I think i've seen that the number which appear after its slotted is the required level to equip/use the item +1
So an armoring or mod whatevers required level is 39 the number shown when its slotted in gear would be 40.
You are not alone alot of people have the same problem there are several threads about it in the customer support section of the forums. If you want to help you can look for the sticky and answer the questions that are in it.