Hallmarked Silver Jewellery
When it comes to sterling silver, hallmarks count for everything. If a sterling silver piece is destined for commercial sale, it will typically be stamped with one or more hallmarks that show the manufacturer or silversmith’s mark, the purity of the silver itself, and sometimes additional information on the piece. And in certain countries, a national assayer’s office handles the testing and purity of silver objects. The hallmarking process is usually carried out before the silver piece receives its final polishing. This is because the hallmarks are applied using a hammer and punch, leaving sharp metal edges. Different countries use different hallmarks to classify their sterling silver, with the UK system representing one of the most sophisticated and information-rich in...