As you peruse our online inventory, you frequently see us
mention specific stamps on the backs of jewels. What do they mean? Why is it
important to look for the presence of these stamps in the first place?
Silver Content
Sterling silver contains 92.5 percent of pure silver and 7.5
percent of alloys. The most frequently used alloy is copper although platinum
or zinc may sometimes also be included. To prove to buyers that a piece of
silver jewelry meets the content requirement, you would see a stamp spelling
out “Sterling” or the number “925.”
Designer Marks
Collectors of designer jewelry know to look for their
favorite design house’s stamp or mark. Each brand has its individual look. The
images rarely change, which makes it easier for buyers to identify authentic
pieces. While there is plenty of room for fraud, it is always possible to take
a photo of an item and contact the design house directly to verify the
authenticity of a piece. Approaching a vintage jewelry appraiser, such as Peter
Suchy, for an expert opinion is another option.
Copyright
Although rarely seen on jewelry items, there are times when
you notice a copyright. Usually, this type of mark appears when a design house
employs a famous artist, who is well known in her or his own right, to create a
jewelry line.
Putting it all Together
A great example that shows off all three of these marks is
the Tiffany & Co. Dove Pendant silver necklace. This dove hangs suspended from an
18-inch chain. When your turn over the beautifully designed pendant, you see
the Tiffany & Co. stamp. It is there alongside the “925” mark as well as
the copyright sign belonging to Paloma Picasso.
Things Look Different in Europe
While the pendant is a perfect example of a combination of
marks, stamps, and hallmarks, do not discount stamps that look different.
Vintage jewelry coming from Europe displays different images than the items
that were made in the United States. Then, there are the historical changes.
This Victorian Sterling Silver Calling Card case from around 1900 is a good example. Aside from its
beautiful look and enchanting owner’s initials engraved on the front, there are
the initials “GU,” which refer to the maker, George Unite. A date code presents
as “U,” which identifies a period of 1894 to 1895. The anchor symbol stands for
Birmingham.
Granted, this sounds a bit complicated, but once you get the
hang of the various symbols and marks, it is quite a fun experience to go
treasure hunting for pieces with hallmarks.
At Peter Suchy Jewelers we are experts in all types of
vintage, estate and antique jewelry. We hope you’ll stop by our showroom
located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut.
Or, hop on over to our top-rated BigCommerce Store where you’ll
find all the vintage sterling silver jewelry you see here. If you find a
listing has ended, please email us at info@petersuchyjewelers.com as we
may still have the item in stock.
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