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Question
I HAVE A RING IN SIDE ITS STAMPED 10K RJW I WAS WONDERING WHAT IT MEANT? PLEASE E-MAIL ME WITH A RESPONSE THANK YOU.
Eric, thanks for the question.
Your ring is stamped as is legally required by the National Gold and Silver Stamping Act, put into effect in 1981. From that, I would say the 10k means the ring is made of 10 karat gold and the RJW is the mark of the manufacturer.
What seems strange about the law is that a jewelry maker does not have to stamp the jewelry with the metal quality. In your ring they could have marked it only with the RJW or with no mark at all. Of course, it would be foolish to try and market jewelry which is not marked telling the customer what the metal is and the quality of the metal.
When the metal quality is marked, as in your 10k, the law then REQUIRES the maker to also mark the ring, close to the metal mark if possible and just as large and readable. The makers mark is then like a signature stating that they are responsible for the accuracy of the metal mark. That is how it works and in the USA this system has worked quite well.
So, that is what the stamps mean and a bit of extra info about why. Best wishes and enjoy the ring.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
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Answers by Expert:
Thomas
Expertise
Have a question about jewelry repair or working with precious metal jewelry and gemstones? For many years up to December 31, 2010, I was a working professional bench jeweler, involved everyday with setting stones in mountings, designing and making jewelry, repairing and limited custom manufacture. If you work with jewelry as a hobby or as a profession, I might be able to help. I deal with the retail business, not mass production. Ask privately if you wish. See the box for that: It keeps your question between us. Please DO NOT ask MAKER'S MARKS, but metal quality marks are fine to ask. Please DO NOT ask diamond prices. See a gemologist for that.
Experience
I have extensive experience in design, service and making of jewelry. I deal mostly with precious metals and gemstones but work with many materials as needed and usable to create an artistic design. My experience also includes freelance photography and photographer of jewelry and similar items for a former employer and individuals. Design of custom items requires reading the desires of the client and being clear on what can be done within that framework...then fulfilling the transition of idea to reality. Effective communications is essential in a working designer/producer and customer relationship.
Education/Credentials
Education is English/Physics! Started in human resources, to advertising, to jewelry...wow, what a road. I have had formal training in jewelry work and many shared experiences with top grade jewelers. We just never know were we will go or be. Follow your best, your dreams, with some discretion! Don't let the work tear up your body along the way as it has mine.
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