May Bank Holidays 2024
Please see our opening hours prior to the May Bank Holidays for 2024.
Date Published: 29 April 2024
News
News Archive
News Articles
IT and Service Issues Final Update
Final updates on our services returning to normal from a customer perspective.
Date Published: 25 March 2024
Price Adjustment 2024
We have made the decision to adjust our prices. This has not been taken lightly. However increased costs of production, and the surge in demand for high priority packet return and for complex marking of articles, have made it a necessity for our business.
Date Published: 14 March 2024
Annual UK Hallmarking Figures for 2023
The total number of articles sent for hallmarking at all UK offices in 2023 fell by -17.7% to 8,020,089.
Gold, silver, platinum and palladium saw a decline in the quantity of articles hallmarked.
Date Published: 15 January 2024
2024 date letter
Happy New Year!
The date letter for 2024 is a lower case z.
A non-compulsory mark, the date letter changes annually on 1 January. The font, case, and shield shape all change so each can only indicate one specific year.
Learn about the evolution of the hallmark and the component marks in the article ‘Hallmark as Hero’ by Goldsmiths’ Company Deputy Librarian.
Date Published: 02 January 2024
James Cargill, Deputy Production Manager, made a Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company
Congratulations to James Cargill, Deputy Production Manager of our Heathrow sub-office, who, earlier this month, was made a Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company by Special Grant in celebration of 10 years service.
A Freeman is a tier of membership in Livery Companies. It is the largest grouping of members at the Goldsmiths’ Company. Freemen play an important part in the life of the Company.
Read more about Company membership here thegoldsmiths.co.uk/membership
Date Published: 18 December 2023
HALO Award winners announced at the Benevolent Society Ball
Two jewellery businesses with an emphasis on creating bespoke commissions are the joint winners of the HALO Award 2023. Chair of the British Hallmarking Council Noel Hunter presented the Award to Harriet Kelsall, founder of Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery company and Anna Mcloughlin of Anna Mcloughlin Fine Jewellery at the prestigious Benevolent Society Ball at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham.
Date Published: 11 December 2023
Judges praise high standard of entries for the HALO Awards 2023
Members of the judging panel for the HALO Award 2023 have been highly complimentary about this year’s entries, praising businesses for their imaginative ways of creating consumer awareness of hallmarking. After lengthy consideration the winners of the Award for 2023 have now been selected.
Full details of the winning entries will be published after the formal announcement on 7th December.
Date Published: 29 November 2023
Make Your Mark 2D Design award at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition 2023/24
We are delighted to be partnering again with The Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council for the 2023/24 Competition with our Make Your Mark design challenge.
This year, on the theme of ‘City Spirit’, entrants are invited to design jewellery, smallwork or silverware. Broad and engaging interpretations of this are encouraged and welcomed, such as folklore, fashion, festivals, communities, culture, diversity, food, history and architecture to name but a few areas of interest. Designers can choose any city (globally) but must embrace their concept visually through their design presentation.
Also important, designs must incorporate a display, or bespoke placement of the London Assay Office hallmark that is complimentary to the design and thoughtfully positioned. This is an opportunity to choose the placement of the hallmark components, and to consider the hallmark in harmony with your design.
Date Published: 17 October 2023
Production Manager Kheni Priest's advice for the busy season
When you're busy, we're busy too - we receive more work to test and hallmark in correlation with peak trading times. We want to ensure we can be as swift as possible, and keep all services running in the lead up to Christmas - we understand we need to maintain access to all levels of service for everyone.
So, help us help you! Follow these tips...
Date Published: 16 October 2023
2023 end of year deadlines
Both counters at Goldsmiths’ Hall and our Greville Street office will close at 1pm on Friday 22 December 2023, and reopen at 9am on Tuesday 2 January 2024.
Cut offs:
We are anticipating an extremely busy run up to Christmas, and postal strikes and rail strikes could further impact our turnaround times.
To guarantee your work is ready before we close, standard service packets must be submitted by Friday 8 December. Early Hall / next day packets must be received by Wednesday 20 December. 1 hour packets will be accepted up until 11am on Friday 22 December. Packets must adhere to our submission and service rules.
There are currently no further planned service restrictions / packet limitations
Date Published: 16 October 2023
Anne-Christina Warburton announced as Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company
- Anne-Christina (Annie) Warburton will join the Goldsmith’s Company in January 2024
- Annie has more than 20 years’ experience in creative industries organisations that span the private, public, and charity sectors
- Annie becomes the first female Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company in its history
Date Published: 11 October 2023
SUSPENDED: London Underground industrial action 4 and 6 October 2023
Industrial action planned by London Underground workers for Wednesday 4 and Friday 6 October 2023 has been suspended.
There will be no adaptations to our service. Goldsmiths' Hall and Greville Street counters will operate as normal.
Date Published: 03 October 2023
One week left to submit HALO Award applications
There is just a week left to submit applications for the HALO (Hallmarking Awareness & learning Online) Award which closes on Friday September 29th.
If your business has gone above and beyond to make your customers aware of the importance of hallmarking this year then why not apply?
Date Published: 21 September 2023
Closing date for HALO Award extended to 29 September 2023
It is not too late to apply for this year’s Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) Award as the closing date for applications has been extended to September 29 2023.
Date Published: 30 August 2023
ASLEF Industrial Action on Friday 1 September 2023
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect both the train and tube networks.
The networks will be disrupted on Friday 1 September 2023. As a result our service on this day will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 9am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall aims to open at 9am and will close at 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 25 August 2023
Adding Trust, Confidence and Customer Reassurance - HALO Winners 2022 value the benefits of promoting the hallmark
Trust, confidence and customer reassurance. Three key benefits that last year’s four successful Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) Award winners believe make promoting hallmarking important to their business. Adding value by linking into the long-established history of hallmarking was also cited as a selling point.
Date Published: 23 August 2023
August late summer bank holiday closure 2023
Goldsmiths’ Hall and Greville Street will close at 4pm on Friday 25 August 2023 and re-open at 9am on Tuesday 29 August 2023.
Please note Greville Street closes for lunch at 12noon - 1pm.
We wish you a happy and sunny Bank Holiday weekend!
Date Published: 07 August 2023
Chair of Judging Panel, Rachael Taylor, offers helpful advice for businesses entering the HALO Award 2023
Applications for the HALO (Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online Awards) 2023 close on 8th September, allowing another five weeks to submit entries. The Award encourages jewellers selling online to celebrate and promote the hallmark. Chair of the HALO Award Judging Panel, Rachael Taylor shares her thoughts on the Award and what could make a successful application.
Date Published: 04 August 2023
Happy 50th anniversary to the 1973 Hallmarking Act
Happy 50th anniversary to the Hallmarking Act, which was passed on 25 July 1973 and came into effect in 1975.
The Act aimed to tidy up the complexities that had found their way into hallmarking law, making hallmarks easier to understand, whilst still retaining their rich history and traditions.
Date Published: 25 July 2023
HALO Award 2023 features on Jewellers Academy podcast
Are you using the full potential of the hallmark to help sell your jewellery?
Listen to the Jewellers Academy podcast, episode 163: What is the Halo Award and how hallmarking can add to your story as a jeweller.
Visit naj.co.uk/HALO for full details.
Date Published: 24 July 2023
Sampler David celebrates 45 years at the Assay Office
David Archer is celebrating 45 years working with us this summer having started work for the Assay Office in 1978.
Date Published: 20 July 2023
Tube industrial action - 25, 26, 27, 28 July 2023
Industrial action planned by London Underground workers will affect the tube networks on Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26, Thursday 27, and Friday 28 July.
Please be aware that our services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work, and counters at Goldsmiths' Hall and Greville Street may be late to open. Our counters will remain open until 17.00.
During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 17 July 2023
Hallmarking in the spotlight at the Trading Standards Conference
Hallmarking was in the spotlight at the recent Chartered Trading Standards Conference in Birmingham with the presentation of the Touchstone Award.
Date Published: 07 July 2023
Workshop Manager Pat celebrates 45 years at the Assay Office
Workshop Manager, Pat Geary first started working for the Assay Office on 3 July 1978.
We asked Pat some questions about his career.
Date Published: 03 July 2023
RMT Industrial Action on Thursday 20 July
The networks will be disrupted on Thursday 20 July. As a result our service on this day will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 9am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall aims to open at 9am and will close at 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 26 June 2023
HALO Award 2023
Are you using the full potential of the hallmark to help sell your jewellery?
