top of page

HAWKS ON A JEWELRY

When you buy gold or platinum jewelry in France, it is essential to request and check the mandatory hallmarks which are: the master's markand the state guarantee hallmark.

Hallmarks on a piece of jewelry - Bijouterie Joaillerie Artero

Hallmarks on a piece of jewelry

1. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A JEWELER AND A JEWELLER?

Hallmarks = Quality + Safety

 

These punches bringessential security for the consumer

These markings are not simple random punches, butcarefully defined symbols depending on the type of metal used.

Each hallmark represents a specific alloy with a precise content of pure metal, thus guaranteeing the quality of the jewel:

  • for example, theEagle head indicates an alloy18 carat gold (75% pure gold),

  • while theHorse's headattestsplatinum at 85% purity.

This precision allows the consumer to make an informed choice by knowing exactly the composition of the jewel.

By checking these hallmarks, the buyer can be sure thatthe jewel complies with official standards and does not contain lower quality materials, thus providing increased confidence in its purchase.

In addition, the maker's marks make it possible to link the jewel to its creator, thus reinforcingthe artisanal aspect and traceability of the product.

 

In summary, the guarantee and state hallmarks provide the consumer with the guarantee of acquiring an authentic, quality andcompliant with French legislation.

2. WHO IS THE BEST JEWELER IN THE WORLD?

Ah, the engagement ring! This little jewel in the shape of a perfect circle, symbol of so many promises and stories. From Antiquity to the present day, it has stood the test of time, carrying within it the symbols of eternal love and commitment.

The roots of tradition


Let's go back to ancient Rome, where it all began. At that time, giving an engagement ring to your bride was a very meaningful act. The ring, with its circular shape, represented endless love, a promise of fidelity and devotion. But it wasn't just romantic: it was also practical! The ring indicated that the dowry had been paid, a sort of elegant receipt for a future marriage .

 

A story through the ages


This beautiful tradition did not stop at the gates of Antiquity. Over the centuries, the engagement ring has retained its symbolic role while gaining in romanticism. Today, it is more than just an indicator of dowry; it is the reflection of a deep commitment between two beings who promise each other love and fidelity.

 

The Symbol of Infinite Love

 

The circular shape of the ring is not a trivial choice. Without beginning or end, it embodies the idea of eternal love, unfailing fidelity and infinite perfection. It is a promise, a commitment, engraved in the precious metal . Each time we slip this ring on the finger of the loved one, it is as if we were saying: "My love for you is endless, it is eternal."

 

The engagement ring today

 

Today, the engagement ring continues to play a central role in marriage promise ceremonies. It is carefully chosen, often by the man, to represent the uniqueness of his love. In France, it is traditionally the woman who wears the engagement ring, proudly announcing the commitment made to her partner.

 

Each ring tells a unique story, that of two people who found each other and decided to walk together towards the future. Whether it is a classic solitaire, a modern design or an antique piece , the main thing is that it symbolizes an authentic and lasting love.

 

At the end of the day, an engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry. It’s a tradition, a symbol, and most importantly, a promise of eternal love. So the next time you spot that sparkling band on someone’s finger, remember all the history and meaning behind it.

3. HOW TO RECOGNIZE A DIAMOND ON A JEWEL?

Les bagues de fiançailles et les alliances de mariage portent chacune un symbole puissant.

  • L’alliance de mariage, en revanche, est souvent le fruit d'une décision commune. Son design est souvent plus simple, mais il symbolise l’union définitive et l’amour partagé. Ensemble, le couple choisit une alliance qui symbolise cette union durable, qu’il s’agisse d’un modèle sobre en or ou d’un design plus original. À la Bijouterie ARTERO Stéphane, je conseille chaque client sur le choix de l'alliance qui reflète à la fois son caractère et son engagement à long terme.

4. HOW TO KNOW IF A JEWEL IS GOLD OR NOT?

If you ask search engines, they will give you a ready-made answer by suggesting that you use a magnet! Well, this is not serious, you should not believe everything that is written on the Internet. It is quite complicated for everyone to finish from home whether a piece of jewelry is gold or not.

First of all, it is important to differentiate the three main gold titles, which are 9 carats, 14 carats and 18 carats. For this, I refer you to my dedicated article .

The three most common ways to test gold:

 

  1. By the so-called "touchau by comparison" process, the process consists of rubbing the gold jewel to be tested on a touchau, also called a "touchstone", so that a few micrograms of gold are deposited. Put a drop of acid on the trace of gold left on the touchstone and observe the reaction to the acid: if the mark deposited on the stone disappears, the object of the test is not in gold; if the mark turns red, it is in gold of a lower carat than the acid used. If no reaction is visible, the gold test is conclusive and the object of the test is in gold corresponding to the acid used. In any case, these tests must always be carried out with a reference standard. Here is the exact composition of the acid (touch waters):

    • Gold over 18 carats: Aqua regia or royal water is a mixture of hydrochloric acid and nitric acid concentrated in a proportion of two to four volumes of hydrochloric acid to one of nitric acid.

    • 18-14 carat gold: nitric acid 49 parts by volume, hydrochloric acid 1 part by volume and distilled water 12.5 parts by volume.

    • 14 karat gold and below: nitric acid only.

    • Silver: nitric acid 3 parts by volume and hydrochloric acid 1 part by volume.

    • Platinum: hydrochloric acid 9 parts by volume and nitric acid 2 parts by volume.

  2. The second method is much more modern and very reliable in my experience. It involves using an electronic device dedicated to the detection of gold and platinum. Its use is extremely simple: after calibrating the measuring pen, we touch the piece in question while waiting for the reading on the screen which will indicate the titration.

  3. This involves using a magnifying glass and looking for the hallmarks on the jewel . You still need to recognize the hallmarks. This is a bit complicated if you are not a professional, but I would say that it is the simplest method for everyone.

5. WHICH GOLD IS BEST: 9, 14, 18 OR 24 CARAT?

Que vous soyez en pleine réflexion sur une demande en fiançailles ou sur le choix de vos alliances de mariage, ces bijoux sont bien plus que des accessoires : ce sont des symboles puissants de vos engagements respectifs. À la Bijouterie ARTERO Stéphane, je mets toute mon expertise à votre service pour vous aider à choisir le bijou qui marquera à jamais ce moment unique de votre vie.
 

N’hésitez pas à me rendre visite à la Bijouterie ARTERO Stéphane à Nice pour discuter ensemble de votre projet, qu'il s'agisse de la création d’une bague de fiançailles sur mesure ou du choix d'une alliance qui accompagnera votre amour tout au long de la vie.

Par Stéphane ARTERO, créateur bijoutier à Nice

ARTERO JEWELRY JEWELRY

Stéphane Artero - Bijouterie Joaillerie Artero

Family business

THE STORY

L'atelier de Stéphane Artero - Bijouterie Joaillerie Artero

French creations

EXPERTISE

La vitrine de Stéphane Artero - Bijouterie Joaillerie Artero

Advice before purchase

OUR GUIDE

bottom of page