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WHAT IS A HALLMARK?

In the world of jewelry, hallmarks play an essential role in guaranteeing the authenticity and quality of precious metal jewelry, so it's important to know how to recognize them.

 

WHAT IS A HALLMARK? 

But first, what is a hallmark? It's an official mark engraved on precious metal jewelry and objects (gold, silver, platinum) to certify their purity/quality. In France, it is mandatory for any gold jewelry weighing more than 3 grams and any silver jewelry weighing more than 30 grams.

 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF HALLMARKS

1. Maker's marks: 

The maker's mark, applied by the artisan, is a lozenge containing the artisan's initials and a symbol defined by the artisan, guaranteeing artisanal authenticity.

2. State hallmarks: 

State hallmarks, or guarantee marks, certify the legal fineness of the precious metal. The most common in France are:

- Eagle's head: for 18-carat gold (750 parts per thousand).
- Saint Jacques shell: for 14-carat gold (585 parts per thousand).
- Clover: for 9-carat gold (375 parts per thousand).
- Minerva's head: for 925 parts per thousand silver.
- Dog's head: for 950 parts per thousand platinum.

3. Import hallmarks:

These hallmarks identify foreign jewelry and guarantee compliance with French standards.

4. European guarantee hallmarks

Used in Europe, they feature an animal's head and a number indicating the precious metal content.


WHY ARE HALLMARKS IMPORTANT? 

Hallmarks guarantee the authenticity of jewelry, reassure buyers, and prove the value of the precious metal. At Fremont Bijoutier, we guide you in choosing your 18-carat gold jewelry, with certified and hallmarked creations for your peace of mind.

 

HOW TO RECOGNIZE A HALLMARK? 

To identify a hallmark, it is recommended to use a magnifying glass. The hallmark is generally placed on a discreet part of the jewelry, such as the inside of a ring or the clasp of a necklace.

Knowing the different types of hallmarks is therefore essential to guarantee the quality and authenticity of your jewelry. At Fremont Bijoutier, we offer 18-carat gold jewelry bearing the regulatory hallmarks, a guarantee of quality and transparency.

If you wish to sell your gold, Fremont Bijoutier buys back your 9, 14, 18 or 22 carat gold in all forms at the best price. 

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