You can look for marks, but frequently the jewelry only bears the mark of the company they worked for.
List of Antique Gold Ring Markings Pictures. Paying taxes has never been on the priority list of entrepreneurs and some gold and silversmiths in germany and the netherlands started stamping marks on their jewelry and silver work that mimicked antique hallmarks. Markings such as 14k, 18k and 9k are common, although you can also find 22k and early marks such as 19.5.
Stamp On Vintage Engagement Ring from www.everything-wedding-rings.com
This list is sorted alphabetically and by country. Hallmarks are tiny markings placed on jewelry by the maker. You won't see much 12k jewelry since it tends to be fairly dull in color.
Have a look at your piece of jewellery.
All jewelry sold in the us must be at least 10 karats in order to be marketed as gold. That's what gold and metals do. They wear down, erode, rub out, get thin, and the stamp will eventually erase and disappear inside the band. Look for a number followed by k, for example 12k, using a loupe or magnifying glass.