How do I identify the date of a gold wedding ring?

Assay office hallmarks stamped inside the band provide the specific year of testing and manufacture. Date letters correspond to official registry cycles used across British assay offices. Additional clues include the prevailing style, such as Victorian engraving or mid-century minimalism, which corroborate the hallmarked decade.

What is the difference between 9ct and 22ct gold bands?

Purity defines the distinction, with 22ct containing a much higher proportion of pure gold compared to 9ct alloys. This high gold content gives 22ct rings a rich, deep yellow hue and a softer, heavier feel. In contrast, 9ct gold incorporates more base metals, offering greater resistance to scratching and everyday wear at the expense of colour richness.

Can antique wedding rings be resized easily?

Most plain gold bands permit straightforward sizing by a skilled jeweller who can add or remove a small section of metal. Solid 22ct and 9ct plain rings adapt well to these adjustments without compromising structure. However, patterned bands, engraved designs, and full eternity rings with stones set all the way around present significant challenges and risk damaging the craftsmanship.