Concerning the VII stamped on your gold necklace, that you believe is of Italian origin. The "VI" marking on gold Jewelry is a registration mark from Italy. The necklace was probably made in the province of Vicenza, in Italy. Vicenza is known as the "City of Gold". Vicenza is also recognised as one of the most famous historical and modern centres for gold craftsmanship in the world.
Concerning the gold content, the lowest legal gold fineness for an item to be officially sold and labeled as "gold" is 18 karats in Italy. 18K is 75% pure gold.
