Gilded writing instruments need not bear a hallmark, since this is intended exclusively for solid precious metals and guarantees a certain precious-metal content. With fashion brands like Pierre Cardin, the pens are not produced by the brand owner himself but on commission of established writing-instrument manufacturers. The term Gold Plated designates a gilding, that is, a thin gold layer on a base carrier material, which is why no material guarantee through a hallmark is needed.