Hallmarking

Trading Standards has the main responsibility for enforcing the Hallmarking Act 1973 which controls the selling of items described as gold, silver or platinum.

A hallmark is a series of small official marks applied to guarantee the purity and date of manufacture of articles made from these precious metals. Items are usually submitted for hallmarking by the manufacturer or importer and the controls are one of the oldest forms of trade and consumer protection.

In general , articles that are described as being wholly or partly made of gold, silver or platinum must bear appropriate hallmarks before they can be supplied or offered for supply. Unhallmarked articles cannot be described as being wholly or partly made of gold, silver or platinum.

In addition, an approved explanatory hallmarking notice must be displayed for customers in premises where articles made of gold, silver or platinum are being traded.

Any claims regarding articles made of precious metals will also be subject to the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 so, for example, even where hallmarking is not required articles must be accurately described.

Traders who fail to comply with these requirements are liable to be prosecuted.

If you are a consumer who wants specific advice on a hallmarking issue or are a County Durham business wanting guidance and advice on the law please call us on 0191 3833589.

More information can also be found on the British Hallmarking Council website.