Hallmarks
Also called hallmark
Hallmarks are official stamps on precious-metal cases and bracelets showing the metal's purity, and in some systems where and when it was tested.
They help confirm that a gold or platinum watch is made of what it claims to be, and their style can help date and authenticate a piece. Missing or inconsistent hallmarks on a precious-metal watch deserve a closer look.
Examine hallmarks under magnification and compare them with verified examples of the reference.
Hallmark systems differ from country to country, so the absence of a familiar mark doesn't always mean a problem; compare against examples from the same market and era.
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