In Portugal, when people talk about “real gold”, they mean 19.2K gold, also known as 800-millesimal gold or Portuguese gold. It is part of our identity, the tradition of national goldsmithing, and a true investment designed to be passed down through generations.
At Arneiro 1969, a Portuguese goldsmith’s house for almost 60 years, 19.2K gold is at the heart of our history and of the way we create jewellery to last.
What is 19.2K gold?
19.2K gold is an alloy made of around 80% pure gold and 20% other metals (such as silver and copper), which give it strength and define its colour. Technically, it corresponds to 800 millesimal fineness and is the traditional standard of Portuguese goldsmithing.
24K gold – 999 millesimal, almost pure gold, too soft for everyday wear.
19.2K gold – 800 millesimal, traditional Portuguese gold, purer than 18K, with very intense colour and shine.
18K gold – 750 millesimal, international standard, a good balance between purity and durability.
Explore our 19.2K gold jewellery and discover how Portuguese gold comes to life in pieces designed for everyday wear.
Why is Portuguese gold so special?
19.2K gold stands out in three key dimensions: quality, tradition, and value.
Quality and purity: it contains more pure gold than 18K, resulting in a more intense shine and a warm, very distinctive colour.
Tradition: it is the reference fineness of Portuguese goldsmithing, present in iconic pieces such as Hearts of Viana, Viana beads, and filigree.
Value and durability: because it contains more gold, it is more highly valued on the market and keeps a good appearance and resistance in everyday use, ideal for heirloom pieces.
“19.2K gold is the meeting point between Portuguese tradition, quality, and durability. It is the natural choice for those who see jewellery as family heritage.”
Some of Arneiro 1969’s iconic collections featuring 19.2K gold pieces are:
- Lembrança Collection, inspired by Portuguese medals from the 1980s and 1990s, reinterpreted with a contemporary approach;
- Minhota Collection, inspired by Viana beads, a symbol of Minho tradition;
- Rosas Portuguesas Collection , featuring the design of the typical Portuguese Roses from Caramujo, with white flowers over enamel;
- Neobaroq Collection, inspired by baroque art.
19.2K gold vs. other gold alloys
| Type of gold | Gold Content | Mains Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | ~100% | Maximum purity, highly valued as a store of value. | Too soft for everyday jewellery. |
| 19,2K | ~80% (800‰) | Traditional Portuguese gold, intense shine, great durability, purer than 18K. | Higher price than 18K. |
| 18K | 75% (750‰) | International standard, good balance between strenght and purity. | Less pure gold than 19,2K. |
| 9/14K | 37,5–58,5% | More affordable, good resistance. | Lower value and less intense shine. |
19.2K gold as an investment for generations
When we talk about investing in Portuguese gold, we are talking about both financial and emotional value.
Value stability: 19.2K gold jewellery maintains a high intrinsic value, because it contains more gold per gram than lower-fineness alloys.
Emotional and material heritage: these are pieces that pass from grandparents and parents to children, full of history, memories, and relevant market value.
Reuse and sustainability: Portuguese gold can be melted, remodelled, and reimagined, accompanying several generations of the same family.
At Arneiro 1969 we believe that every piece in 19.2K Portuguese gold is a legacy – something to be worn today and passed on as an inheritance to tomorrow’s generations.
How to recognise 19.2K gold
Check the official hallmark (800-millesimal mark) on the piece.
Buy from certified and established jewellers, such as Arneiro 1969, in Sintra.
Always ask for information about the gold fineness, warranty, and certificate of the piece.
Get to know us better in Sintra and online at www.arneiro.com.
