Hallmarking
Last updated | 25/08/2008
What the legislation does
This legislation controls the sale of gold, silver and platinum items providing protection for purchasers of these precious metals, the oldest form of consumer protection in the United Kingdom.
Lays down the definitions for descriptions applied to precious metals.All precious metal over a certain size must be marked with a hallmark, which identifies who made the article, what the precious metal content is, where it was hallmarked and when it was hallmarked.
In 1999 the Act was amended to reflect developments in the European Union. As a result the fineness symbol and date letter are now voluntary marks.
It is an offence to describe a precious metal as being gold, silver or platinum unless they are hallmarked or are specifically exempt.
Provides for recognition of international markings on gold, silver and platinum.
Hallmarking Notice
An approved explanatory hallmarking notice must be displayed for customers in premises where articles made of gold, silver or platinum are made, supplied, sold or exchanged etc. The notice and further advice is available from
The British Hallmarking Council Enforcement
Importers, manufacturers and retailers are regularly visited to ensure that relevant items are appropriately marked/described and required notices are displayed. Test purchases can be taken and submitted for analysis at Public Analyst or Assay Office.
Premises Affected
Manufacturers, importers and retailers. Markets and one day sales. Craft fairs and other outlets. Jewellers, gift shops, antiques/bric a brac.
Key Legislation
Hallmarking Act 1973
