What does the UK hallmark mean?

 

The UK Hallmark Expained

The hallmark is part of a long tradition of quality craftsmanship in the UK. When I first registered my own initials it was exciting to think I would be a part of it too.

 

 

Here's my own hallmark on one of my wide silver rings. And while I'm sure you know it's a hallmark...do you know what it all means? And why it's so important? I have to admit, until I needed to, I had no idea!

Every item that is sold as precious metal in the UK must, legally, be hallmarked. The only exceptions to this are for items that fall beneath certain weight thresholds, which are 1g for gold, 7.78g for silver, 0.5g for platinum and 1g for palladium.

Most metals are alloyed (mixed) with other metals to increase workability, durability or wearability and it's impossible to tell by eye exactly what's in the metal. So the hallmark means your jewellery has been independently tested and that the metal conforms to all legal standards.

It's your guarantee, as a customer, that you are actually getting what you paid for!

So....what do all the symbols mean?

 

1 - The Maker's Mark

These are the initials chosen by the maker inside a shield shape. Each combination of initials and shield is unique. Mine are ACS - for Annabelle Clare Stevens.

 

2 - Traditional Fineness Symbol

Each symbol corresponds to a particular metal. This is an optional part of the hallmark, but is applied as standard by the London Assay Office. 

 

3 - Millesimal Fineness Mark

This shows the precious metal content of the article in parts per thousand. For example, sterling silver must contain at least 925 parts of pure silver per 1000. The shape of the shield indicates metal type - oval = silver, hexagon = gold etc.

 

4 - Assay Office Mark

This mark tells you which Assay Office tested the metal. The leopard symbol which indicates London, was introduced by Edward I and first used in 1300.

 

5 - Date Mark

Each year the font is changed, as well as the surrounding shield, and the stamp destroyed...So each year has its own totally unique letter.

I hallmark all pieces that legally require it - ie those that fall above the weight thresholds for each metal. I also hallmark all commissions regardless of weight. Small items such as my silver stacking rings can of course be hallmarked if you'd like them to be...just get in touch to discuss.

So...now you have the power to interpret all these symbols, go and see what you can find out about your own jewellery...xx