A cat’s paw hallmark indicates that a gold item has been hallmarked. Here, you’ll learn how to read the hallmark and what it tells you about your gold.

What is a cat paw print?

A cat’s paw hallmark is a Swedish hallmark for precious metals. It is often found on older gold jewelry and indicates that the item has been inspected in accordance with Swedish regulations.

The name comes from the symbol’s shape, which resembles a small cat’s paw print. The design consists of three crowns in a rounded shape and can be found on rings, necklaces, bracelets, pendants, and other gold items.

What does a cat’s paw hallmark on gold mean?

A gold hallmark indicates that the item has been certified as a precious metal. However, it does not indicate the gold’s karat content.

To determine the gold content, you need to look for other markings, such as 18k, 14k, or 750. A piece of jewelry marked 18k or 750 contains 75 percent pure gold.

At Smyckesguld, you’ll find genuine gold jewelry that has been inspected by experts. Check out our selection here!

How to read the label

The hallmark is often located near other hallmarks. On rings, it is usually found on the inside, while on necklaces and bracelets it is often located near the clasp.

Common markings on gold:

  • Cat’s paw hallmark – Swedish hallmark for precious metals
  • 18k – 18-karat gold
  • 750 – same fineness as 18k
  • 14k – lower gold content than 18k
  • Nameplate – often indicates the manufacturer or importer

If the stamp is worn, it may be hard to see. In that case, a magnifying glass or other simple tool can help. If you’re not entirely sure about the markings, you can always go to a

Can gold be without a hallmark?

Yes, a piece of jewelry can be genuine gold even without a hallmark. This is especially true for jewelry from other countries, older items, or jewelry where the markings have worn off.

That is why it is important not to rely solely on a symbol. If you are unsure, the gold may need to be tested to determine its purity.

Does a cat’s paw print have any value?

The cat’s paw hallmark itself has no intrinsic value. The price is primarily determined by the weight of the gold, its karat content, and the current price of gold.

However, the hallmark can make it easier to identify the item as having been hallmarked. This is particularly useful when you want to sell inherited jewelry, old rings, or broken gold items.

Selling gold with a cat’s paw hallmark

If you have a piece of jewelry with a cat’s paw hallmark, it may have significant value, especially if it is also marked 18k, 14k, or 750.

At Smyckesguld.se, you can sell gold safely and easily, even if you’re unsure about the hallmark. This applies to complete pieces of jewelry, broken chains, and other gold items you no longer use.