Hallmarking
Hallmarking in the UK has a long history dating back 700 years. It represents one of the oldest forms of consumer protection. The purpose of Hallmarking back in 1300 was the same as it is now; it protects the consumer against fraud and the trader against unfair competition.
Under the UK Hallmarking Act it is illegal for any trader to sell or describe a precious metal article as gold, silver or platinum unless it is hallmarked. Hallmarks can only be applied by an Assay Office, of which there are four in the UK. Birmingham Assay Office has been carrying out the Statutory duty of Hallmarking since 1773 and hallmarks in excess of 10 million articles every year.
A hallmark means that the article has been independently tested and guarantees that it conforms to a legal standard of purity (fineness).
Today, the compulsory hallmark comprises three symbols. (1) The Sponsor’s Mark, that is unique to the trader responsible for submitting the article for hallmarking; (2) the fineness mark, in the case of 9ct that is 375, and (3) the Assay Office mark, in the case of Birmingham an Anchor.
Look for the Hallmark, it is your guarantee and provides rock solid assurance that the article you are purchasing has been independently tested by an Assay Office.