Launching today at the National Association of Jewellers AGM, the HALO Award rewards effective online initiatives promoting the importance of hallmarking.
The award encourages all online retailers to review their hallmarking information and raise the profile of hallmarks.
Visit naj.co.uk/HALO for full details.
Date Published: 08 June 2023
Consultant physician Charles Mackworth-Young becomes the 696th Prime Warden
Charles Mackworth-Young, a Consultant Physician specialising in Rheumatology, has become Prime Warden (chairs the Board) of the Goldsmiths’ Company.
Date Published: 18 May 2023
Watch: Creating a hallmarking punch to commemorate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
To commemorate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, Assay Offices across the UK have issued a commemorative component mark which can be applied to all precious metals in addition to the hallmark.
Watch Engineers Pat and Simon creating the punch in the workshop, and General Manager Adam applying the mark at the Hall. Thank you to everyone involved in the making of the video shot by Lucy Emms.
Date Published: 05 May 2023
ASLEF Industrial Action: Friday 12 and Wednesday 31 May
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect both the train and tube networks in May.
The networks will be disrupted on Friday 12 and Wednesday 31 May. As a result our service on these days will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 9am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall aims to open at 9am and will close at 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 27 April 2023
The Cross of Wales: A historic commission by the Goldsmiths’ Company
- The Goldsmiths’ Company has led on a historic commission of a new processional cross, the Cross of Wales, by His Majesty The King, as Prince of Wales, to celebrate the centenary of the Church in Wales.
- The Cross of Wales – designed and made by master silversmith Michael Lloyd– will lead the Coronation procession at Westminster Abbey on 6 May.
- His Majesty The King hand struck The ‘King’s Mark’ onto the Cross of Wales during a visit to the Goldsmiths’ Centre in November 2022 – the first time in history that a monarch has applied The ‘King’s Mark’ (leopard’s head).
Date Published: 19 April 2023
May Bank Holidays 2023
There are three bank holidays in May - details of how they impact our opening hours are given here:
Early May bank holiday
Both counters will close at 4pm on Friday 28 April. The offices will reopen on Tuesday 2 May at 9am.
Please note One Hour packets need to be submitted 2 hours before closing.
Bank holiday for the Coronation of King Charles III
Both counters will close at 4pm on Friday 5 May. The offices will reopen on Tuesday 9 May at 9am.
Please note One Hour packets need to be submitted 2 hours before closing.
Spring bank holiday
Both counters will close at 4pm on Friday 26 May. The offices will reopen on Tuesday 30 May at 9am.
Please note One Hour packets need to be submitted 2 hours before closing.
Date Published: 11 April 2023
British Hallmarking Council reappoints Noel Hunter to serve third three-year term
The British Hallmarking Council (BHC) has announced the reappointment of current chair Noel Hunter to serve a third three-year term in office.
Date Published: 11 April 2023
The Make Your Mark award winners announced at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition 2023
For 2022/23, the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office and Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council teams came together once again to incorporate the Make Your Mark 2D Design Award in the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Competition.
Silver awards were announced at the ceremony last week for Saipranathi Sreeram for her entry "Pick Your Mark", and Qimeng Yang for her "Light the Skyline" design. Saipranthi was also awarded the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Award.
Date Published: 16 March 2023
Easter holiday 2023 hours
Goldsmiths’ Hall
Thursday 6 April – close at 12noon. The office will reopen on Tuesday 11 April at 9am.
Greville Street
Thursday 6 April – close at 12noon. The office will reopen on Tuesday 11 April at 9am.
Lead times will be impacted. Please note our post will not be collected on Thursday 6 April.
Date Published: 06 March 2023
New Trustmark Scheme to crackdown on counterfeit jewellery sold in the UK
The Assay Assured Trustmark scheme is to re-launch today, Wednesday 1 March 2023, with the support of all four UK Assay offices for the first time.
Businesses that sign up to the scheme can display Assay Office credentials to shoppers browsing their website. Details of the business’ registration are visible to shoppers giving them the assurance of adherence to the hallmarking law. An additional layer of reassurance is provided within the product itself if the hallmark cannot be seen in the product image.
Date Published: 01 March 2023
His Majesty King Charles III Coronation commemorative mark now available
- A new commemorative mark has been designed to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
- The King’s Coronation Mark can be requested from 1 March 2023 and will be available until 31 December 2024
- Historically, commemorative marks have been added to the regular hallmark to signify a special event
- The mark depicts the King’s head against an oval background
Date Published: 01 March 2023
Price announcement 2023
Our pricing has remained unchanged since 2020. Following two years of price freezes across our services, and after careful assessment, we must now inform you of a price increase.
Date Published: 01 March 2023
Tube and rail industrial action: 15, 16, 30 March
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect both the train and tube networks on Wednesday 15, Thursday 16 and Thursday 30 March.
As a result our service on the days will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 9am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall will be open 9am – 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 27 February 2023
Will Evans in Spring issue of The Jeweller
Read the interview with General Manager Will Evans in the Spring 2023 issue of The Jeweller magazine.
Date Published: 16 February 2023
Annual UK Hallmarking Figures for 2022
The total number of articles sent for hallmarking at all UK offices in 2022 rose by 12.2% to 9,748,288.
Gold, silver and platinum saw a rise in the quantity of articles hallmarked, palladium saw a decline.
Date Published: 10 February 2023
Touchstone winners make their mark
In June 2022 the British Hallmarking Council (BHC) Touchstone Award was presented at the CTSI Conference in Bristol. One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the Touchstone Special Recognition Award to intellectual property protection specialists WRi Group by National Association of Jewellers Chair Heather Callaway and BHC Chair Noel Hunter OBE.
As local authority services continue to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has severely reduced the capacity of Trading Standards services, the BHC took the opportunity to recognise WRi for the outstanding support that the company and its founder Graham Mogg have shown to the BHC and the Assay Offices in detecting and tracking unhallmarked and non-compliant jewellery being sold online in the UK.
Date Published: 08 February 2023
First King Charles III coins are tested at this year's Trial of the Pyx
The Royal Mint has today submitted nearly 10,000 coins for testing at the UK’s oldest judicial ceremony, the Trial of the Pyx, held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London. The coins are rigorously checked for fineness and quality by an independent jury of Goldsmiths’ Company members, before further scientific analysis by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office.
Date Published: 07 February 2023
Coronation commemorative mark announced by the British Hallmarking Council to honour His Majesty King Charles III
- A new commemorative mark has been designed to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
- The King’s Coronation Mark can be requested from 1 March 2023 and will be available until 31 December 2024
- Historically, commemorative marks have been added to the regular hallmark to signify a special event
- The mark depicts the King’s head against an oval background
Date Published: 30 January 2023
ASLEF Industrial Action: Wednesday 1 and Friday 3 February
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect both the train and tube networks on Wednesday 1 and Friday 3 February.
As a result our service on the day will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 9am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall will be open 9am – 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 24 January 2023
General Manager Will Evans gives review of the year
2021 was our busiest year since 2014. For 2022 we forecast a similar quantity of work, but in fact, we were hallmarking more work in 2022 than we did in 2021.
Date Published: 10 January 2023
Next Day/Early Hall packets posted on day of completion
In our November 2022 service announcement, we outlined that from Monday 28 November Next Day/Early Hall packets which are posted to us will be completed by the end of the next working day, posting out on this day of completion. Going forward we will continue with this timeframe.
Prior to this, we would post out packets on the day of receipt leaving us a very narrow timeframe to complete an increasingly large amount of work.
Date Published: 09 January 2023
Applications for Goldsmiths' Fair 2023 are open now
- Jewellers and silversmiths from across the UK are being invited to apply to Goldsmiths’ Fair 2023, taking place between 26 September – 8 October.
- Supporting independent jewellers and silversmiths for over four decades, Goldsmiths’ Fair brings together the UK’s most respected buyers, collectors, and curators within the magnificent Goldsmiths’ Hall to discover the most cutting edge and dynamic makers working with precious metals today.
- Applications are open to independent, UK based jewellers and silversmiths, who employ six (6) people or fewer at the bench.
- Applications open on Monday 9 January and close on Tuesday 28 February at 3pm.
Date Published: 09 January 2023
10 days left to enter! - The Make Your Mark award at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition 2022/23
Only 10 days to go until entries close on 15 January for the 2023 GC&DC Awards!
