The hallmark: a discreet but essential guarantee

Jewellery 02/07/2025

In the world of jewellery, every detail counts. A piece of quality jewellery is not only recognised by the eye or by touch, but also by its least visible and most regulated feature: the hallmark.

A tiny mark engraved on the precious metal, the hallmark embodies a commitment to rigour, transparency and authenticity. It symbolises a legal commitment, but also a centuries-old jewellery tradition.

At Lepage, each piece is marked with rigorously controlled hallmarks, because nothing is left to chance — especially not what guarantees the value and traceability of your jewelry.

Qu’est-ce qu’un poinçon en joaillerie ?

A hallmark is an impression engraved in the metal of a piece of jewellery, affixed using a specific tool or a mechanical system. It is visible to the naked eye, although its small size and discreet location make it difficult to see with the naked eye.

In France, hallmarks are strictly regulated by the Direction Générale des Douanes et de l'Espace (Directorate-General of Customs and Exports). Their appearance is mandatory for the following items:

For jewellery weighing less than 3 grams (regardless of its purity: 24k, 18k, 14k)
Jewellery in rLentpadès when it weighs less than 30 grams.

These stamps are:

either ps, an official hallmark,
or directly at the workshop, provided that it is accompanied by a hallmark of authenticity, as is the case for your Lepage oux jewellery.

The different types of hallmarks

The title (or guarantee) hallmark

This indicates the content of the precious metal, according to a vintage system (expressed in ‰).

Here are the main hallmarks used in France:

18-carat gold (750 ‰): represented by an eagle's head.
14-carat gold (585 ‰): a scallop shell.
Silver (925 ‰): a minerva.
Platinum (950 ‰): a dog's head.

The master hallmark

This is the signature of the workshop. It is unique to each manufacturer or approved jeweller. It takes the form of a lozenge containing the designer's initials and a distinctive symbol (a star, a letter, a tool, an animal, etc.).

The hallmark is registered with French customs. The maker is responsible for the quality and origin of the piece.

« The Lepage hallmark, used on all our jewellery, takes the form of a diamond with a B (Bijouterie), an L (Lepage) and an apple in the centre, a nod to our Norman origins and a symbol of our history. »

The hallmarks are carefully placed, in areas that are not exposed to much wear, in order to preserve both their legibility and the aesthetic line of the jewel.

They are generally found:

inside a ring,
on the clasp of a necklace or bracelet,
or on the back of a pendant or earring.

They are always visible to the naked eye, although appropriate lighting or a magnifying glass can make them easier to spot, especially on old, weathered or very fine jewellery.

As you can see, the hallmark is not just a detail: it is a precious certification. Affixed to each piece of precious metal jewellery, it provides legal proof of authenticity, guarantees the true value of the piece - essential for an insurance appraisal, resale or transmission - and ensures complete traceability, from the metal to the craftsman.

It also demonstrates a commitment to transparency, at the heart of responsible, sustainable jewellery. In a sector where value far exceeds the weight of the metal, the hallmark embodies trust, respect for the rules of the art and is a sign of excellence.

At Lepage, each hallmark is affixed with the same rigour that guides all our expertise.

If you own a piece of jewellery without a hallmark, or if you would like to know more about its origin, our jewellery experts are at your service.

In jewellery, as in art, it's all about the detail.

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