A One Minute Quick Guide to Jewellery Hallmarks

What To Look For When Buying Jewellery

With decades of experience in jewellery design, craftsmanship, and sourcing the finest materials, we know that buying jewellery is more than just a purchase - it's an investment in beauty, sentiment, and quality. With so many options out there, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. From different metals to hallmarks and quality markers, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. 

Not to worry - we've put together this guide to help you shop with confidence and find something truly special. 

Gold

Gold jewellery comes in different purities, measured in carats (ct) or karats (K), depending on where you are in the world. Pure gold is 24ct (or 24K), but because it's naturally soft, it's usually alloyed (mixed) with other metals to increase its durability which lowers the carat number. The lower the carat, the more alloy metals it contains. 

Having worked in gold manufacturing we know that the right alloy can enhance both beauty and longevity.

At Bowerbird Jewels, we use high-quality gold vermeil and gold plating over the top of sterling silver only and gold filled, ensuring longevity and beauty without compromising on luxury. 

Silver

Pure silver, like pure gold, is too soft for everyday wear, so it's usually alloyed with copper to create Sterling Silver - the standard for fine silver jewellery. 

With our understanding of metallurgy and long-standing relationships with trusted manufacturers, we ensure that every piece of our silver jewellery meets the highest standards. You'll find solid Sterling SIlver hallmarked accordingly, so you can wear it with confidence.

Platinum

Platinum is a rare and durable white metal that's naturally hypoallergenic and doesn't require plating like white gold. it's commonly marked as:

• PT950 (95% platinum) or PT900 (90% platinum).

While Bowerbird Jewels specialised in gold and Sterling Silver, we appreciate the craftsmanship involved in working with platinum and always recommend understanding these markings when shopping for fine jewellery.

Understanding Hallmarks

Jewellery hallmarks are a guarantee of metal quality. Here's a handy reference:

Why Shop with Confidence at Bowerbird Jewels?

With over 30 years of experience in jewellery design and gemstone expertise, we know what makes a piece truly special. At Bowerbird Jewels, we only work with Sterling Silver, gold vermeil, and gold-filled jewellery. Every piece is crafted to meet international standards, ensuring you receive beautifully made, high-quality jewellery that lasts.