The Links of London Sweetie bracelet has become one of the most collected modern silver bracelets of the last two decades. Its popularity, weight, and silver value have also made it one of the most frequently copied. This short guide explains how to identify a genuine example, using clear, practical checks that buyers and sellers can rely on.
1. British Hallmarking (The First and Most Important Check)
A genuine Links of London Sweetie bracelet will always carry full British hallmarking, which is the most reliable indicator of authenticity. The hallmark is typically stamped on the side of the first plain link next to the larger branded link; however, if the original elastic has been replaced over time, the order of the links may have shifted, meaning the hallmarked link is not always in the original position. A correct example will show a full UK assay hallmark confirming sterling silver fineness and independent UK testing, rather than a simple “925” stamp, which on its own is not sufficient and is commonly seen on non-genuine bracelets.
2. Link Size, Construction, and Finish
Authentic Links of London Sweetie bracelets are manufactured to a very consistent standard, which is most clearly seen in the size and finish of each individual link. The links typically measure around 8mm in diameter, as shown here at approximately 7.79mm, and are solid, securely soldered, and evenly formed. A genuine bracelet will have a smooth, high-quality polish with no visible seams, splits, or pressed joints. Variations in link size, poor soldering, or visible join lines are strong indicators that a bracelet is not genuine.
3. Silver Colour and Tone
Genuine sterling silver has a distinctive tone that becomes particularly clear when viewed side by side. In this comparison, the authentic Sweetie bracelet shows a soft, slightly warm silver colour with subtle depth, whereas non-silver or plated examples often appear flatter, greyer, or unnaturally bright. This difference in tone is not a matter of wear or age but of metal content, and once recognised, it becomes one of the easiest visual indicators when assessing authenticity.
4. Weight: One of the Clearest Indicators
Weight is one of the most reliable indicators when assessing a Sweetie bracelet. A standard genuine example typically weighs around 55–58 grams depending on the number of links, reflecting the solid construction of each individual link. On authentic bracelets, each link averages approximately 0.58 grams, whereas copies are often closer to 0.48 grams per link. When multiplied across the roughly 80 solid links found in a full bracelet, this small difference quickly results in a noticeably lighter overall weight. For this reason, a significant weight discrepancy is rarely coincidental and should always be treated with caution.
5. Scratch Stone Test (Material Confirmation)
When carried out correctly, a scratch test can provide clear confirmation of a bracelet’s metal content. Genuine sterling silver leaves a clean, consistent silver-coloured mark on the test stone, while non-silver or plated items often reveal copper-toned or brassy colouring beneath the surface. This is best used as a confirmatory test alongside hallmarking, weight, and visual assessment.
Final Thoughts
Authentic Links of London Sweetie bracelets combine hallmarking, weight, construction quality, colour, and material behaviour in a way that copies consistently fail to replicate.
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https://prestigegold.uk/collections/pre-loved-links-of-london