The pennyweight is an old unit of measurement still used in jewelry making and by dentists for fillings. It is part of the troy measurement system and is equivalent to 1/20th of a troy ounce. It is approximately 1.5 grams in the metric system. The pennyweight is abbreviated dwt and is most commonly used in discussions of precious metals. Conversions to other units of measurement are readily available, but it is important to ensure they are done correctly for accurate monitoring and evaluation.
A pennyweight is an archaic unit of measurement that is still present in some applications, usually in jewelry making. Pennyweights can be used as a reference by other people who work with precious metals, such as dentists, who may choose to use them in dental fillings. The cent has been replaced in most other applications by units of measure such as those of the metric system, in the interest of using standardized measures.
This unit of weight is part of the troy measurement system inherited from the Romans, which includes the troy pound and the troy ounce. One cent under this system is equivalent to 1/20th of a troy ounce, or 24 grains. In the metric system of measurement, it is approximately 1.5 grams or 0.55 ounces in US customary units. People may notice that precious metals like gold and silver are sometimes sold in troy ounces, especially if they’re in the form of coins and mint blocks, but the troy pound is no longer in use.
Historically, the penny weight in Britain was pegged to this unit, hence the origin of the name. Modern pennies weigh more, however, and because units of currency represent abstract values rather than being of literal value, weight is not as critical, although coin weights are standardized for a number of other reasons. Since coins no longer have intrinsic value, the use of precious metals for coin production has also largely been abandoned, as it is no longer needed.
The pennyweight is abbreviated dwt, which might be confusing, but is related to the earlier Roman term for this unit of measurement. Pennyweights are most commonly used as a unit of measurement when people talk about precious metals, although jewelers are increasingly preferring units of measurement such as grams. Grams are considered to be more accurate and reliable, and because they are widely used, they are a convenient method of measurement.
When a weight is given in cents, a conversion is usually readily available. Seasoned professionals who work with weights and measures on a regular basis can sometimes even convert in their head for the convenience of clients. It can be useful to convert to enter the weights in a system of measurement with which you are familiar. It is important, however, to make sure that conversions are done correctly, such as when selling precious metals or turning parts over for repair work; making sure they are weighed correctly ensures they are properly monitored and evaluated.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
