INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION MARKS

Since 1972 the UK has been a signatory to the International Convention on hallmarks. This means that UK Assay Offices can apply the common control mark which will then be recognised by all member countries in the convention. Conversely, convention hallmarks that have been applied in other member countries are recognised in the UK.

Some of The Assay Office marks of member countries of the Convention are illustrated below. The shield design around the Assay Office mark may vary according to whether the article is gold, silver, platinum or palladium. The key mark to look for is the Common Control Mark. The three other marks must also be present.

Sponsor's or Makers Mark

Common Control Marks

Examples of Assay Office Marks

United Kingdom

*The hallmark guarantees that the purity of the metal is at least that indicated by the fineness number.