Markings

Markings on jewelry signify the piece's material content, origin, and authenticity, serving as a hallmark of quality and craftsmanship.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: In the jewelry industry, markings refer to inscriptions or stamps found on jewelry pieces, providing critical information about the material's purity, the manufacturer, and sometimes the place of origin. These can include karatage marks on gold jewelry like '10k' or '14k', indicating the gold's purity, or sterling marks such as '.925' signifying the percentage of silver content. Markings not only authenticate the material used but also provide insight into the jewelry’s provenance and the artisan's mark, which can significantly affect the piece's value and collectability. They serve as a crucial guide for consumers and appraisers, ensuring transparency and trust in the quality and sourcing of the jewelry. Detailed and clear markings are thus a sign of high craftsmanship and ethical standards in the manufacture and sale of jewelry items.