Read our brief and enter here.
Date Published: 05 January 2023
Date letter for 2023
Happy New Year! Date letter for 2023 is a lower case y.
A non-compulsory mark, the date letter changes annually on 1 January. The font, case, and shield shape all change so each can only indicate one specific year.
Date Published: 01 January 2023
RMT Industrial Action: 3, 4, 5, 6 January
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect the train networks in early January 2023. The networks will be disrupted on 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 January 2023.
Find out here how our services will be adapted.
Date Published: 23 December 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 23 and 24 December 2022
Royal Mail has reported there is planned industrial action by their sorting, delivery and collection teams on Friday 23, and Saturday 24 December 2022.
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
Further info here on the Royal Mail website.
Date Published: 21 December 2022
UPDATED: 2022 Christmas deadlines & holiday closing
Goldsmiths’ Hall and our Greville Street office will close at 1pm on Friday 23 December 2022. We will reopen at 9am on Tuesday 3 January 2023.
We have had an extremely busy run up to Christmas, and postal strikes and mail strikes have further impacted our turnaround times.
We are suspending our One Hour service for the rest of the year as a measure to help us deal with the work in hand.
Early Hall / Next Day packets must be received by Wednesday 21 December to guarantee completion. All packets must adhere to our submission and service rules.
We are working hard to complete all work received by 9 December.
Date Published: 19 December 2022
Inaugural Hallmarking Awareness Award presented to winners jewellerybox.co.uk
The inaugural Award for promoting Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) was presented to the jubilant winners, Alex McMillan and Nathan Amery of jewellerybox.co.uk at a sell-out Benevolent Society Christmas Ball in Birmingham on Thursday night.
Date Published: 14 December 2022
One Hour service suspended for week commencing 10 December 2022
As previously stated, our One Hour service will be suspended during RMT Industrial Action on Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14, Friday 16 December. We have taken the decision to suspend our One Hour service additionally on Monday 12, and Thursday 15 December.
From Saturday 10 December, any work submitted for One Hour turnaround will be processed under Next Day service. We will assess the availability of the One Hour service for the week commencing 19 December in due course.
We apologise for the disruption this causes. We acknowledge that postal, train strikes and increased demand, have led to longer lead times. We will be working tirelessly with the aim to complete all work we currently have in before the Christmas break as per our Christmas aims already released.
Date Published: 09 December 2022
Changes to packet service level not possible from 7 December 2022
From 7 December 2022 we are not able to adjust your packet. We are implementing this rule due to the time taken adjusting packets and the volume currently being processed.
Date Published: 07 December 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 9, 11, 14, 15 December 2022
Royal Mail has reported there is planned industrial action by their collection, sorting, and delivery teams on Friday 9, Sunday 11, Wednesday 14, Thursday 15 December 2022.
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
Further info here on the Royal Mail website.
Date Published: 06 December 2022
RMT Industrial Action: 13, 14, 16 December, and 3, 4, 6 January
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect the train networks in December 2022 and early January 2023. The networks will be disrupted on 13, 14, 16 and 17 December, and 3, 4, 6, and 7 January 2023.
Find out here how our services will be adapted.
Date Published: 05 December 2022
2022 Christmas deadlines & holiday closing
Both Goldsmiths’ Hall and our Greville Street office will close at 1pm on Friday 23 December 2022, and reopen at 9am on Tuesday 3 January 2023.
Cut offs:
We are anticipating an extremely busy run up to Christmas, and postal strikes and rail strikes will further impact our turnaround times.
To guarantee your work is ready before we close, standard service packets must be submitted by Friday 9 December. Early Hall / next day packets must be received by Wednesday 21 December. 1 hour packets will be accepted up until 11am on Friday 23 December. Packets must adhere to our submission and service rules.
There are currently no further planned service restrictions / packet limitations.
Date Published: 01 December 2022
Service adaptations at 28 November 2022
From Monday 28 November, Next Day/Early Hall packets which are posted to us will be completed by the end of the next working day, posting out on this day of completion.
Read more.
Date Published: 28 November 2022
His Majesty The King visits The Goldsmiths’ Centre, Clerkenwell, Wednesday 23 November 2022
The King visited the Goldsmiths’ Centre on Wednesday 23 November to celebrate the Centre’s 10-year anniversary. The King also hallmarked, with the King’s Mark, a silver Processional Cross for the Church in Wales. Deputy General Manager Adam Phillips provided guidance.
Date Published: 23 November 2022
One month remains to request the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark
In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, seventy years of service, having acceded to the throne in 1952.
To celebrate the occasion, the body which oversees UK hallmarking, the British Hallmarking Council, sanctioned a commemorative component mark.
1 month remains to request the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark, as we must cease to apply it by the end of the year.
Date Published: 22 November 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 24, 25, 30 November and 1 December 2022
Royal Mail has reported there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Thursday 24, Friday 25, Wednesday 30 November and Thursday 1 December 2022.
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
Further info here on the Royal Mail website.
Date Published: 14 November 2022
Tube strikes - Thursday 10 November
On Thursday 10 November there are strikes planned on the Tube. There will be limited or no Tube services running. It is expected that this strike will cause severe disruption and the closure of many Tube stations - if our teams can't get to work, or are delayed, our services may be affected.
We will update our website News area, and our social media channels if changes to our service are made.
Date Published: 09 November 2022
Will Evans featured in Financial Times Watches & Jewellery supplement
In today’s Financial Times Watches & Jewellery supplement there is a profile piece on General Manager Will Evans and hallmarking at the Assay Office.
Read "Will Evans: The testing times for UK jewellery hallmarking" online here.
Date Published: 04 November 2022
RMT Industrial Action: 5, 7, 9 November
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect both the train and tube networks in early November.
The networks will be disrupted on Saturday 5, Monday 7, and Wednesday 9 November. As a result our service on Monday 7 and Wednesday 9 will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 10am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall will be open 10am – 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Details are here on the National Rail website.
Date Published: 01 November 2022
Delays to outgoing post packets 1.11.22
The Royal Mail system which enables us to generate special delivery tracking numbers and labels is currently down.
This means there are delays in sending out your packets while we wait for them to rectify this issue.
Apologies for the inconvenience caused.
Date Published: 01 November 2022
Two months remain to request the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark
In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, seventy years of service, having acceded to the throne in 1952.
To celebrate the occasion, the body which oversees UK hallmarking, the British Hallmarking Council, sanctioned a commemorative component mark.
2 months remain to request the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark, as we must cease to apply it by the end of the year.
Date Published: 31 October 2022
Discover Britain magazine goes behind the scenes at the Goldsmiths' Company
Journalist Kate Youde wrote about the Assay Office for the recent issue of Discover Britain magazine.
Read "Kate Youde goes behind the scenes of the Goldsmiths’ Company and meets some of the people upholding the traditions of the 700-year-old institution – one of the oldest consumer watchdogs in the world" online here.
Date Published: 27 October 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 25 October 2022
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Tuesday 25 October 2022.
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
It is being reported that Royal Mail workers are to hold 19 days of strike action during the peak postal build-up to Christmas. Please factor this into your work schedule.
Further dates for Royal Mail industrial action are shown here.
Date Published: 24 October 2022
2022 Christmas deadlines and holiday closing
Both Goldsmiths’ Hall and our Greville Street office will close at 1pm on Friday 23 December 2022, and reopen at 9am on Tuesday 3 January 2023.
Cut offs:
We are anticipating an extremely busy run up to Christmas, and postal strikes and rail strikes will further impact our turnaround times.
To guarantee your work is ready before we close, standard service packets must be submitted by Friday 9 December. Early Hall / next day packets must be received by Wednesday 21 December. 1 hour packets will be accepted up until 11am on Friday 23 December. Packets must adhere to our submission and service rules.
There are currently no further planned service restrictions / packet limitations.
Date Published: 20 October 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 20 October 2022
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Thursday 20 October 2022..
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
It is being reported that Royal Mail workers are to hold 19 days of strike action during the peak postal build-up to Christmas. Please factor this into your work schedule.
Date Published: 07 October 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 13 October 2022
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Thursday 13 October 2022..
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
It is being reported that Royal Mail workers are to hold 19 days of strike action during the peak postal build-up to Christmas. Please factor this into your work schedule.
