QuestionI've seen some of your answers on this topic, but I'm still somewhat confused. My husband and I just purchased a two tone gold Crucifux from a jeweler, and we are wondering if the piece has to be stamped with the karat on it. We are in the US and the jewelery store states its is 14K, but we thought all gold had to be stamped with the karat on it. Thank you for your time and expertise.
AnswerJillian, this is a fine question. Too many folks are confused about jewelry marking requirements and the changes to decimal indications rather than the more common K or KT we are used to seeing.
The way the regulations read in the USA require that "if" a manufacturer stamps a quality mark, that is the karat mark, then the maker must also place the makers mark next to the quality mark. There is not a requirement that the item be stamped with a metal quality mark.
Most makers have better sense than to try and sell items without a metal quality mark, i.e. 14k. The customer is always left wondering if this is really what they were told. To leave off a quality mark is simply bad business and will hurt sales.
Yes, the mark does not have to be there..leaving you to rely on what you are told! If the mark is there, the maker MUST verify the marking by placing its signature in the form of the makers stamp beside the karat stamp.
I do hope this answers your question. Let me know if you need more. You can get back to me on this by using the "follow-up" option.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas. September 13, 2007 9:30pm
