United Kingdom
Britain's hallmark is a row of tiny stamps, struck only after independent testing, that certify who made a piece, how pure it is, and where it was assayed. It is the oldest consumer protection of its kind.
In the atlas: Hatton Garden · Birmingham Jewellery Quarter
Independent assay
Hallmarking began at Goldsmiths' Hall in London in 1300 — the source of the word itself. Four assay offices still test and strike every qualifying article.
Compulsory independent assay since 1300 — the world's oldest system.
One line, six marks
A worked example: a sterling-silver piece by maker MP, assayed in London. The first three marks are compulsory; the last three are optional.
What you'll see struck
Leopard's Head
Since 1300London Assay Office
The Goldsmiths' Company office, marking since 1300. Crowned until 1821, uncrowned since.
Anchor
Since 1773Birmingham Assay Office
Founded by Act of Parliament in 1773; said to derive from the Crown & Anchor tavern.
Rose
Rose since 1975Sheffield Assay Office
Also 1773. The town mark was a crown until 1975, then the Yorkshire rose.
Three-towered Castle
15th c.Edinburgh Assay Office
Scotland's office. The castle is the town mark; the standard symbol beside it is a lion rampant.
Lion Passant
Sterling silver (925)
A lion walking, facing left — the centuries-old English mark for sterling. Scotland uses a lion rampant.
Britannia
Britannia silver (958)
The seated figure of Britannia marks the higher 95.8% standard, introduced in 1697.
Crown
Gold standard symbol
The traditional English symbol for gold, struck beside the carat number.
Orb
Platinum standard symbol
An orb and cross marks platinum, struck since platinum hallmarking became compulsory in 1975.
Pallas Athena's Head
Palladium standard symbol
The helmeted head of Pallas Athena marks palladium, added in 2010.
Fineness
- Gold
- 375 (9ct) · 585 (14ct) · 750 (18ct) · 916 (22ct) · 999
- Silver
- 800 · 925 (sterling) · 958 (Britannia) · 999
- Platinum
- 850 · 900 · 950 · 999
- Palladium
- 500 · 950 · 999
Hallmark Calculator
See how United Kingdom's standards line up with any other country — translate a grade, or compare side by side.
- London Assay Office — What is a hallmark?
- Antiques Trade Gazette — Silver hallmarks
- The Silver Society — Identifying silver
A reference guide, not an authentication service. Marks vary by date and metal; consult the relevant assay office or standards body for definitive identification.