The Imprint of Craftsmanship and Purity
When you admire a piece of fine jewellery, its polish, its weight, its design — you may also notice something subtle yet significant: a small mark or number impressed into the gold. This mark is the result of a process known as stamping.
At PureJewels, where every item is crafted with intention and integrity, stamping is not just a technical step. It is a symbol of authenticity, quality and trust.
What Does Stamping Mean in Jewellery?
Stamping is the process of impressing a mark, symbol or number onto a piece of jewellery using a hardened steel punch or die. It is most commonly used to indicate the metal’s purity, origin or sometimes, the maker’s identity.
These small marks are usually discreetly placed on the inner side of a ring, the clasp of a chain or the back of a pendant. But they hold great meaning. They tell you what the piece is made from, where it was hallmarked and sometimes even who made it.
Types of Stamps You Might See
Metal Purity Marks
These indicate the precious metal content. For example:
• 916 means 22ct gold
• 750 means 18ct gold
• 925 means Sterling silver
• 950 means Platinum
Assay Office Marks
In the UK, a hallmark includes a symbol from one of the four official Assay Offices: London, Birmingham, Sheffield or Edinburgh.
Maker’s Mark
A unique symbol or initials registered to the jeweller or manufacturer.
Date Letter (Optional)
Some traditional hallmarks include a letter to indicate the year the item was tested.
Why Stamping Matters
Stamping is important for both legal and practical reasons. In the UK, any gold item over 1 gram must be hallmarked by law. This ensures transparency in precious metal sales and helps protect both the customer and the maker.
At PureJewels, every gold and platinum item is individually hallmarked by the London Assay Office, guaranteeing the purity stated, whether it is 22ct, 18ct or otherwise. When you see those tiny, precise stamps on your jewellery, you are not just seeing a number. You are seeing a promise.
The Craft of Stamping
In traditional workshops, stamping was done by hand using a steel punch and a mallet. The jeweller would line up the stamp with care, then strike it cleanly to leave an imprint. This method is still used in bespoke or artisan pieces.
In modern settings, especially for larger production, hydraulic presses or laser engraving are used for accuracy and consistency. Though the technique has evolved, the result remains the same: a mark that stands for truth and traceability.
Stamping vs Engraving
While they may appear similar, stamping and engraving serve different purposes.
Stamping is about marking metal for identification. It is quick, clear and legally recognised.
Engraving is more decorative. It is often used to add personal messages, initials or patterns, and may cut deeper into the metal.
Both are meaningful. Stamping is a hallmark of trust. Engraving adds a touch of personalisation.
Final Thoughts
Jewellery is deeply personal. But it is also a legacy of materials, makers and meaning. Stamping bridges the gap between beauty and authenticity, reassuring you that what you hold is both genuine and honourably crafted.
At PureJewels, every hallmark we stamp is part of our story. It is a symbol of heritage, integrity and the quiet confidence that comes from doing things the right way.
