Compliance
Hallmarking after an alteration
A repair can be technically sound and still require a hallmarking decision before it is returned to market.
The London Assay Office states that making an addition, alteration or repair to a hallmarked article requires its written consent. Its Change of Use process exists for legitimate work that alters an existing hallmarked item.
The workshop decision and the hallmarking decision are connected but separate.
An alteration can be technically possible while still requiring the existing hallmark, added metal and intended use to be considered. Recording the mark and the article before work gives the client a clearer basis for seeking Assay Office guidance.
Where the position is uncertain, the correct next step is confirmation from the Assay Office rather than an assumption by the workshop or client.
Record first
- Photograph the hallmark and the complete item before work.
- Identify the metal being added or removed.
- Keep the repair instruction and any assay correspondence with the job record.
Assess the alteration
- Consider whether the work changes the article, its fineness representation or the relationship between marked and unmarked parts.
- Do not assume an old mark automatically covers new material.
- Seek Assay Office guidance when the position is unclear.
Keep evidence
- Retain written consent or the relevant certificate.
- Record any additions mark applied after alteration.
- Link the evidence to the client and workshop job reference.
Records worth keeping with an alteration
- No clear photograph of the existing hallmark before work.
- New metal added without its type or source being recorded.
- Assay correspondence stored separately from the workshop reference.
- Treating an existing mark as automatic approval for every alteration.