A stamp indicating the purity of the silver is called the assayers mark. The mark for silver meeting the sterling standard of purity is the Lion Passant, but there have been other variations over the years, most notably the mark indicating Britannia purity.

Should sterling silver have a hallmark UK?

UK law requires any sterling silver product over 7.78 grams in weight to be hallmarked by one of the four UK independent Assay Offices. A hallmark is not be to confused with a manufacturers 925 stamp. A UK hallmark must also be present by law, otherwise the product can not be legally sold as sterling silver!

How do you read sterling silver?

These are some of the most common:SterlingSterling silver925925/100092.5% pureLion passant, or a lion with one paw raised, for sterling made in England.Thistle mark, for sterling made in Scotland.Crowned harp, for sterling made in Ireland.

Does all sterling silver have a hallmark?

The vast majority of items made from sterling silver contain a quality mark, a stamp placed in a discreet spot that denotes its purity. These marks will say . 925 or 925 or S925 or sometimes Sterling. Along with the quality mark, a hallmark (the makers registered mark) must also be placed on the piece.

Can sterling silver not be marked?

Sterling silver must be at least 92.5% silver. US law does not require precious metal to be marked with a quality stamp. Some European countries do require marking. Many tourists in the US (and international online shoppers) will question goods sold without markings that indicate precious-metal quality.

What do the stamps on silver mean?

The stamping indicates who the silversmith is, the date of the manufacturer and other information about the piece that is necessary to its manufacturing. Any piece of silver that has more than 92.5 percent silver is considered sterling silver or pure silver.