Which of the following best describes a certification mark?

A certification mark is specifically designed to indicate that goods or services meet a set standard established by the owner of the mark. This can involve various aspects such as quality, material, mode of manufacture, or other characteristics. The key here is that the owner does not use the certification mark themselves but instead allows other parties to use it once they meet the established standards. Thus, the best description of a certification mark is indeed one that certifies the quality or characteristics of goods or services, affirming compliance with the standards set forth by the mark's owner.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts. For example, a mark exclusively used by the owner would pertain more to traditional trademarks rather than certification marks, which are used by others under a regulatory framework of standards. A type of trademark for a business name also doesn't capture the essence of a certification mark, as it focuses on the identification of a specific source of goods or services rather than the quality or characteristics certified by an independent entity. Finally, a mark that enhances marketability of services is more aligned with promotional aspects, which is not the primary function of a certification mark.