Silver Denims

5 Steps of Hallmarking

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  1

  XRF Testing to Verify Metal Purity

  First, the article must be tested to see what materials it is made of. There are a few different ways to do this, shown here is the X-Ray Fluorescent Spectrometer test.

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  2

  Traditional Touchstone Test for Metal Purity

  Another method is the 'touch test', this technique dates back to 500BC. The article is gently rubbed against a 'touchstone' made from basonite.

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  3

  Chemical Scratch Reaction Test

  This leaves a small mark on the stone. Chemicals are applied to the mark and from the reaction that takes place, an initial indication of the fineness is determined. This is the origin of the phrase 'coming up to scratch'.

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  4

  Hand-Struck Hallmarking for This Piece

  Most of our products are Hallmarked using lasers, however this specific piece (Silver Traditional Hallmark Bangle) has been designed to be struck by hand.

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  5

  Traditional Handmarking with Punch and Hammer

  Handmarking is the most traditional method of hallmarking and is carried out using a punch and hammer, this hallmark will last a lifetime