Understanding Hallmarking: Your Guide to Precious Metal Purity
When it comes to fine jewellery, hallmarking is more than a symbol — it’s a promise of authenticity. You may have heard the phrase “always buy hallmarked jewellery”, but what does that really mean? This guide explains what hallmarking is, why it matters, and how to identify a genuine hallmark when choosing your gold, platinum, or silver piece.
What Is a Hallmark?
A hallmark is an official stamp that certifies the purity of a precious metal. It confirms that a piece has been independently tested and meets the legal standard for its claimed metal content.
In the UK, hallmarking applies to gold, platinum, palladium, and silver jewellery, ensuring transparency and trust in every piece you buy.
Each hallmark typically includes three compulsory marks:
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Sponsor’s Mark — the registered mark of the maker or retailer who submitted the item for testing.
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Fineness Mark — the metal’s purity, shown in parts per thousand (for example, 750 for 18K gold, 585 for 14K gold).
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Assay Office Mark — identifies which Assay Office tested and hallmarked the jewellery. In the UK, there are four: London, Birmingham, Sheffield, and Edinburgh.
Some hallmarks may include optional symbols, such as traditional fineness icons or a date letter, indicating the year the item was marked.
Is Hallmarking a Legal Requirement?
Yes. Under the UK Hallmarking Act 1973, hallmarking is a legal requirement for all jewellery made with precious metals above a certain weight. The law protects both consumers and jewellers by guaranteeing that all marked items meet the correct purity standards.
Weight exemptions apply for small pieces:
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Gold and palladium under 1g
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Platinum under 0.5g
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Silver under 7.78g
Why Hallmarking Matters
Hallmarking is your assurance of metal purity and authenticity. It confirms that a piece contains exactly what it claims — protecting you from misrepresentation or under-purity.
Because fine jewellery is made from metal alloys, purity cannot be verified by appearance alone. Only an Assay Office can test and certify metal content. This independent verification protects both the maker and the customer, ensuring every purchase is honest and traceable.
What Is a Dealer’s Notice?
A Dealer’s Notice is a legally required document that explains the approved UK hallmarks. It must be displayed by all jewellers dealing in precious metals. The notice helps customers recognise each symbol and understand what the hallmark guarantees.
You can view our official Dealer's Notice here.
AtelierRings and Hallmarking
At AtelierRings, every piece is hallmarked by an official UK Assay Office, certifying the purity of our gold and platinum. This hallmark represents our commitment to transparency, integrity, and sustainable craftsmanship — ensuring that your ring is not only beautiful but also genuine and responsibly made.
Our Bespoke Creations
AtelierRing Expert Guide
AtelierRings crafts ethical, handcrafted fine jewellery in 18K gold and platinum, featuring natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and vibrant gemstones such as ruby, sapphire, aquamarine, and emerald. Explore our collections to find modern engagement rings, wedding bands, and custom diamond designs — where sustainable luxury meets timeless craftsmanship.