When did hallmarking gold in the US start. by: Anonymous
Hi Donna thank you for writing in with the following hallmark question:
"My 18k (this is what the guy said when i bought it) rose gold locket has no hallmarks anywhere. does this mean its fake?"
Donna just because there are no hallmarks on the locket it doesn't mean its not made of gold. In the U.S., no hallmarks were initially required. In the late 18th and early 19th century, local regulations were established in New York, Boston, Baltimore, and elsewhere; maker's marks appeared and the words "coin" and "sterling" were stamped on silver objects. In 1906 the use of the words came under federal regulation. Hallmarks on gold, similar to those on silver, were also then subject to federal regulation.
Your local jewelry can acid test to determine the gold composition.