Date Published: 06 October 2022
Royal Mail industrial action Autumn 2022
It is being reported that Royal Mail workers are to hold 19 days of strike action during the peak postal build-up to Christmas. Please factor this into your work schedule. Currently, dates given for industrial action are:
- Thursday 13 October
- Thursday 20 October
- Tuesday 25 October
- Monday 28 November
Royal Mail strike updates are found on their website here.
The strikes mean there will be systemic delays in processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
Date Published: 30 September 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 30 September 2022
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Friday 30 September 2022.
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
It is being reported that Royal Mail workers are to hold 19 days of strike action during the peak postal build-up to Christmas. Please factor this into your work schedule.
Date Published: 28 September 2022
ASLEF Industrial Action: Wednesday 5th October
Industrial action planned by rail workers will affect both the train and tube networks next week.
The networks will be disrupted on Wednesday 5 October. As a result our service on the day will be adapted as follows:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 10am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall will be open 10am – 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 27 September 2022
Why is my priority packet delayed?
In August's newsletter we outlined some instances which delay your packet's progress. The following can mean your work fall's out of the timescale requested...
Date Published: 23 September 2022
The Make Your Mark award at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition 2022/23
For 2022/23, the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office and Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council teams have come together again to run the Make Your Mark 2D Design Award in the Goldsmiths’ competition.
Our brief asks you to design an item of jewellery, smallwork or silverware that promotes, enhances and celebrates the London Hallmark.
Date Published: 23 September 2022
Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark to be made available again
Over the course of the last week the four Assay Offices of the UK have received a huge number of requests from the trade and the public in support of continuing the application of the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark.
After consultation with the King's Assay Master, the four Assay Offices of the UK are pleased to announce that from Tuesday 20th of September the Platinum Jubilee Mark will be made available again. The mark will remain available until the end of 2022, as originally scheduled.
Date Published: 15 September 2022
Bank holiday Monday 19 September 2022, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral
The counter at Goldsmiths’ Hall will close on Friday 16 September at 5pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 20 September at 10am.
The counter at Greville Street will close on Friday 16 September at 5pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 20 September at 9am.
Date Published: 12 September 2022
Withdrawal of Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark
Yesterday Buckingham Palace announced the very sad news of the passing of our long-reigning monarch, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. As a mark of respect, the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark will now be withdrawn from use by the four Assay Offices of the United Kingdom.
Any items that have already been submitted or pre-scheduled for marking with the Platinum Jubilee mark will be processed as promised, but with immediate effect, no further new submissions for the commemorative mark will be accepted.
The commemorative mark was originally planned to be applied until the end of Her Majesty's platinum Jubilee year in December 2022.
Date Published: 09 September 2022
Kheni Priest announced as new Production Control Manager
We are extremely happy to announce Kheni Priest as our new Production Control Manager. She takes the role from Kevin Bowles who retired last week after 43 years at the Assay Office.
Date Published: 05 September 2022
Podcast: Promoting your hallmark online
The British Hallmarking Council in partnership with the National Association of Jewellers have launched the Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) Awards to recognise excellence in the promotion of hallmarking.
Our Marketing Manager, Charlotte Turner sat down on the Jewellers Academy Podcast to discuss the awards.
Date Published: 22 August 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 26, 30, and 31 August, 8 and 9 September
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Friday 26, Tuesday 30, and Wednesday 31 August and for two days on Thursday 8 and Friday 9 September 2022.
There will be systemic delays processing parcels through the Royal Mail system, and in turn, our production line. Please note, our priority packet charges will still apply.
Date Published: 15 August 2022
Kevin Bowles to retire
Production Manager Kevin Bowles retires at the end of the month. He started work at the Assay Office in 1979 and spent 5 years as an apprentice. Congratulations on 43 years!
Date Published: 15 August 2022
RMT Industrial Action: Thursday 18th and Friday 19th August
Industrial action planned by the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union will affect both the train and tube networks next week.
The train networks will be disrupted on Thursday 18th and the tube network on Friday 19th August. As a result, on both days:
- Our One Hour service will be suspended.
- The Greville Street counter aims to open at 10am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
- Goldsmiths’ Hall will be open 10am – 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work. During this period we will not be able to change the service originally requested on your packet.
Date Published: 10 August 2022
Summer Bank Holiday, August 2022
The next bank holiday in England and Wales is Summer bank holiday on the 29 August 2022.
The counter at Goldsmiths’ Hall will close on Friday 26 August at 4pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 30 August at 10am.
The counter at Greville Street will close on Friday 26 August at 4pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 30 August at 9am.
Date Published: 04 August 2022
Winners announced: Make Your Mark kid's competition
To celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, we invited young makers (aged 10 and under) to make their mark, in the London Assay Office (LAO) Make Your Mark Kids Competition.
We had loads of wonderful entries, which made the task of choosing winners no small feat. Thankfully our judging panel made up of members of the LAO and the team at Thomas Fattorini Ltd know their way around a Mark, and through a rigorous judging process selected our five lucky winners.
Date Published: 29 July 2022
RMT and TSSA Industrial Action: Wednesday 27 July
Industrial action is planned by the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, and the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) on 27 July. This will affect both the train and tube networks.
As a result, our One Hour service will be suspended Wednesday 27 July. Goldsmiths' Hall will close at 3pm.
Further services may be disrupted if many of our teams are unable to get to work.
Date Published: 25 July 2022
Changes to our systems
In the coming months, we will be changing our online systems to a cloud based provider - Netsuite. This will make our website and systems more resilient, and improve the capabilities of what they can do for you, and us.
Archived packet data will cease to be accessible - notably access to old invoices will end as we transfer to a digital invoicing system. Please consider downloading copies of invoices that you will need for accounting purposes now.
Date Published: 06 July 2022
Counter hours on 21 July 2022
Both the Greville Street counter, and Goldsmiths' Hall counter will close at 12 noon on 21 July 2022.
While we understand this will be inconvenient, we want to gather our teams to reward and thank them for working incredibly hard during a long period of unprecedented challenges since 2020.
- This means that we will not accept One Hour packets on 21 July.
- Early Hall / Next Day packets submitted on the morning of 21 July will be ready on Friday 22 July.
- We will aim to complete Early Hall / Next Day packets which are submitted on 20 July on 21 July, but these may only be ready on 22 July.
Date Published: 04 July 2022
Royal Mail industrial action 14 July
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their delivery and collection teams on Thursday 14 July. It is unlikely that the post will arrive or leave Goldsmiths' Hall on that day so there will be a delay in parcels being returned to you.
Date Published: 01 July 2022
Video: New counter area at Goldsmiths' Hall
A new Assay Office counter area at the Hall was unveiled in the Spring, and the redesign features some striking signwriting.
Film by Lucy Emms.
Date Published: 28 June 2022
Video: The Queen's Platinum Jubilee - Melanie Eddy: The Meaning Behind the Marks
To discover the story behind a modern Maker's mark, we visited jeweller Melanie Eddy in her studio at the Goldsmiths' Centre, learned about the unique Sponsor's mark that is applied to her pieces at the London Assay Office, and discussed her feelings about applying the Platinum Jubilee mark to her work.
Date Published: 27 June 2022
RMT Industrial Action: Tuesday 21 June 2022
Plans to open on Tuesday 21 June are as follows:
The Greville Street counter aims to open at 9am, but will close at 3pm, with a half hour closure 12pm – 12.30pm.
Goldsmiths’ Hall will be open 10am – 5pm.
All of our services will be severely disrupted with many of our teams unable to get to work.
- Our One Hour service will be suspended Monday 20 - Friday 24 June.
- Our Next Day service will be accepted Monday 20 - Friday 24 June - packets will be dealt with as a priority but may not be ready for the next day.
Date Published: 13 June 2022
Industrial Action by the RMT will impact our services 20 - 24 June
Industrial action is planned by the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union on 21, 23 and 25 June. This will affect both the train and tube networks.
As a result, all of our services will be severely disrupted and our offices may have to close if many of our staff are unable to get to work.
Should the strikes go ahead services may be adapted as follows:
Date Published: 12 June 2022
Video: The Meaning Behind the Marks: Hallmarking in the Platinum Jubilee Year with James French
The Goldsmiths' Company visited jeweller and silversmith James French of JWF Unique Designs to find out more about what the Platinum Jubilee mark means to him and the significance it holds when making a piece of jewellery.
