Why Buying Hallmarked Jewellery Matters More Than Ever
Recent reports have highlighted a worrying issue within the jewellery industry. An investigation by The Sunday Times found that some silver-coloured jewellery sold through online marketplaces, including Amazon and TikTok Shop, contained illegal levels of cadmium—a toxic heavy metal that has been banned in jewellery above strict legal limits in the UK.
Cadmium is not something that belongs in jewellery. It is a hazardous substance that can pose serious health risks with prolonged exposure, particularly in items worn regularly or by children. The findings serve as an important reminder that while online marketplaces can offer attractive prices, they don’t always offer the same level of quality control or independent verification that customers should expect when purchasing precious jewellery.
The Importance of a British Hallmark
One of the simplest ways to protect yourself when buying precious metal jewellery is to look for a British hallmark.
The Hallmarking Act 1973 exists to protect consumers by making it illegal to sell or describe an item as gold, silver, platinum or palladium unless its precious metal content has been independently tested and verified. A genuine British hallmark includes a recognised assay office mark alongside the precious metal fineness, confirming that the item has been officially tested for purity.
A hallmark isn’t simply a stamp—it’s your assurance that the precious metal you’re paying for is exactly what it claims to be.
Why Buying from a Reputable Jeweller Makes a Difference
When you purchase jewellery from a trusted independent jeweller, you’re not just buying a beautiful piece—you’re buying confidence.
Reputable jewellers carefully source their products, understand exactly where they come from, and stand behind the quality of every item they sell. They also have the knowledge to advise customers properly and ensure that all legal requirements are met.
While online marketplaces can be convenient, they often act only as platforms connecting buyers and sellers. This can make it much more difficult to verify the quality, safety and authenticity of the jewellery being offered.
Our Commitment at Shaw Jewellers
At Shaw Jewellers, we believe our customers deserve complete confidence in every purchase they make.
That’s why every piece of precious metal jewellery we sell carries a genuine British hallmark, independently tested by an official UK Assay Office in accordance with the Hallmarking Act.
Whether you’re choosing a silver bracelet, a gold necklace or a handmade engagement ring, you can be assured that your jewellery has been verified for purity and meets the standards expected of genuine precious metal jewellery.
When investing in jewellery that you hope to wear and treasure for years to come, quality, safety and trust should always come before a bargain.
A British hallmark is more than just a tiny stamp—it’s your guarantee of authenticity, quality and peace of mind.
Charlotte.