Hallmark
An official mark communicating the fineness of the precious metal article.
Clarity Through Documentation
Certification
Understand the different documents that may accompany fine jewellery and the questions each one is designed to answer.Know What The Document Covers
Metal, gemstones and the finished piece are not documented in the same way.
A metal hallmark communicates precious-metal fineness. A laboratory report may describe the characteristics of a particular gemstone. A product invoice records the commercial details of your purchase.
Read the scope, issuer and identifying information on each document rather than treating every paper as interchangeable certification.
Match The Details
Documentation should connect clearly to the item.
Where a report or identification number is provided, review the measurements, description and number against the accompanying jewellery information. Ask how it can be independently verified.
Explore The Details
Three useful records
Gemstone Report
A laboratory document describing assessed characteristics of the submitted stone.
Purchase Record
An invoice or product document describing the item, price and seller.
Good documentation makes clear what was assessed, by whom and how it relates to your piece.
A Considered Approach
Questions worth asking
Who issued it?
Identify the hallmarking authority, laboratory or seller responsible for the document.
What was assessed?
Confirm whether the record covers metal purity, a loose stone or the finished article.
Can it be verified?
Look for a report, hallmark or identification number and an official verification route.
Carat Street