Date Published: 08 June 2022
Video: Designing the Platinum Jubilee Mark: Thomas Fattorini Ltd
Video: The Goldsmiths' Company visits Tom Fattorini of Thomas Fattorini Ltd to find out more about the collaborative process behind the designing of the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark.
Date Published: 06 June 2022
Little pieces of history: A brief exploration of Commemorative Marks
The week of the Platinum Jubilee feels like a golden opportunity to introduce five examples of extraordinary modern work in precious metal from the Goldsmiths’ Company collection. They all celebrate an important event within Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, and (nearly) all of them bear the corresponding commemorative mark
Date Published: 01 June 2022
Industrial Action will affect both postal and tube services on Monday 6 June - our services may be affected
Royal Mail has informed us that there is planned industrial action by their collection team on Monday 6 June. It is unlikely that the post will leave Goldsmiths' Hall on that day so there will be a delay in parcels reaching you.
In addition, on the same day, London Underground workers from the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union will stage 24-hour walkouts in a dispute over jobs and pensions. It is expected that this strike will cause severe disruption and the closure of many Tube stations - if our teams can't get to work, or are delayed, our services may be affected.
Date Published: 30 May 2022
Make Your Mark Kid's Competition
Kids across the UK are being encouraged to get crafty over the Platinum Jubilee weekend by creating their own maker’s mark, as part of the Jubilee celebrations. The Make Your Mark Kid’s Competition, launched by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office (London Assay Office), is open to anyone aged 10 and under.
Date Published: 27 May 2022
Lord Bridges becomes new Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company
- Mark Bridges, KCVO, (Lord Bridges), former Private Solicitor to the Queen and a legal expert with an international reputation, has become Prime Warden (chairs the Board) of the Goldsmiths’ Company.
- Mark is the 695th Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company – a new Prime Warden is elected every year.
- Mark currently holds a number of international non-executive roles as well as remaining Senior Counsel to Farrer & Co.
- Mark became a Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company and of the City of London in 1991, a Liveryman in 2000, and joined the Company’s Court of Assistants (Board-equivalent) in 2006.
Date Published: 26 May 2022
Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) award
The British Hallmarking Council, in collaboration with The National Association of Jewellers have launched the Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) Award to recognise excellence in the promotion of hallmarking.
The award will be won by the most effective online initiative relating to the display of the new Digital Dealers Notice and the education surrounding British Hallmarking.
Date Published: 12 May 2022
Counter hours - Queen’s Platinum Jubilee extended bank holiday
A special extended bank holiday weekend to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee takes place from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 June 2022. This means we will close earlier on Wednesday 1 June, details as follows:
The counter at Goldsmiths’ Hall will close on Wednesday 1 June at 4pm. The office will reopen on Monday 6 June at 10am.
The counter at Greville Street will close on Wednesday 1 June at 4pm. The office will reopen on Monday 6 June at 9am.
Date Published: 11 May 2022
Kheni Priest, Greville Street Supervisor, gives Retail Jeweller careers interview
Kheni Priest, Greville Street Supervisor, was interviewed for Retail Jeweller careers section, and can be read in their May digital edition here.
Date Published: 09 May 2022
Chancellor receives positive verdict on the nation’s coinage
- Chancellor Rishi Sunak received a positive verdict on this year’s Trial of the Pyx - as Master of the Mint he is held responsible for the result of the Trial, one of the UK’s oldest judicial processes that protects consumers and ensures the quality of the nation’s coinage is upheld.
- The Trial of the Pyx is the oldest form of independent quality control still in use today, first recorded in 1248, to ensure the quality and accuracy of the nation’s coinage. The Queen’s Beasts 10kg gold coin is the largest coin to have ever been submitted to the Trial.
- A Jury made up of members of the Goldsmiths’ Company, confirmed that British coins had once again met regulatory standards.
- The Verdict is the last stage of the annual Trial, which started in January and is presided over by the Queen’s Remembrancer, an ancient judicial post.
- The Trial has been held at Goldsmiths’ Hall continuously since 1871.
Date Published: 06 May 2022
Hallmark as Hero
Sophia Tobin, Goldsmiths' Company Deputy Librarian, recounts the enduring necessity and appeal of the hallmark: In the Goldsmiths’ Company’s library, we see a lot of heirlooms. Images of brooches, spoons and soup tureens wing their way to us with the question ‘can you tell me the story of this?’. It isn’t always within our power to tell those enquirers exactly what they want to know - how their grandparents met, for example. But, if we have a clear hallmark, we can tell where and when a piece was marked; who made it or brought it for hallmarking; and what fineness of metal it is. This slightly different story might not be romantic, but it is important, with its roots far back in a time of chivalry. It is a story of justice and protection which has endured through many challenges, including the disruptions of today’s world.
Date Published: 03 May 2022
Early May Bank Holiday 2022
Goldsmiths’ Hall: On Friday 29 April the counter will close at 2.30pm. The counter will reopen on Tuesday 3 May at 10am.
Greville Street: On Friday 29 April the counter will close at 4pm. The counter will reopen on Tuesday 3 May at 9am.
Date Published: 21 April 2022
Website card payment issues - please follow these steps
We are aware of payment issues for saved cards and are working on resolving them.
If you are experiencing payment problems, please follow the steps outlined here to allow for payment processing.
Date Published: 11 April 2022
Easter Holiday 2022 Hours
Goldsmiths’ Hall
Thursday 14 April – close at 2.30pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 19 April at 10am.
Greville Street
Thursday 14 April – close at 4pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 19 April at 9am.
Date Published: 04 April 2022
Pricing announcement 2022
Following an unprecedented year of events, we are very happy to announce that we are freezing our prices for another year across all our services.
It is the second year running that there is no increase to our prices.
Date Published: 10 March 2022
Laser engraving service changes from 1 April 2022
Our laser machines cut both your hallmarks and your engraving requests, and naturally we must prioritise hallmarking over requests for lettering and logos.
Our data shows that moderate and complex bespoke laser engraving requests add considerable time to the average turnaround of our hallmarking service.
We need to quicken our turnaround times and increase our capacity to apply laser cut hallmarks – as a result we will only apply simple laser engraving requests from 1 April 2022.
What is a simple laser engraving? Find out here.
Date Published: 09 March 2022
Annual UK Hallmarking Figures for 2021
The total number of articles sent for hallmarking at all UK offices in 2021 rose by 47.7% to 8,687,131.
Gold, silver and platinum saw a rise in the quantity of articles hallmarked, palladium saw a decline.
Date Published: 04 February 2022
2022 Trial of the Pyx sees largest coin in Royal Mint's history
• The Queen’s Beasts 10kg gold coin is one of the coins being sent to the Trial of the Pyx, an annual judicial process that upholds the quality of the nation’s coinage.
• As the responsibility of the Goldsmiths’ Company, the 700-year-old Trial ensures every coin made by the Royal Mint meets a strict set of standards aimed at protecting consumers.
• The 10kg gold coin will be the largest coin to have been tested at the Trial and will be assessed by a jury of Goldsmiths’ Company members for its fineness and quality.
Date Published: 03 February 2022
The making of the Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark
In celebration of Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, Assay Offices across the UK have issued a Platinum Jubilee Mark which can be applied to all metals in addition to the hallmark.
Watch our expert engineers and technicians, creating and applying the mark, including Hallmark Technician Kheni Priest and Workshop Manager Pat Geary.
Date Published: 31 January 2022
Will Evans gives a round up of 2021, and outlines aims for 2022
Will Evans gives a round up of 2021, and outlines aims for 2022
Date Published: 31 January 2022
Touchstone Award success stories
The dedication and inventiveness of the winners of the 2021 Touchstone Award highlight the importance of hallmarking enforcement.
Date Published: 07 January 2022
COVID infections affecting Assay Office services and completion dates
Urgent information from Will Evans, General Manager:
Due to a number of staff in the Assay Office contracting COVID we can no longer guarantee that:
• We will reach our target of completing all Standard Service work submitted by 10 December 2021.
• We will complete Early Hall packets received after the 17 December 2021.
Date Published: 16 December 2021
Simon, Will and Robert - congratulations on 20 years' service!
Congratulations to Simon, Will, and Robert, who last week were presented with silver beakers to celebrate 20 years of working for the Goldsmiths' Company.
Date Published: 08 December 2021
Planned maintenance work to website
Please be aware that we have planned maintenance work to the website tonight between 7pm-8pm.
