Crystal glass, precious and semi-precious stones are exempt, as any lead present is unlikely to migrate and cause any harm.  However, if the stones are treated with lead or its compounds they will need to comply.  This impacts on watches and beads and The Laboratory has been inundated with enquiries as to what is meant by “Crystal glass”.  Officially “Crystal glass" is defined as glass which contains lead, barium, zinc or potash combined or alone, of at least 10% b…

The Birmingham Assay Office is pleased to announce that the British Hallmarking Council has authorised the opening of a Sub-Office at Hockley Mint, located in Warstone Lane, right in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Gary Wroe Managing Director Hockley Mint[/caption] Gary Wroe, Managing Director of Hockley Mint stated “We will be able to offer an improved service to our customers by decreasing the movement of metal, and making a significant time and quality improvemen…

Tickets are selling fast for 27th June visit - so don't delay, book your place today! Call now to reserve a place – £12.00   Tel 0871 871 6020 or email silver@theassayoffice.co.uk The Birmingham Assay Office is pleased to announce that it is uniquely opening its doors to the General Public and offering limited places on its popular Silver Collection Visits programme – on ONE DAY ONLY. Usually these Visits are only available to organised groups, so this is a unique opport…