Regarding hallmarks on all detachable parts being taken to the assay office, duty paid and assembled later, I could not find any reference with detailed description of the legislation. The issue has already been discussed here, but the fact was vaguely mentioned.
1. When was it legislated? (The period when enforced).
2. Marks cannot be struck on enamel, meaning silver was assayed with cloisonné cells and enameled later. But enameling is not an easy process and if one wanted to match high standard every time, many pieces must have been ruined even with cloisonné and let alone with technically more demanding plique-à-jour. Was the tax reimbursed or new piece was tax exempted and ruined silver destroyed?
2. Although not properly marked silver is avoided,
how often did you see obviously genuine items without being properly marked according to this legislation? Or it`s acceptable on silver made before the legislation, but as I said, the period is unknown to me.
(Having in mind duty dodgers in Britain and inconsistent marking throughout Europe at the time, it`s hard to believe Russia was the only country with close to perfect law enforcement).
I am aware many details will remain unclear. E.g. French ``owl`` import mark for gold was used for import from a non-treaty countries since 1893, but I never had the answer or the list of ``non-treaty countries``
(Just in case you are interested, it`s here)
http://www.925-1000.com/forum/viewtopic ... 21&t=44111
Thank you for your time and for sharing your knowledge and experience.
Kindest regards
