Disclaimer: To avoid damage and misidentification is always best to have a certified gemologist verify authenticity of gems and jewelry
How you can verify the authenticity of jewelry
If you are purchasing a piece that is of lower value, there are some things you can do on your own to verify that you are getting what you paid for. However, if you are buying or selling something of high value, it is strongly recommended that you get a professional gemologist to verify authenticity. The following list includes some of the tests we do at SAZ Appraisal to ensure exchanges are equitable.
● Initiate with material check whether it’s a metal or an ordinary substance.
● Check the hallmark present on the item and compare it with the given hallmarks on the internet.
● Test it by magnetization. Genuine jewelry such as gold or Diamond will not be magnetized.
● Check the flexibility of the material. For example, platinum is complex and does not change color, but silver does, so beware!
● Apply chalk to verify. If it's platinum or gold, it won't change its color. Otherwise, you will notice a darker region where the chalk was rubbed
● Use iodine as an identifier. If you notice a stain on your gold, then you have your culprit.
● Examine with the help of a vinegar bath. You can catch fake gold upon changes in color.
● Apply some sulfuric ointment. Sulfuric ointment tends to make silver turn blue for some time.
● Let ammonia reveal if it's a metal or platinum. The surface will turn dark if it's not platinum.
● Breathe some air on the item. Breathing air would not fog an authentic Diamond.
● Check for patterns. A spiral or tubular structure indicates a faked Emerald.
● Make your pearl creak like sand. A genuine pearl would creak like sand.
● Observe the craftsmanship closely.
The Importance of Jewelry Appraisal
There are a number of rationales why you should get your jewelry appraised before selling or buying it.
● It studies the jewelry in detail, providing you with a document of authentication.
● It helps determine the actual and present value of the jewelry.
● It verifies it, making it eligible for insurance.
● It gives your ornament a new value.
● It saves you from an extraordinary future loss.
● Precious stones and metals such as Gold and Diamond keep changing in value.
Having your jewelry appraised before buying or selling is quite essential. Since jewelry is a precious item, it is also considered an investment. A professional appraisal will certainly give you a better return on your investment. Whether you are selling your immensely precious vintage jewelry or buying an expensive second-hand item, you should always consider getting a professional appraisal.
We hope these tips give you some insight into our extensive appraisal process. Likewise, if you are buying something less expensive, you can use some of the tips mentioned earlier.
If you ever have any questions, we would be honored to be resource for you.