Understanding platinum hallmarks is key to appreciating the value and authenticity of your precious platinum jewelry and other items. Hallmarks, essentially, are official markings stamped on precious metal items, serving as a guarantee of their purity and quality.
In the UK, platinum hallmarking has been a standard practice since 1975, following the Hallmarking Act of 1973. That means that all platinum jewelry made in the UK after 1975 should include clear hallmarks to help you understand the characteristics of your piece.
Because knowing your hallmarks is the first step to understanding the value of your jewelry, this guide delves into the world of platinum hallmarks, helping you navigate their meanings and significance.
What hallmarks does platinum have?
Platinum hallmarks are more than just symbols; they are a story of authenticity and craftsmanship. Let's explore the hallmarks you'll find on platinum items, particularly in the UK, and understand what they signify.
Compulsory platinum hallmarks
In the UK, certain hallmarks on platinum jewelry are mandatory. These include:
Sponsor's mark
This unique stamp indicates the maker or company that submitted the item for hallmarking. It's a unique identifier, akin to an artist's signature on a painting, providing a traceable link back to the creator or manufacturer of the jewelry piece.
Fineness mark
This mark tells you the precious metal content, expressed in parts per thousand. For platinum, common fineness marks include 850, 900, 950, and 999, indicating the percentage of platinum in the alloy.
Assay Office mark
This symbol identifies which of the UK's four assay offices (London, Birmingham, Sheffield, or Edinburgh) tested and hallmarked the item. Each office has its own distinctive symbol, adding a geographical trace to the piece's history.
These compulsory hallmarks are crucial in determining the authenticity and purity of platinum jewelry.
Optional platinum hallmarks
Apart from the compulsory marks, there are optional hallmarks that can be found on platinum jewelry:
Traditional fineness symbol
Often an orb, this symbol is used for high-purity platinum items. It's a visual representation of the metal's quality, adding an extra layer of assurance about the piece's high platinum content, especially for items with 950 or 999 purity.
Date letter
This optional mark, not always present, indicates the year the item was hallmarked. It provides a historical context to the piece, making it particularly valuable for collectors and those interested in the provenance of their jewelry.
International Convention mark
This mark, recognized by member countries of the International Hallmarking Convention, signifies adherence to international standards. It assures the buyer of the item's quality and purity, regardless of where it was manufactured or purchased.
What if my platinum jewelry isn’t hallmarked?
Not all platinum jewelry will bear hallmarks, especially antique or vintage pieces. These items may feature old platinum hallmarks or none at all. This can make it tricky to, for instance, tell the difference between platinum and silver jewelry in some cases.
In such cases, a professional jeweler can help make an assessment of your platinum’s purity and authenticity. They’ll often simply use an XRF machine to test the metal's purity.
Similarly, platinum jewelry from outside the UK may not follow the same hallmarking standards.
Platinum hallmarks outside the UK
Globally, hallmarking standards for platinum vary. Although some countries ascribe to the international convention, application can be patchy. Before buying any platinum abroad, ensure that you first understand the hallmarking conventions and meanings in that specific market.
In the USA, for example, emphasis is often on the manufacturer's mark rather than purity marks, with pieces typically stamped "Pt" or "950" to indicate platinum content. However, this isn't always mandatory, making it crucial to purchase from reputable sellers.
When buying platinum jewelry, especially in the USA, verify the seller's credibility through reviews and their transparency in sourcing. Trusted sellers ensure the authenticity and ethical sourcing of their products, from rings to necklace chains, providing confidence in the quality of your purchase.
Shop pure platinum jewelry at 7879
At 7879, we pride ourselves on the authenticity and quality of our platinum jewelry. Each piece is hallmarked by the UK Assay Office and comes with a unique authenticity certificate, ensuring you receive only the finest quality.
Whether you're looking for elegant platinum rings, sophisticated bracelet chains, necklace chains, earrings, pendants, or cuffs, our collection offers unparalleled purity and craftsmanship.
Trust in 7879 for your platinum jewelry needs, where every piece tells a story of luxury and authenticity.