Hallmarking in Ireland

logo of the Dublin Assay Office where they do hallmarking of precious metals

 

We are delighted to be members of the Company of Goldsmiths of Dublin, Ireland's Assay Office in Dublin Castle. 

It was established and incorporated by royal charter of Charles I on 22nd December 1637, and to assay and hallmark all items of gold and silver manufactured throughout the whole of Ireland.

What is Hallmarking?

Hallmarking refers to marks or marks that are applied to precious metals (silver, gold, palladium, platinum). It is carried out by an independent government body not the maker, to ensure quality and guarantee the precious metal content.

Why is Hallmarking Important?

Irish hallmarks provide you with a unique guarantee of the precious metal content in what you buy, and an instant way to see if the metal is pure, sterling, plated, or mixed. It also helps us both, you the buyer, and me the maker, from counterfeit manufacturers.

Recluse and Bird Marks

There are three compulsory marks in Ireland, and here are the marks you will find on each piece of jewellery you buy from us

image of the hallmarks used on Recluse and Bird silver jewellery

  • Makers Mark - Maker’s mark of Orla Breslin, founder of Recluse and Bird
  • Assay Office Mark - Hibernia is the mark of the Dublin Assay Office
  • Metal and Finesse (Purity) Mark - Silver 999

Metals we use:

  • Silver: We use 'Art Clay' metal clay made in Japan, which is 100% recycled from e-waste; electronic and medical electrical equipment. It is a zero waste material, even the dust from sanding is collected and reused. This is 99% silver with an organic binder to make it pliable. 
  • Gold: We use the Korean technique of Keum-boo for bonding thin gold leaf onto fine silver. The gold foil is reclaimed waste from signwriters and guilders and ranges from 14-24 carat.
  • Findings: chains, earrings, and other findings are all made from 100% recycled sterling silver. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. I buy this from ethical suppliers in Italy and Spain.

Hallmarks Explained

Below is an image supplied by the Dublin Assay Office to help you understand Irish hallmarks. Have a read and get to know the different marks.

poster from the dublin assay office explaining what the different Irish hallmarks mean on jewellery