Solid, Plated, Filled or Vermeil
When purchasing jewellery, distinguishing between sterling silver, 9 carat gold, and the various forms of gold plating can be essential for informed decisions. Here’s how to identify the differences:
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is an alloy that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. To verify the authenticity of sterling silver, look for the following hallmarks:
925 Stamp: This indicates that the item is made of sterling silver.
Weight: Sterling silver feels substantial compared to plated items.
Hallmarked silver refers to silver objects that have been officially certified for quality and purity by an assay office. In the UK, there are specific legal requirements that govern the hallmarking of silver to ensure consumer protection and authenticity.
Legal Requirements for Hallmarked Silver
Purity Standards: Silver must meet a minimum purity standard to be hallmarked. For silver to be hallmarked, it must contain at least 92.5% pure silver, commonly referred to as sterling silver.
Hallmarking Process: The hallmarking process involves three essential steps:
Assay Testing: The silver item must be submitted to an assay office where a sample is tested for its silver content.
Application of Hallmark: Upon successful testing, the assay office will affix a hallmark to the item. This hallmark typically includes the following marks:
Sponsor's Mark: Identifies the maker.
Standard Mark: Indicates the purity of the metal.
Assay Office Mark: Denotes the office that carried out the assay.
Date Letter: Indicates the year the item was hallmarked.
Exemptions: Certain items may be exempt from hallmarking requirements, such as those weighing less than 7.78 grams or specific items like decorative objects or cutlery of a certain composition.
Consumer Protection: The hallmark serves as a guarantee of quality for consumers, ensuring they understand the metal content of the item they are purchasing. It is illegal to misrepresent the metal content, and those who do can face legal consequences.
Regulatory Framework: The Hallmarking Act 1973 lays out the legal framework for hallmarking in the UK, establishing the requirements and penalties for non-compliance.
Registration and Changes: Manufacturers and retailers must register their sponsor's mark with the relevant assay office. Any changes to the hallmarking details must also be reported to maintain compliance.
Understanding these requirements is crucial for anyone involved in the manufacturing, selling, or purchasing of silver items to ensure adherence to the law and protection of consumer rights.
9 Carat Gold
9 carat gold is composed of 37.5% pure gold mixed with other metals. Similar to sterling silver, the authenticity of 9 carat gold can be checked through:
Hallmark: Look for a hallmark that indicates the caratage, usually marked as “375” for 9 carat gold.
Colour and Feel: 9 carat gold generally has a more muted colour compared to higher carat gold and feels heavier than plated alternatives.
Gold Plating
Gold-plated jewellery is made by applying a thin layer of gold over a base metal. It is less durable than solid gold or even gold-filled. Check for:
Thickness: Gold plating often has a thickness of less than 0.5 microns. If the item is not marked, it is likely to be thinly plated.
Wear and Tear: Over time, plated items may show signs of wear, revealing the base metal underneath.
Gold-Filled
Gold-filled jewellery consists of a thick layer of gold (at least 1/20th of the item’s weight) mechanically bonded to a base metal. To identify:
Markings: Look for “GF” or the karatage followed by “gold filled” (e.g., “1/20 14K GF”).
Durability: Gold-filled items can resist tarnishing better than gold-plated pieces, making them a more durable option.
Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil is a high-quality form of gold plating that must meet specific standards to be considered genuine. It generally involves:
Thickness: Gold vermeil must have at least 2.5 microns of gold and be plated over sterling silver.
Marks: Similar to other types of jewellery, check for the gold content and the stamp indicating that it is gold vermeil.
By knowing these distinctions, you can make more informed choices when selecting jewellery, ensuring you invest in pieces that meet your expectations for quality and durability.want to launch a business.
All INGOT47 jewellery is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring both durability and elegance. Our collection features sterling silver, renowned for its timeless appeal and versatility. Additionally, we offer exquisite pieces made from 9 carat gold, known for its rich colour and lasting value.
We also specialise in mixed metal designs, which beautifully combine sterling silver and solid gold within a single piece. This unique approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also allows for a distinctive style that can complement any wardrobe. Each item is thoughtfully designed, reflecting our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
