Metals & Gold
US Gold and Silver Marking: How It Differs From Hallmarking
The United States does not require independent third-party assay before sale; instead, manufacturers self-mark purity under FTC rules, with penalties for inaccurate marking.
Self-marking, not independent assay
Unlike the UK's assay office system, US jewelry is typically stamped by the manufacturer itself (for example '14K' or '925') without mandatory independent government testing before the stamp is applied.
FTC enforcement after the fact
The US Federal Trade Commission sets rules requiring accuracy in metal content marking and can take enforcement action against mismarked goods, but this is an after-the-sale remedy rather than pre-sale independent verification.
What this means for buyers
Because US marks are not independently pre-verified in the way UK hallmarks are, buyers relying on purity claims in the US may want additional assurance from acid or electronic testing or a trusted appraiser for higher-value purchases.
Buyer checklist
- ✓ Understand that a US stamp is a manufacturer claim, not independent assay
- ✓ Consider third-party testing for significant purchases
- ✓ Report suspected mismarking to the FTC if discovered
Verification tools & references
Every Riakoob piece arrives certified, insured and covered by our 12-month value promise.
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