You will be unable to submit your packets, and pay online during this hour. assayofficelondon.co.uk
Date Published: 06 December 2021
2021 Christmas deadlines and holiday closing
Goldsmiths’ Hall will close at 3.30pm on Thursday 23 December 2021, and reopen at 10am on Tuesday 4 January 2022.
Greville Street will close at 5pm on Thursday 23 December 2021, and reopen at 9am on Tuesday 4 January 2022
Cut offs...
Date Published: 29 November 2021
Chancellor Rishi Sunak passes the annual Trial of the Pyx
• Rishi Sunak has passed the Trial of the Pyx - as Master of the Mint he is held responsible for the result of the Trial - one of the UK’s oldest judicial processes that protects consumers and ensures the quality of the nation’s coinage is upheld.
• A Jury, made up of members of the Goldsmiths’ Company, confirmed that British coins had once again met regulatory standards
• 16,000 coins from The Royal Mint went on 'trial' at Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London in June this year, before further laboratory tests were organised by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office to assess metallic composition.
Date Published: 24 November 2021
Economic Secretary to the Treasury visits the Assay Office
19th November 2021 marked the day of the Verdict of the Pyx. The Verdict follows on from the Trail of the Pyx where the nation's coinage is counted and sent off for testing by our team at the Assay Office.
Pictured is John Glen MP Economic Secretary to the Treasury examining the hallmark with Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark that he applied when he visited the Assay Office on the day of the Verdict. He attended on behalf of Rishi Sunak, Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Date Published: 24 November 2021
Service expectations as we head toward Christmas
To help you manage expectations for your hallmarking, Customer Service Manager, Adam Phillips, gives more detail about our services in the run up to Christmas.
Date Published: 05 November 2021
The Make Your Mark award at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition 2021/22
For 2021/2022, the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office and Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council teams have come together to run the Make Your Mark 2D Design Award in the Goldsmiths’ competition.
Our brief asks you to design any item, product or jewel that promotes, enhances and celebrate the London Hallmark. Read More.
Our brief asks you to design any item, product or jewel that promotes, enhances and celebrate the London Hallmark. Read More.
Of additional interest and appeal, entries can incorporate the brand-new commemorative mark that has been designed to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.
The deadline for entries is 9 January 2022.
Date Published: 05 November 2021
British Hallmarking Council issues guidance on hallmarking of partially constructed items
Assay Offices can apply hallmarks to partially constructed items, providing certain conditions are met. These conditions are designed to ensure that the finished article complies with the Hallmarking Act.
The BHC’s guidance sets out the conditions as follows:
Date Published: 15 October 2021
Hallmarking Dealers Notice goes digital alongside launch of new H.A.L.O. Award
• New free digital Dealers Notice launched to support sale of items online
• Retailers now have a choice of how to display the Dealers Notice
• The online Dealers Notice will encourage engagement with customers, indicate responsible and lawful trading, and help explain the role and value of the Hallmark
• Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online (HALO) award launched for businesses promoting hallmarking compliance to the benefit of consumer protection
Date Published: 14 October 2021
The Assay Offices of the UK announce Platinum Jubilee commemorative mark available from 1 November 2021
• A new commemorative mark has been designed to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
• The mark can be requested from 1st November 2021
• Historically, commemorative marks have been added to the regular hallmark to signify a special event
• The mark, designed by Thomas Fattorini Ltd, depicts an orb, and reflects the traditional fineness mark for platinum
Date Published: 05 October 2021
Assay Office team takes part in Tour De City 2021
Assay Office staff - Will Evans, General Manager and Adam Phillips, Customer Service Manager joined forces with colleagues from The Goldsmiths' Company to take place in the Tour de City static bike challenge for this year's City Giving Day, an initiative that forms part of the Lord Mayor's Appeal.
Date Published: 27 September 2021
Will Evans promoted to General Manager of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office
- Will Evans is promoted to the new role of General Manager of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office
- Robert Organ, following his retirement as Deputy Warden in October, will take up a new role as Senior Hallmarking Consultant to the Assay Office
Date Published: 27 August 2021
Will Evans' overview of service adaptions
Will Evans, Superintendent Assayer, gives an overview of services - and how and why they've been adapted throughout the pandemic.
Date Published: 04 August 2021
A reminder on sponsor's mark punch renewal
How you renew your sponsor’s mark registration has changed. You will now be notified about this in the “My Account” area of the online account. Six months before your sponsor's mark is due to expire a box will appear there notifying you that it is due for renewal.
Full information can be found here. Our Terms and Conditions have been updated to reflect this.
Date Published: 30 July 2021
Three British Hallmarking Council vacancies
The Secretary of State is seeking to appoint three new members to the British Hallmarking Council. One with a background in the trade of precious metals, one with a consumer protection background and one independent. They will each serve for a term of three years.
Date Published: 01 July 2021
Greville Street counter hours - July 2021
Our Greville Street, Hatton Garden office will resume counter hours of 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday by the end of the month. However, we must also introduce a closure of one hour between 12noon and 1pm to accommodate staff breaks.
Requests for the one hour service have increased significantly. We feel that a closure for one hour is the best way to manage this demand, while half the team works on packets, and half have their break.
We have considered other options, such as withdrawing the service entirely, but feel this is the best approach to satisfy your requests and ensure staff's wellbeing. We thank you in advance for your understanding.
More details to Greville Street customers will follow on email.
Date Published: 01 July 2021
Kheni Priest, Greville Street Supervisor, explains the benefits of online packet submission
"We love the online submission system! The main reason for that is because it reduces the chance of error. We found that only 3% of packets submitted using the paper hallnote were submitted with all of the correct information....
Date Published: 07 June 2021
Dame Lynne Brindley becomes new Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company
The Goldsmiths’ Company is delighted to announce that Dame Lynne Brindley has taken office as Prime Warden, in succession to Richard Fox, one of the country’s leading silversmiths.
Date Published: 26 May 2021
Spring Bank Holiday 2021
Spring Bank holiday 2021 hours:
Goldsmiths’ Hall
Friday 28 May – close at 3.30pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 1 June at 10am.
Greville Street
Friday 28 May – close at 4.30pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 1 June at 10am.
A reminder of our current service adaptations can be found here.
Date Published: 24 May 2021
Gearry Suen wins Technological Innovation Award in the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Competition
We are proud to sponsor the Technological Innovation Award in the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Competition. A silver award was presented at the ceremony on 17 May 2021 to Gearry Suen.
Date Published: 19 May 2021
The Make Your Mark award winners announced at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition
For 2020/21, the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office and Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council teams came together to create the Make Your Mark 2D Design Award in the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Competition.
Our brief asked you to design an item of jewellery, smallwork or silverware that promotes, enhances and celebrates the London Hallmark.
Gold, silver and bronze awards were announced at the ceremony last night.
Date Published: 18 May 2021
Interview with Adam Phillips, Customer Service Manager
What has been the biggest challenge for you and your team during the pandemic?
Our biggest challenge is change. We have had to adapt a lot, and fast. The pandemic quickened the improvement of our online services.
We have significantly increased and improved the information on our website basing it on the user experience. How you use our website continues to inform its development. There are instruction pages on how to submit a packet online, how to pay online, and how to renew your sponsor’s mark registration.
Date Published: 03 May 2021
Dr Robert Organ, Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, to retire after 21 years in the hallmarking industry
The Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office in London, Dr Robert Organ, is to retire after 21 years of service.
Robert began his career at the Goldsmiths’ Company in 2000 as Superintendent Assayer of the London Assay Office, before taking over as Deputy Warden (Managing Director-equivalent) in 2006. The Goldsmiths’ Company has been responsible for guaranteeing the purity of items made of precious metals since 1300, when the hallmarking statute was passed.
Date Published: 30 April 2021
Early May Bank Holiday 2021
Early May Bank holiday 2021 hours:
Goldsmiths’ Hall
Friday 30 April – close at 2pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 4 May at 10am.
Greville Street
Friday 30 April – close at 4pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 4 May at 10am.
Date Published: 26 April 2021
No price increase for our core services
Following a challenging year, we are very happy to announce that we have frozen our prices across all of our core services. This means there are no changes to the price of applying a hallmark.
Date Published: 30 March 2021
Easter Holiday 2021 Hours
Goldsmiths’ Hall
Thursday 1 April – close at 2pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 6 April at 10am.
