Hallmarking in Ireland

What it is and why it matters

When you invest in a piece of silver or gold jewellery, you're not just buying a beautiful item—you’re purchasing craftsmanship, materials, and trust. At West Cork Silver, every piece of jewellery is hallmarked at Dublin Castle, a practice steeped in history and integrity. But what exactly does that mean, and why is it so important?

What Is Hallmarking?

A hallmark is a series of official marks stamped onto a precious metal item like a silver ring or pendant. It certifies the metal's purity and guarantees it meets the legal standard. In Ireland, this process is overseen by the Assay Office at Dublin Castle, one of the oldest assay offices in the world, operating since 1637.

For silver, the standard is 92.5% pure silver, known as sterling silver. The hallmark tells you your piece has been tested and meets that standard.

Each hallmark includes a series of symbols stamped onto the piece, identifying:

·        The fineness of the metal (e.g., sterling silver is 925 parts per thousand).

·        The Assay Office mark, verifying it was tested and certified in Dublin.

·        The maker’s mark, identifying the artist or brand behind the work.

Hallmarking in Ireland: It's the Law

Under Irish law, all items made from precious metals — including silver, gold, and platinum — must be hallmarked regardless of weight. This is stricter than many other countries (like the UK), where items under a certain weight may be exempt. In Ireland, every piece must be sent to the Assay Office and officially marked.

So when you see the hallmark on your West Cork Silver piece, you can trust that it's been independently verified and meets the highest standards of Irish craftsmanship and authenticity.

Why It Matters to You

·       Authenticity: Hallmarking provides proof that your jewellery is genuine silver or gold, not merely plated or imitated.

·       Trust & Transparency: It gives buyers peace of mind that they’re getting what they paid for—especially important in a world of mass production and imported imitations.

·       Resale and Heirloom Value: A hallmarked piece holds greater value for resale and is a trusted keepsake to pass on through generations.

Why It Matters to Me the Maker

As a maker, hallmarking is more than a legal requirement — it’s a point of pride. It adds value, credibility, and transparency to what I do. I want every customer to know they are getting something genuine and long-lasting.

At West Cork Silver, every piece is handcrafted with care and hallmarked at Dublin Castle—a symbol of authenticity, heritage, and quality. When you wear our jewellery, you're not only wearing something beautiful—you’re wearing a story you can trust.