Questioni would like to know what the markings are on a wedding band that i have, they are; S and what looks like the letter B then the num 9 then 375 then what looks like an anchor then the letter B
AnswerGareth, thanks for this question. To avoid confusion, I first need to clarify the spelling of the word carat. In the UK, carat is used for gold quality and for stone weight. In the USA, metal is marked with a karat spelling and stone weights with the carat spelling.
Basic hallmarks used in the United Kingdom will be consistent in quality marks for the metal. Marks which change are the assay office, makers mark and date letter (if included), arranged like shown at this link:
http://www.theassayoffice.co.uk/current_hallmark_symbols.html
Gareth, without seeing the band I could be mistaken but following the marks as you stated, these would be:
S and possible B--makers mark
9--carat mark meaning 9 carat
375--standard numerical carat mark for 9 carat ( 9 ct is 0.375 in pure gold content.)
Anchor--indicator of the assay office where the ring was stamped, this being Birmingham
B-- likely a date mark.
This link goes to the Birmingham office home page. http://www.theassayoffice.co.uk/ghe.html
This link shows a chart of date letters. Note any "box" shape around the B for different series of years.
http://www.theassayoffice.co.uk/date_letters.html
This should answer your question. If you need more info, feel free to use a follow-up to get back with me.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
