat; .500 is the exact numerical equivalent, not proof. A mark is a starting point rather than proof, so uncertain or valuable pieces should be tested without damaging them.
Will a buyer pay the full melt value?
A buyer usually will not pay the full melt value. Scrap-jewelry buyers deduct their costs and margin, so compare offers as a percentage of melt.
Is 12K gold real gold?
Yes, if its fineness is verified: 12K means 12 parts gold out of 24, or exactly 50% gold by weight. It is a gold alloy, not pure gold.
Does 500 mean 12K gold?
.500 is the exact numerical equivalent of 12K because both mean 50% gold. A .500 mark is a fineness claim, not proof of composition or authenticity.
Does 1/20 12K GF mean solid 12K gold?
No, that complete mark describes a gold-filled layer with a .025 fine-gold factor, not an item composed throughout of 12K alloy. Use the gold-filled calculator instead.
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