Greville Street
Thursday 1 April – close at 4pm. The office will reopen on Tuesday 6 April at 10am.
Date Published: 26 March 2021
Help to streamline our service - submit your packets online
Join the 70% of our customers who are now using the online packet submission. The system guides you to complete the process.
Date Published: 22 March 2021
Kevin Bowles, Production Control Manager
This month, Kevin Bowles has moved from his role as Heathrow Sub-Office Manager to Production Control Manager.
This means he will oversee production at all of our sites across London - Goldsmiths' Hall, Greville Street, and Heathrow, plus our two private hallmarking facilities within Graff, Mayfair and Allied Gold, Dalston.
He brings 42 years experience to the role, having started work for the Assay Office in 1979 as an apprentice.
Date Published: 09 March 2021
International Women's Day 2021 - Eliza Godfrey
In celebration of International Women's Day today we are sharing images from the Goldsmiths’ Archive and the Goldsmiths' Company Collection which show Eliza Godfrey’s hallmark, sponsor's mark, and tea caddy.
Date Published: 08 March 2021
Jewellers Academy Podcast Episode 39 - Hallmarking
Marketing Manager Charlotte Turner, and Customer Service Manager Adam Phillips were guests on The Jewellers Academy Podcast, episode.
Read more and find out how to hear the podcast.
Date Published: 08 March 2021
The Goldsmiths’ Company Charity’s studentships in precious metals at Cambridge University
In November 2018, the Goldsmiths’ Company Charity announced that it would support three new PhD studentships at Cambridge University in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy with expertise and guidance from The Goldsmiths' Company Assay Office, to help further the UK's position as a leader in precious metals research. The association with the Company goes back 100 years when a grant from the Goldsmiths' Company helped found the department dedicated to the study of metallurgy on 5th October 1920.
The recipients of the studentships, Owain Houghton (Queens College) and Ayush Prasad (Robinson College) are now entering their second year. Read more about their research projects and the Charity's support for the department here.
Date Published: 03 March 2021
Goldsmiths' Fair: Designs on Silver exhibition
A new online exhibition, Designs on Silver explores the role of design drawings in the art of the contemporary silversmith.
Explore the exhibition, and the stories behind the drawings, here.
All the pieces discussed are from The Goldsmiths’ Company’s Collection.
Date Published: 12 February 2021
Cheque payment
A reminder that with effect from Monday 1 March 2021, we will no longer be accepting cheques as a form of payment.
Please pay for your packet by card at the counter, or online.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Date Published: 01 February 2021
Antique Plate Committee in the press
The Independent article - "Inside the Goldsmiths' Company: how forensic experts take down the UK's biggest silver forgers".
Date Published: 29 January 2021
Annual UK Hallmarking Figures for 2020
The total number of articles sent for hallmarking at all UK offices in 2020 fell by 32.2% to 5,879,162.
Gold, silver, platinum and palladium saw a decline in the quantity of articles hallmarked.
Date Published: 25 January 2021
January 2021 lockdown - we are remaining open
We are pleased to announce that we can remain open under new national restrictions which were announced on 4th January.
We will continue to follow COVID-secure guidelines to protect customers and our staff.
All operating updates including opening hours, and service adaptations, are listed on our website here assayofficelondon.co.uk/covid-19. Current opening hours at Goldsmiths' Hall are 10.00 - 14.00, and 10.00 - 16.00 at Greville Street.
Date Published: 05 January 2021
The Make Your Mark awards form part of the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council competition
For 2020/21, the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office and Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council teams have come together to create the Make Your Mark 2D Design Award in the Goldsmiths’ competition.
Date Published: 04 January 2021
Date letter for 2021
The date letter for 2021 will be a lower case w as shown.
A non-compulsory mark, the date letter changes annually on 1 January. The font, case, and shield shape all change so each can only indicate one specific year.
Both Goldsmiths' Hall and the Greville Street office will open at 10am on 4 January 2021.
Date Published: 31 December 2020
Brexit: Hallmarking requirements to change for importers and exporters
From 1 January 2021, the UK’s obligations to recognise EU hallmarks will end and EU members’ obligations to recognise UK hallmarks will also end.
Date Published: 21 December 2020
Urgent update to our Christmas service
We are updating our Christmas service with immediate effect, due to several members of staff being asked to self-isolate due to Covid-19.
Urgent adaptations have been made to our service to ensure we can continue to support you, our customers, while also protecting our staff. The health and safety of our staff and customers is our number one priority.
Date Published: 14 December 2020
Christmas Hours 2020
Please note our Christmas closing times:
Goldsmiths’ Hall will close at 4pm on Wednesday 23 December 2020.
Greville Street will close at 4pm on Wednesday 23 December 2020.
2021 Opening:
Goldsmiths’ Hall will reopen at 10am on Monday 4 January 2021
Greville Street will reopen at 10am on Monday 4 January 2021
Date Published: 04 December 2020
New national restrictions - we are remaining open
We are pleased to announce that we can remain open under new national restrictions which come into effect on 5 November. We will make regular updates throughout the developing situation.
Date Published: 02 November 2020
How to renew your sponsor's mark registration
The way to renew your sponsor’s mark registration is changing. You will now be notified about this in the “My Account” area of the online account. First, please make sure your invoicing address is up to date.
Date Published: 08 October 2020
Extension of Goldsmiths' Hall opening hours | Service Reminder
From 5 October, the counter at Goldsmiths' Hall will be open 9am - 2pm, Monday - Friday.
Date Published: 01 October 2020
Extension of Greville Street opening hours
From Monday 5 October our Greville Street office will extend their opening hours to 10am - 4pm, Monday - Friday.
They will continue to only offer a priority service option to match the output of a reduced team. This means that only One Hour and Early Hall (next day) services are available there.
Please note, one hour packets must be submitted by 3pm. There will be no time-bound financial guarantees. If your punch is not held at Greville Street we can only apply a laser hallmark on a priority service.
Date Published: 30 September 2020
SILVER IN THE FAST LANE - In conversation with Richard Fox
As part of London Craft Week Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths' Company Richard Fox will be giving a free to attend talk hosted by Contemporary British Silversmiths with former Chair Angela Cork.
Date Published: 28 September 2020
A Reminder Of Current Services
While we continue to scale up our operations we are still working with some limitations. Please keep an eye on our website News for the latest information, and make sure we have the correct email address and permissions so we can contact you directly with updates - you can set these in your Account area online.
An overview of operations:
Opening times - Goldsmiths' Hall counter is operating 10am - 1pm, Monday to Friday, and Greville Street counter is operating 11am - 3pm, Monday to Friday.
continued...
Date Published: 28 August 2020
August Bank Holiday Closure 2020
Goldsmiths’ Hall will close at 1pm on Friday 28th August 2020 and re-open at 10am on Tuesday 1st September 2020.
The Greville Street office will close at 3pm on Friday 28th August 2020 and re-open at 11am on Tuesday 1st September 2020.
Date Published: 24 August 2020
Submit your articles to the Antique Plate Committee's September meeting
The Antique Plate Committee meet on a quarterly basis. For the September 2020 meeting, goods need to be submitted for inclusion by August 19th. More information here.
Date Published: 13 August 2020
Goldsmiths' Fair goes digital
• Goldsmiths’ Fair launches first digital Fair in 38-year history
• Goldsmiths’ Fair will provide a NEW online platform for fine jewellers and contemporary silversmiths in 2020
• The online platform will support business recovery for sole traders and micro-businesses creating and making in UK today
• 130 fine jewellers and contemporary silversmiths will exhibit at the online Fair
• Exhibitors use exceptional handmaking skills to create their pieces, applying techniques that have been passed down over hundreds of years.
• The Goldsmiths’ Company is committed to supporting the craft and trade for the long term, as it has done for the last seven centuries.
• The Fair will open its virtual doors from 24 September – 6 October 2020
Date Published: 03 August 2020
Goldsmiths' Hall accepting priority packets submitted online from Monday 3 August
We are pleased to announce that from Monday 3 August, we will be accepting requests for One Hour and Early Hall (next day) services when packets are submitted online for hallmarking at Goldsmiths' Hall.
Date Published: 28 July 2020
Closure of Goldsmiths' Hall - Thursday and Friday
The Assay Office at Goldsmiths’ Hall is temporarily closed today (Thursday 23 July), and will be closed tomorrow (Friday 24 July) due to staffing issues.
