Illegible Hallmark?

If you can’t read the hallmark on your vintage bag, or if it’s looking unclear or messy, it means one thing only… the hardwares were re-plated. And it’s because the process of re-plating involves adding a new layer of gold on top of the existing gold by applying an electrical current to cause the new gold to adhere to the surface of the item. This new layer can cover up or partially the engraving, making it difficult to read or see.

Additionally, sometimes the re-plating process can damage the engraving completely if the re-plating is not done carefully or without attention to detail. Master Artisans often re-engrave the hallmark if it was damaged during the process.