A guide to buying 999 gold in Singapore!

Thinking about buying 999 gold but not sure where to start? There’s no one better to chat with than ANGELINA LAU, Group General Manager of SK Jewellery Group, one of Singapore’s leading pure gold jewellers. She shares her insights on what to know and how to choose your first pieces!

Not many people are familiar with 999 gold. What exactly is it and how is it different from regular gold?

The term 999 gold refers to gold that is 99.9 percent pure (often labelled “24k” or “pure gold”). Other gold jewellery can come in various forms depending on preference such as 10k, 14k, 18k or 22k. Each contains different percentages of gold mixed with alloys to provide strength, durability or colour.

Because of its purity, 999 gold carries exceptional intrinsic value and an unmatched radiant lustre. Treasured in Asian cultures for its auspiciousness and symbolism of prosperity, it is celebrated for its authenticity, timeless beauty and ability to preserve value across generations. While once seen as soft and delicate, advances in gold crafting techniques now make 999 gold jewellery hardier, more resilient and wearable, allowing it to remain both deeply meaningful and practical for modern lifestyles.

What makes 999 gold jewellery so special compared to regular machine-made gold pieces?

Crafting 999 gold jewellery is a treasured art form. SK Jewellery’s own Gold Legacy Collection is brought to life through eight ancient imperial techniques passed down for thousands of years: filigree, engraving, hammering, carving, enamelling, inlay, openwork and polishing. Each piece undergoes meticulous steps under the hands of master artisans, resulting in jewellery that is not only beautiful but heirloom-worthy, preserving history, artistry and cultural legacy.

You mentioned SK Jewellery’s new Gold Legacy collection. What inspired it?

The Gold Legacy Collection was inspired by the idea of “承古焕新” – carrying forward centuries-old artistry while giving it new life for today. We drew deeply from Chinese cultural heritage, where motifs like dragons, bamboo, butterflies and coins embody blessings, resilience and prosperity. At the same time, we revived traditional gold-making techniques such as filigree, enamel and mother-of-pearl inlays, once reserved for imperial treasures and reinterpreted them through modern design. The result is a collection that feels both timeless and current – jewellery that connects the wisdom of the past with the style and aspirations of a new generation.

What have been the most popular pieces from the collection?

The stars of the Gold Legacy Collection are the fusion pieces. They are exquisite designs that marry 999 pure gold with enamel, rosewood and mother-of-pearl. Pieces like the Rosewood Peony, Ebony Blossom Majesty and Butterfly Bloom necklaces captivate with their vibrant colours and textures, turning traditional gold into wearable art. Their popularity has soared even further with the cultural wave sparked by Netflix’s local hit, Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story, which reignited love for Peranakan elegance.

For those thinking of buying their first 999 gold piece, any tips on what to look for?

For first-time buyers, the best way to choose high quality 999 gold is to start with simple questions. What’s the purpose of the piece? Is it for daily wear, a milestone celebration or a keepsake for future generations? Always look for a reputable jeweller who provides certified purity, transparent pricing and dependable after-sales support such as trade-in or cleaning.

Consider longevity: will this design remain meaningful across time? Pay attention to symbolism: motifs like butterflies, peonies or coins aren’t just decorative – they carry blessings of joy and protection. And trust the feel factor: try it on, see how the glow of pure gold and accents like enamel or mother-of-pearl sit against your skin and choose what resonates with you. In the end, the best 999 gold is not only worn – it’s lived with, cherished and eventually passed down.

Is caring for 999 gold jewellery different from caring for regular gold pieces?

It’s really about handling the jewellery with a bit of mindfulness. Because pure gold is naturally softer, it’s best to remove pieces when doing sports, heavy lifting or anything that might cause knocks or scratches. Store each piece separately in a soft pouch to prevent rubbing, and clean it gently with mild soap, warm water and a soft cloth – no harsh chemicals or abrasive tools needed.

A quick check every so often helps too. If you notice dullness or fine scratches, SK Jewellery can clean or polish your piece to restore its glow. With simple care, 999 gold retains its radiant lustre and meaning, ready to be cherished for years to come.

Everyone’s talking about gold as an investment. What makes 999 gold a good option?

Whether it’s in bars or jewellery, 999 gold will always carry intrinsic value because of its purity. At SK Jewellery, we believe that its value goes beyond price charts. A good example is our recently launched Merlion Gold Bars, rolled out in commemoration of Singapore’s SG60. These bars aren’t just valuable for their gold content. They’re crafted with intrinsic details and meaningful storytelling, symbolising national pride and heritage. Many of our customers choose such pieces not only for their material worth but also as milestones or heirlooms, because they hold both financial and emotional significance.

What are the biggest myths about 999 gold you’d like to debunk?

A common misconception is that you can buy gold at a “discount”. In reality, gold is like money – its value is universal and follows global market prices. What varies is the craftsmanship and design premium, especially for more intricate pieces.

Another myth is that 999 gold is too soft to be worn. While pure gold is naturally more malleable, modern hard-gold techniques have made it far more durable and wearable than before.

A bit more about SK Jewellery!

SK Jewellery’s story began in 1991 with founder Lim Poon Soo, who started with a humble sundry goods shop but had had the ambition to create something greater through goldsmithing. After his passing, his children Mary, Peter and Daniel Lim carried his vision forward, with granddaughter Angelina Lau now continuing that journey.

From early beginnings in yellow gold, SK Jewellery expanded into diamonds and white gold, and later pioneered Singapore’s pure gold jewellery segment. “What sets us apart is our belief that jewellery should tell stories,” says Angelina. The brand focuses on symbolism and cultural heritage, pairing traditional craftsmanship with modern design to create “jewellery that carries both value and meaning”.

SK Jewellery
Locations around Singapore including The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, ION Orchard, Plaza Singapura and VivoCity.
6812 2828 | WhatsApp 8721 8633
enquiry@skjewellery.com | skjewellery.com | Gold Legacy Collection

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