Do all items of jewellery have to bear hallmark?
Every country has its own legislation and standards of precious metals. For example, in some countries (Germany, Italy, Spain), the manufacturer strikes his own fines mark next to his makers mark and certain statutory organisations are allowed to conduct a random check of the integrity of any of the producers. The UK has had laws relating to the compulsory, independent hallmarking of Gold and Silver products for over 700 years. These laws have an impact on anyone importing or selling products within the UK. Products made from gold, silver and platinum have to be hallmarked before being described as such and placed on the market, unless they are exempt.