Greville Street office remains open for Early Hall / Next Day service only.
Apologies for the inconvenience, and thank you for your patience.
Date Published: 23 July 2020
Greville Street - service adaptations
This week, the demand for hallmarking services at our Greville Street office has been much greater than we could meet with a significantly reduced team in place.
While we continue to scale up we may need to alter and withdraw some services.
Date Published: 26 June 2020
Greville Street accepting packets from Monday 22 June
We are pleased to announce that from Monday 22 June, we will be accepting the submission of packets for hallmarking at our Greville Street office.
However, we are adjusting our services to offer a priority service option and match the output of a significantly reduced team.
Date Published: 18 June 2020
Richard Fox becomes new Prime Warden
The Goldsmiths’ Company is delighted to announce that Richard Fox, Managing Director of Fox Silver, has taken office as Prime Warden, in succession to Dr Timothy Schroder. With a background in silversmithing, design and business leadership, Richard has successfully created beautiful silverware for the likes of Formula One and Rolls Royce for almost four decades. His primary focus will be championing the trade of silversmiths, jewellers and allied industries during his year in office.
Date Published: 21 May 2020
Spring Bank Holiday 2020
A reminder that we are closed on bank holidays so will not be open on Monday 25 May for spring bank holiday. But we will resume our reduced counter opening hours at Goldsmiths' Hall of 10am - 1pm from Tuesday 26th May.
We wish you a happy and sunny Bank Holiday weekend!
Date Published: 21 May 2020
Partial Reopening of Goldsmiths' Hall and Heathrow
We are pleased to announce that from today, Monday 18 May, we will be accepting the submission of packets (both at the counter and via the post) for Hallmarking at the Hall, and Heathrow, as part of the partial reopening of both sites.
Date Published: 18 May 2020
Message from Deputy Warden of The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office 07.05.20
We know that lack of access to hallmarking has been a significant concern for many of our valued customers. After careful assessment of the advice from Government, including the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), I am pleased to let you that we will be partially reopening the Assay Office at Goldsmiths’ Hall from Wednesday 13 May for packet collection only.
Date Published: 07 May 2020
Are you promoting the benefits of Hallmarking to your customers?
Are you promoting the benefits of Hallmarking to your customers?
Answer this quick survey and share your thoughts with the British Hallmarking Council (BHC).
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/hallmarking
Date Published: 04 May 2020
Assay Office Remaining Closed
We are working on reopening as soon as it is safe to do so. We feel that the current situation in London doesn’t permit us to operate safely for our customers & staff so we will remain closed until at least 8 May 2020.
We are reviewing our situation regularly with a view to re-opening the Assay Office at the earliest safe opportunity and with the provision of PPE for staff.
We will update this notice again by 7 May 2020.
Date Published: 29 April 2020
The Goldsmiths' COVID-19 Fund
Providing a safety net and protection to jewellers, silversmiths and those working in the allied industries in the UK during the COVID-19 crisis is our top priority. Individual jewellers and silversmiths can now apply for grants and loans to get through the crisis.
Date Published: 21 April 2020
A Message from The Deputy Warden of The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office 07.04.20
HM The Queen's speech struck a chord with me – I am proud of how our teams at the Assay Office met the mounting challenges of taking in work to be assayed and hallmarked, and I am satisfied that our decision to stay closed is the best course of action, and one of integrity. As a London company with five sites across the Capital, I want to make sure our teams avoid public transport, can stay safe and stay at home. This is as much for their safety as it is for yours, our valued customers.
Date Published: 07 April 2020
Hallmarking arrangements during temporary closure of Assay Offices
Press Release from the British Hallmarking Council:
The pandemic has caused many disruptions to business across the U.K. The UK Assay Offices have of course been similarly affected and from the end of today all four Offices will be closed for at least three weeks.
Any business that requires product hallmarking or needs advice should contact the Assay Office they usually use and guidance will be provided.
The British Hallmarking Council is maintaining an overview of the situation and further information will be issued when Government restrictions are lifted.
Please email the Goldsmiths' Company Assay Office on unhallmarked@assayofficelondon.co.uk
Date Published: 25 March 2020
In the Workshop - Kheni Priest
Kheni is a hand marker for the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office in Hatton Garden on Greville Street - Goldsmiths' Company Director of Communications Sarah Jurado went to speak to her about what it’s like being a woman in the workshop.
Date Published: 23 March 2020
Corona Virus Contingencies
We ask that customers do not send work into Assay if the items have come into contact with anyone who has, or is showing symptoms of, Covid-19. Government guidelines state that the virus can live up to around 72 hours when it is felt the risk from any contaminated surface would significantly decrease. Therefore please wait for this period to lapse before sending items that could potentially be contaminated.
Staff members are at high risk with numerous packets transferred to us every day. As a precautionary measure for our staff, we will no longer accept cash from Monday (16th March.)
Date Published: 13 March 2020
Philip and James Kydd, Create the World's Most Expensive Piggy Bank
Multi award-winning father and son duo Philip and James Kydd of Philip Kydd Ltd, both Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company, are set to make the world’s most expensive piggy bank – an 18-carat gold handmade design costing £100,000, as part of a range of piggy banks called ‘Minty’.
Date Published: 11 March 2020
Price Adjustment 2020
The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office is committed to providing a premium quality hallmark and a premium quality service to match.
Prices for standard hallmarking have not increased since 2018 for customers using the online hallnote. Two years on we need to make some increases.
Date Published: 09 March 2020
Women and the Goldsmiths’ Company
For International Women’s Day, the Goldsmiths’ Company has published a story about the history of women at the Company, featuring pioneering women throughout the centuries and reflecting on the role women have played in shaping the Company today.
Date Published: 08 March 2020
Current Online Payment Issue
Worldpay, the system which processes online payments for packets is currently down.
As we can only release packets once payment has been made please note the following procedure. This will be in place until Worldpay is back up and running:
- If you have sent a packet to us by post, our Accounts team will phone you to take payment
- If a courier is collecting your packet, please call us to make a payment on 0207 606 8971
- If you collect your packet at the counter you can pay for your packet in person
We are sorry for any inconvenience caused whilst we work to resolve this issue. We will update you via email with the latest information.
Date Published: 05 March 2020
Dr Robert Organ Exhibits Photographs
The Assay Office's very own Deputy Warden, Dr Robert Organ, has an exhibition of his documentary photography at Torfaen Museum, Pontypool, Wales.
"Surreal" runs until 17 May 2020. The pictures highlight a love of documentary photography focusing on recording of human situations and the environment in which they live and shape.
Date Published: 04 March 2020
Hallmarking of Garrard's Saudi Cup
Last month we hallmarked the Saudi Cup by Garrard - it was awarded at ‘The World’s Most Valuable Horse Race’ at the King Abdulaziz Racetrack in Riyadh on February 29th. Watch video.
Date Published: 03 March 2020
The Goldsmiths' Company Strategy - Protecting Consumers
The Goldsmiths’ Company is a membership organisation that has contributed to national life for nearly 700 years. In this time, the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office has been responsible for protecting consumers by testing and hallmarking precious metals.
Our commitment to protecting consumers has been set out in the new Company Strategy, which outlines our vision for the years leading up to 2027 – the 700th anniversary of the granting of the Company’s first Royal Charter.
Download the strategy here and learn more about how the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office will contribute towards its success.
Date Published: 27 February 2020
Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Awards 2020
Congratulations to Tom Rucker who won The Jacques Cartier Memorial Award at the Goldsmiths' Craft And Design Council Awards last night at the ceremony at Goldsmiths' Hall.
Date Published: 25 February 2020
Congratulations Alex and Primula!
Congratulations to two of the Assay Office team - Alex Palmer and Primula Thomas who received their long service awards today.
Date Published: 05 February 2020
Trial of the Pyx 2020 – protecting consumers for over 700 years
Over 23,000 Royal Mint coins went on 'trial' in London on Tuesday 28 January in one of Britain's oldest judicial processes – the Trial of the Pyx – which takes place at Goldsmiths’ Hall. The Goldsmiths' Company have been responsible for the proceedings since 1580.
Date Published: 28 January 2020
Annual UK Hallmarking Figures for 2019
The total number of articles sent for hallmarking at all UK offices in 2019 fell by 4.2% to 8,736,610.
Gold, silver and palladium saw a decline in the quantity of articles hallmarked, but platinum saw an increase.
Date Published: 24 January 2020