Hallmarking

What is hallmarking?

Hallmarking in the Silver industry is a stamp engraved into the metal that identifies who made it, what it is made of, where it was made, and by whom.

The London Assay Office defines a hallmark as:

“A set of component marks applied to articles of the precious metals gold, silver, platinum or palladium.”

“Means that the article has been independently tested.”

“Guarantees that it conforms to all legal standards of purity (fineness).”

“Guarantees provenance by telling us where the piece was hallmarked, what the article is made from, and who sent the article for hallmarking. “

The standard hallmark formation is horizontal with minimal spacing between the marks.

Other formations of these hallmarks, often called "bespoke" or "display marks" are available.

In the UK, it is illegal to sell any item described as Gold, Silver, Platinum, or Palladium unless it is hallmarked.

The who (Sponsor mark)

Often, on the left side, and the first hallmark, these letters represent who is responsible for sending the item for hallmarking. This could be the maker, the wholesaler, or the retailer. It is a mark of who made it.

The what (Metal)

Next, there is often a sign of what the item is made of. It is usually a number that identifies the material. Sterling Silver is traditionally represented with a “925” to show 92.50% Silver content and 7.50% of other materials.

The where

This mark usually tells you which town or city it was manufactured.

The when

The final mark tells you which year it was manufactured.

Sources:

Hersey https://www.hersey.co.uk/pages/hallmarking

London Assay Office https://www.assayofficelondon.co.uk/