Separate the mark from its application
Assay offices offer traditional struck marking and laser marking. These are methods of applying marks to precious-metal articles. When looking at gold rings, the appearance of an impressed or outlined mark should not be treated as a different gold fineness in itself. Read the symbols and numbers together, and ask for help if a small photograph is unclear.
Request a clear view
A shallow-looking mark may be difficult to photograph on a curved reflective surface. Ask for an image that shows the whole group of marks in focus, rather than enlarging one indistinct character beyond the information the photograph contains. Changes in reflection can make a line appear stronger or weaker without explaining how or when the article was marked.
Avoid dating by depth
A deep-looking impression is not an independent proof of age or manufacturing origin. Nor should a laser appearance be treated as evidence about how the entire piece was made. The hallmarking process and the jewellery's casting, fabrication, setting and finishing are separate subjects. If a historical or making claim matters, ask for the evidence supporting that specific statement.
Discuss work before altering the surface
If polishing, repair or engraving is proposed near existing marks, tell the professional where they are and ask how the work will be assessed. Do not attempt to deepen, retrace or clean out a mark with a sharp tool. For CIELA rings, confirm the actual hallmark information associated with the selected piece rather than assuming that every photograph shows the same marking method.
Further reading: Source reference.
