Foreign silver hallmarks vary significantly between countries, each with unique symbols, purity standards, and marking systems that reflect national traditions.
European countries like France, Germany, Italy, and others maintain distinct hallmarking systems with national symbols and purity standards that may differ from British or American systems.
Countries like China, Japan, and India have their own silver marking traditions, often incorporating cultural symbols and different purity standards.
When encountering unfamiliar marks, research the symbols, numbers, and country of origin. Reference books and databases help identify international markings.