QuestionI have a couple of early 20th cent. family rings - over the years even before I got them the karat quality mark was gone probably to re-sizing - many times over almost 100 years - question - should I have my regular jeweler mark inside that they're 14k, that my heirs can avoid confusion when/if they themselves need to re-size. TIA
AnswerKerry, this is an interesting question. Here is why:
I cannot recommend a karat stamp without also a makers mark or the mark of the jeweler who tests the metal to be sure it is 14 karat. That is how the law reads: Karat mark not legally required but if it IS THERE, the makers mark MUST also be there.
Sure, both makers marks and quality marks(karat stamp) are sometimes lost over the years from sizing and repair work. I do imagine a jeweler will test the rings for you to be certain of the karat. Call jewelers first to see if they do the testing since some stores do not have a bench jeweler or otherwise do not test metals. I am sure you and the jewelers can work out a means of identification of quality for the rings.
Thanks again. God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
