Hallmark Logo — A Hallmark is a mark that is recorded in the objects made from precious metals as a guarantee of its purity. They are carved with a punch in the objects of gold, silver or platinum for a workshop or laboratory officially accredited for chemical purity Hallmark on metal samples. These marks are stamped in inconspicuous locations of the object and if that person has separate removable parts or as a lid, handles, etc., must be present in every part of noble metal.

The legislation differs between countries and different traditions but generally consists of a mark indicating the purity or quality of metal. This can be added others such as the manufacturer, the regulator and in countries like France and Britain for dating a piece. At present there is an effort to standardize regulations in different countries to help control and international trade.

While early control marks have been found in the fourth century Byzantine pieces, the first European legislation appeared in France with the Statute of Goldsmiths, 1260, promulgated by Etienne Bouleau, provost of Paris during the reign of Louis IX.

Also called Hallmark seal (hallmark in English) a small mark made ​​on the metal with a chisel or punch and serve to ensure its purity, tell the goldsmith or the official laboratory which did the analysis. Normally this small brand, is chopped into rings (recorded) in the back and in necklaces, bracelets, pins, etc.., Often marked on the closing backs or edges so as not to detract from the piece.

The Hallmark is mandatory for all noble metal pieces that must be sold as jewelry and consists of three tiny marks, the first tells us the purity of gold, for example 750 (750 mils), indicates that gold is 18 carats the second mark indicates the official laboratory which has been tested for its purity and the third mark is that of the craftsman, (to see the Hallmark, use a small 10-power magnification minimum) .In many cases, and in order to save state taxes, cost analysis and other costs, some parts are sold without contrast or just taking the contrast of the artisan. This in theory is not permitted by law, but in the event that the purchaser agrees in confidence with the seller, must require a small reduction in the price and would not hurt to have a “touchstone” for able to personally check the quality of the piece you have purchased.

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