Hallmarks

Hallmarks Through History: The Trusted Signs of Silver and Gold

Silver and gold have always inspired awe. Their unique brilliance and rarity set them apart, embedding them deeply into human civilization. Yet, beyond the glitter and prestige lies another element...

Early American Silversmith Hallmarks: Makers and Marks

In the world of antique silver, hallmarks are more than just decorative impressions—they are historical fingerprints. Yet for collectors, researchers, and jewelry enthusiasts alike, identifying ear...

Gold and Silver Purity Markings: Karats Explained

What Is a Karat? A karat (K or kt) is a unit of measurement used to describe the purity of gold. Pure gold is defined as 24 karats, meaning 24 out of 24 parts are gold—equivalent to 99.9% purity. S...

Understanding Antique Maker’s Marks

What Are Maker’s Marks? A maker’s mark is a stamp or engraving applied by the artisan, workshop, or company that crafted the jewelry. Unlike hallmarks—which are official government-issued marks con...

Hallmarks vs Identification Marks: What’s the Difference?

Why This Distinction Matters Not all marks stamped on jewelry are hallmarks. While both hallmarks and identification marks provide important clues about a piece, they serve different purposes. Mist...

French Jewelry Hallmarks Decoded: A Collector’s Guide

What Are French Jewelry Hallmarks? French jewelry has a rich legacy of regulation and craftsmanship. Unlike many other countries, France developed a highly detailed system of hallmarking that inclu...

British Hallmarks by City: Complete Guide

British hallmarks are legally required stamps that verify the purity of precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. These marks are applied by official assay offices across the UK and have bee...

British Hallmarks: How to Identify Genuine Antique Gold and Silver Jewelry

Why Hallmarks Matter In the world of antique and vintage jewelry, hallmarks are silent storytellers. Stamped into the surface of gold or silver, these tiny symbols unlock a wealth of information — ...

How to Identify Genuine Victorian Gold Rings

Victorian gold rings continue to captivate collectors, jewelry historians, and vintage lovers alike. With their intricate motifs, romantic symbolism, and superior craftsmanship, these treasures fro...