Hallmark Research Institute

HRI Newsletter
Updates & Information

December, 2010- Vol 1, Issue 1

In This Issue

Quick Links

* Hallmark Research Website

* Hallmarking Convention Brochure

* American Gem Society

* National Association of Jewelry Appraisers

HRI UPDATE

HRI would like to thank everyone for their support and encouragement in our on-going research of world hallmarks. Each book purchase goes directly to funding our investigation and the discovery of new hallmarks and hallmarking countries around the world.

Hallmark Press

As a part of this on-going research, we have just returned from extremely successful meetings with the directors and officers of the Assay Offices in Cairo Egypt, Tel Aviv Israel, and Ramallah Palestine [West Bank]. We are currently collaborating with other Assay Offices, and are happy to report that Volume II of the World Hallmarks Series is well on its way!

HALLMARKING NEWS

Hallmarking Convention

IMPORTANT NEWS: On February 27, 2010, the Hallmarking Convention (HMC) ratified the official use of a Common Control Mark (CCM) for palladium. Hallmarked in finenesses of 999, 950 and 500, this mark can now be found on palladium items trading between HMC countries. The new palladium mark features the same classic core image as the other HMC Common Control marks, with fineness numeral atop balance scales, differing in it's frame shape outline with a peaked top over a fanned base. As this mark was released after the revised 2nd edition of World Hallmarks - Vol. I - Europe went to print, it is suggested that owners of the book should personalize their copy (page 349) of World Hallmarks to include this important information.

Special Honors

HRI would like to sincerely congratulate Martin Novotny, of the Czech Assay Office, for his appointment as the new Deputy of the Hallmarking Convention. We would also like to congratulate Dalia Yarom for her 3 year appointment as Chairperson to the International Association of Assay Offices (IAAO).

Lithuania Chapter Note

The Lithuanian hallmarking system has an additional fineness of gold that was not listed in the World Hallmarks - Vol.I - Europe book. In the Lithuania chapter, on page 164, under the GOLD heading dated 1918 - 1945, there are four finenesses listed when there actually are a total of five. Along with the finesses 960, 855, 750 and 585, there should also be a 980 standard listed as well. HRI suggests that book owners make the appropriate note to this chapter.

Italy's Marks

While we do not have all the details yet, Italy may be making changes to their voluntary hallmarking system in the coming year, 2011. HRI will keep you posted as more information becomes available.

LECTURE NOTES

Do you want to attend a Hallmark Research Institute lecture? Bill Whetstone and Danusia Niklewicz will be conducting a hallmark lecture and hands on workshop at the American Gem Society (AGS) Conclave in April 2011. Visit the AGS website for more information.

PUNCH LINES

Do you recognize this mark?

What is different about this mark? Note the lack of a frame or outline. The mark appears incomplete but there is something very distinct about its appearance.

This is a Bigorne mark (page 101, World Hallmarks, Vol.I, 2nd edition), most easily identified by the presence of an additional mark on the reverse of the item at the same spot. This counter-strike is the impression of a specially engraved anvil that imposes the impression of the engraving when the actual hallmark is struck. The French were the first to use such a technique to thwart forgeries. If you look closely you will be able to make out body parts of insects. This practice was in use from 1818 until 1984.

Free Shipping!	Purchase your next gift, a copy of World Hallmarks, Volume I, or if you have not yet purchased your own copy, take advantage of this limited time offer and get free shipping! From December 1st through the 15th, HRI will pay for shipping to the any location in the USA and Canada. Go to the Hallmark Research Website to receive free shipping today!
Offer Expires: December 15, 2010

BOOK SIGNING

Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, AGTA Convention Center

Meet the authors, Whetstone, Niklewicz, and Matula at the National Association of Appraisers (NAJA) booth on February 3, at 4:00 pm where they will be signing books and answering questions. Bring your book for signing. World Hallmarks - Vol. I - Europe will be available for purchase from the NAJA or Gemological Institute of America (GIA) booths.

We hope you have enjoyed this inaugural issue of the HRI Newsletter.

Thank you again for your support!

Sincerely,

HALLMARK RESEARCH INSTITUTE