Hallmarking is when precious metals such as silver, gold, platinum and palladium are officially marked by a stamp or a series of strikes. This is typically carried out by a government body, independent of the jeweller who made the piece.

The use of hallmarks on silver has a long history. Dating back as far as 4th century AD, hallmarks represent the oldest form of consumer protection. Although their interpretation has not been completely resolved, a series of marks (similar to that of traditional hallmarks) have been found on silver dating from the Byzantine period.

The Dublin Assay Office was established in 1637 to supervise the hallmarking of each piece of gold and silver throughout Ireland, and attest to its purity.  In an era of much forgery and fakery, where ingots of gold and silver were the currency, this was a vital process.

Today, although forgery is much less a concern, the tradition contintues and all pieces made by Simon Barber, are sent to the Dublin Assay Office to be tested for their purity and then stamped with the marking 925 – the mark for Sterling Silver.  In addition our jewellery proudly bears the unique makers mark SJB – Simon James Barber.