Experts are urging consumers to brush up on their knowledge of UK hallmarks before they make jewellery purchases this Christmas to avoid buying fakes.
Figures from the British Hallmarking Council’s Annual Report and Accounts for year ended December 31, 2009, revealed that Trading Standards Departments had reported over 3,000 unhallmarked articles described as gold, silver and platinum. As a result, the Birmingham Assay Office and experts have warned consumers that they must be vigilant when buying platinum jewellery this festive season.
Marion Wilson, sales and marketing director at the Birmingham Assay Office, said: “Buying an engagement ring is an extremely romantic experience but for many consumers it will be one of the more expensive purchases they make and possibly their first experience of buying jewellery.”
She added: “Just as you wouldn’t purchase a car without research, shoppers should make sure they know what they are looking for when choosing the perfect engagement ring. Don’t be afraid to talk to your jeweller and ask questions, they will be pleased to share their expertise.”
The Birmingham Assay Office is running a Christmas Hallmarking campaign, and advises the follow tips when buying a platinum engagement ring:
1. Check the hallmarks on the ring to confirm it is a precious metal - there must be at least three different marks to be a full legal UK hallmark
2. If buying a diamond the four C’s, clarity, colour, cut and its size (carat weight) are the key factors that influence its value
3. Don’t be afraid to design your own - often the same price as purchasing one already on sale if purchased from a specialist jeweller such as the platinum ring company.
4. Try not to be influenced by fashions but the ring will be with the bride for life, so make sure it is something she can feel comfortable with for years to come
5. Make sure you get the engagement ring added to your household insurance - it can prove a costly item to replace if not documented. Your jeweller should provide you with a valuation certificate.
We accredit www.retail-jeweller.com for inspiration for this article.
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