One of our most frequently asked questions is “What’s the difference between grams and pennyweight?

In short….nothing!

Grams and pennyweight are both units of measurement.

20 pennyweight (DWT) is equal to 31.1 grams (gm)

31.1 gm is equal to 20 dwt

20 dwt is equal to 1 Troy Ounce (OZT)

1 OZT is equal to 31.1 gm

See what I’m getting at here?

That which we call a necklace, by any other weight would weigh as much….(Shakespeare, sort of).

The troy ounce is the standard unit of measurement for precious metals: gold, silver, and platinum.

But, grams are more universally used as a unit of measurement, for, well, anything.

For example, you’re more likely to have grams on your kitchen scale than troy ounces or pennyweight.

But, pennyweight is often used because, well, it’s easier to calculate with troy ounces.

Let’s review…it’s been awhile…Remember when I said…

There are 20 DWT in 1 troy ounce.

And 31.1 grams in 1 troy ounce.

So, let’s say the market price of gold is $1000 today. That reflects what 1 Troy Ounce of pure gold is worth.

If you have 5 dwt of gold, you know that’s ¼ of a troy ounce—cause 20 divided by 5 = MATH.

(20 divided by 5 equals 4)

So, a ¼ of a troy ounce of pure gold is trading at $250 on the market. Easy.

But, you used your kitchen scale. It says you have 7.78 grams of gold. You might have to use your noodle (or a calculator) to quickly know you have ¼ of a troy ounce.

Cause 31.1 divided by 7.78 is…lots of numbers.

Still prefer grams because you like the challenge or have a calculator? Great!

Like to use pennyweight because math is hard and finding your calculator app is too time-consuming? Awesome-sauce.

There’s no difference in the final offer of your jewelry. We can use any unit of measurement you prefer—including pounds, kilos, or sticks of gum.

Your $100 necklace will still be a $100 necklace.

So, ignore the alternative facts. It’s really that simple.