Tryckmärket

Tryckmärket, also known as a watermark, is a visible or invisible mark embedded in paper or other materials to indicate ownership or authenticity. The term "tryckmärket" is derived from Swedish, where "tryck" means "print" and "märket" means "mark." Watermarks are typically used in documents, banknotes, and other valuable items to deter counterfeiting.

There are two main types of watermarks: visible and invisible. Visible watermarks are designed to be seen with the naked eye, often appearing as a faint pattern or image. These are commonly used in documents and artworks. Invisible watermarks, on the other hand, are not visible to the naked eye but can be detected using specialized equipment. These are often used in banknotes and security documents.

Watermarks work by exploiting the properties of paper or other materials. When paper is made, water is used to form a pulp, which is then pressed into a mold. The water leaves tiny, invisible patterns in the paper, which can be seen when light is shone through the material. These patterns can be enhanced with inks or dyes to create visible watermarks.

The use of watermarks dates back to ancient times, with examples found in ancient China and Greece. However, their widespread use began in the 13th century in Europe, particularly in the production of banknotes. Today, watermarks are used in a variety of applications, from preventing counterfeiting to enhancing the aesthetic value of documents and artworks.