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Silver Wire - Hallmark
Is it possible to buy silver wire pre cut is at Cooksons that has a hallmark on? I am such a small business - more of a hobby really, but if I start to make a bangle or 2 would like it to be hallmarked, but not sure if the invesyment of registering etc is worth it.......so if there were pre hallmarked wire out there it would be the way forward for me....thanks for your help in advance x
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Unfortunately, due to hallmarking legislation, we are not permitted to stock pre-hallmarked wire. It has to be on a finished piece.
If you would like more advice and information about hallmarking, the number for our Hallmarking Specialist is 0121 212 6453
Hope this helps!
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It's very straightforward applying for a maker's mark and arranging hallmarking through the assay office(s). I use Goldsmiths, and they are very helpful. I was very worried I wouldn't know how to complete the forms, or what to do, but it's very straightforward process - and there's something lovely about getting your work back with your makr and the hallmark on ;-)
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I'll second Lydia's comment. Having a sponsor mark really is making your mark on your work, and it is your unique mark for ever and ever.. If you want to sell items the law does require hallmarking and customers will take you much more seriously.
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I'd third it! I am a very small enterprise myself and registered with Goldsmith's last summer. It's not cheap, but well worth it in my opinion. I keep my maker's mark punch myself, so I can punch my initials into everything I make, as I use copper and brass as well as silver.
Melanie
http://www.spinysharklythings.com
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I agree with all the statements above. I got my hallmarking registered last year, and as Melanie said I keep my punch myself, so I can stamp my mark onto any item i make even if it is made from base metals. That way you are making your name known, and promoting your business.
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If you are really averse to registering with your assay office, or make lots of non-precious items and you have a neat signature, then consider the Dremel Engraver, which is £24 inc. VAT. With very little practice you can learn to sign all your pieces, add the date, and draw a little logo. Dennis.
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Good suggestion Dennis, although I passed my Dremel engraver on to my friend when I got my flexshaft, and I write small stuff with a 0.8mm engraving burr. I find the results to be smoother than with the dedicated engraving tool, just need to get the feel of it to be able to stop the bit "running away" to the side. Horses for courses, as is always the way :-)
Melanie
http://www.spinysharklythings.com
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The boring legal thing is that if you sell items over a certain weight which are made of precious metals they must be hallmarked by rule from the Hallmarking Acts. It isn't voluntary. The weights are on the websites for the Assay offices. I would think a bangle would be heavy enough.
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I'm quite excited as I have just applied to the Edinburgh Assay Office for my sponsors mark.
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