Hallmarks

Jewelry Discussion
1

Hi, Everyone,

A very long time ago we had a discussion about hallmark and
metal content stamps on jewelry.

As I understand it, in the USA sterling, 14K, 18K, 24K jewelry
must all be stamped to identify metal content, but it is illegal
to stamp it unless you also stamp your company hallmark.

Assuming I am understanding this correctly, I have a couple
questions.

  1. What exactly is a hallmark as it pertains to jewelry?

  2. I already stamp my initials on my pieces. Will this qualify
    as a hallmark?

  3. Does the hallmark have to be registered? If yes, how and
    where?

  4. Does gold-filled also require these stamps?

  5. Is there anything else I need to know about this subject?

Thanks.

Candy Glaze