A “hallmark”is an official punch, which after an appropriate assay, is impressed or laser engraved on gold, silver, platinum or palladium items, confirming the fineness, karat or purity of the precious metal. Swiss Customs publishes extensive explanatory materials in English, French, German and Italian. This page links to pertinent English pages of the Swiss Customs' website. A broad scope of supplemental materials are supplied by the links.
Geneva is the oldest of the Swiss assay office and has used the distinctive "G" hallmark since 1881. An assay office existed in Geneva as early as Geneva in 1424 following the French standards of the time. The early hallmarks for Geneva are illustrated above.
