Ever noticed the neat, beautiful markings inside our fine jewellery? These aren’t just random they’re UK Hallmarks, the official symbols that verify the authenticity, and purity of precious metals. And yes, every Kimjoux piece that is sold in the UK proudly carries this seal of quality assurance.
But what is UK hallmarks, why does it matter, and how does the process work? Let’s dive in
What Is a UK Hallmark?
A hallmark provides an independent guarantee of precious metal purity of precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. The UK has one of the oldest hallmarking systems in the world, dating back to 1300, ensuring transparency and trust in fine jewellery.
Owning a UK-hallmarked piece ensures you have a verified item made from the exact metal purity stated, meeting the legal requirements of the Hallmarking Act 1973.
Why Does Hallmarking Matter?
When you’re investing in fine jewellery, confidence is everything.
- Proof of Authenticity: No misleading claims; the hallmark confirms the actual metal content.
- Legal Compliance: UK law requires gold, silver, platinum, and palladium to be hallmarked before being sold.
- Consumer Protection: Prevents fraud and ensures fair trading practices in the jewellery industry.
- Long-Term Assurance: Each jewellery is tested by UK hallmarks and you only receive the hallmark if your piece meets the strict legal standards for metal purity.
Kimjoux takes pride in using London Assay Office hallmarks, ensuring every piece meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and integrity.
Understanding the UK Hallmarks
A full UK hallmark is made up of small symbols: each with a distinct meaning. Together, they tell the story of your jewellery’s origin, purity, and certification.
Sponsor’s Mark: Think of this as the designer’s signature. It tells you who created or submitted the piece for hallmarking. (Kimjoux has its own registered stamp)
Metal Fineness Mark: A number (like 750 for 18k gold) that guarantees the exact precious metal content. No guesswork, just certified purity. (Compulsory)
Assay Office Mark: This symbol tells you where your piece was tested and officially hallmarked. In the UK, it could be London, Birmingham, Sheffield, or Edinburgh. (Kimjoux uses London Assay Office)
Date Mark: A letter that indicates the year your piece was hallmarked, like a hidden timestamp of its journey.
These subtle marks may be small in size, but they play a significant role in protecting buyers from counterfeit or misrepresented jewellery.
How Does UK Hallmarking Work?
Hallmarking is a meticulous, regulated process:
- Metal Testing: A sample is taken and analysed to determine its exact composition.
- Approval: If the metal meets the legal standard for purity, the Assay Office certifies it.
- Application of Hallmarks: The official marks are applied using laser or traditional punch.
Only after passing all stages does a piece receive its hallmark.
How to Check If Your Jewellery is Hallmarked?
Look inside your ring band or on the back of your pendant for small symbols.
If you’re unsure, ask a jeweller or an assay office to verify it.
Always confirm with the brand before purchasing if they can’t guarantee hallmarking, that’s a "red flag".
Looking for a piece that’s uniquely yours? We can help you to create one-of-a-kind fine jewellery that tells your story.
Book your consultation today and let’s bring your dream piece to life!
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