Whether you need to insure an engagement ring, understand the value of inherited jewellery or find out what a piece could be worth if sold, the type of valuation you need matters.
Here, we answer some of the most common questions about jewellery valuations and explain what to expect from the process.
How much is my jewellery worth?
There isn't one single value for a piece of jewellery.
Its value will depend partly on the jewellery itself, including its gemstones, precious metals, maker, condition, age and provenance, but also on the purpose of the valuation.
An insurance valuation, probate valuation and selling valuation can all produce different figures for the same piece.
This is why the first step should be establishing why you need the jewellery valued.
What is the difference between an insurance valuation and a selling valuation?
This is one of the most important distinctions to understand.
An insurance valuation considers the cost of replacing your jewellery should it be lost, stolen or damaged. It is therefore not an indication of what you could expect to receive if you sold the piece.
A selling valuation considers its value on the current pre-owned jewellery market.
It is quite normal for the selling value of jewellery to be lower than the figure shown on an insurance valuation.
If you're considering selling rather than insuring a piece, read our guide to selling jewellery.
How do I get my jewellery valued?
The best way to obtain an accurate valuation is to have the jewellery physically examined by a qualified jewellery valuer.
At Hatton Jewels, you can begin by sending us photographs and any information you have about the piece. We can then provide a quotation and arrange an appointment at our Hatton Garden premises.
Your jewellery is examined using professional gemmological equipment before a detailed valuation report is prepared.
Find out more about our jewellery valuation service.
How much does a jewellery valuation cost?
The cost depends on the complexity of the jewellery rather than simply its value.
For example, assessing a diamond solitaire ring is likely to require less time than examining a complex necklace containing numerous diamonds or coloured gemstones.
At Hatton Jewels, professional jewellery valuations start from £175 per item. We can provide a more precise quotation once we have seen photographs and details of your jewellery.
How long does a jewellery valuation take?
Our standard valuation service usually takes around 4 to 5 working days for a single item.
Larger collections may require additional time.
We also offer a fast-track insurance valuation service, subject to availability, which can usually be completed within 24 to 48 hours for a single item for an additional charge.
What is included in a jewellery valuation?
A professional valuation should provide much more than a figure.
Our valuation reports include:
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Gemstone identification
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Quality assessments
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A detailed description of the jewellery
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Photographs of the item
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The appropriate valuation for its intended purpose
We also carry out GIA iD100 screening for lab-grown diamonds.
Your jewellery is fully insured while it is in our care.
Can jewellery be valued online from photographs?
Photographs are useful for making an initial assessment and providing a quotation, but they cannot replace the physical examination required for a formal professional valuation.
A valuer may need to confirm gemstone identity, assess diamond quality, test precious metals and examine construction and condition. These details cannot always be established reliably from photographs alone.
For this reason, you should be cautious of formal valuations produced entirely online without the jewellery being physically examined.
Who should value my jewellery?
Qualifications matter.
Jewellery valuation is a specialist field involving gemmology, diamond grading, jewellery construction and an understanding of the relevant markets.
Our Head Valuer, Rachel Smith, is a Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA), GIA Diamond Graduate, Member of the Academy of Experts (MAE) and registered with the Institute of Registered Valuers (MIRV).
Her experience covers everything from modern diamond engagement rings to antique jewellery, coloured gemstones and signed pieces from houses such as Cartier.
Can inherited jewellery be valued?
Yes.
You may want to value inherited jewellery simply to understand what you own, but a formal probate valuation may also be required when administering an estate.
Probate valuations are prepared differently from insurance valuations and must establish the appropriate value for HMRC purposes.
Hatton Jewels provides probate valuations that satisfy the requirements of Section 160 of the Inheritance Tax Act 1984.
Can jewellery be valued for divorce or legal proceedings?
Yes. Jewellery may need to be professionally valued during divorce proceedings, inheritance disputes or other legal matters.
Hatton Jewels provides Division of Assets valuations as well as valuations for solicitors, legal disputes and criminal proceedings.
As members of the Academy of Experts, we can also provide expert opinion and testimony where required.
What types of jewellery can be valued?
Most fine jewellery can be professionally valued, including:
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Diamond and gemstone rings
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Engagement rings
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Necklaces and bracelets
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Earrings
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Antique and vintage jewellery
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Family heirlooms
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Signed and branded jewellery such as Cartier
The expertise required can vary considerably depending on the piece, particularly when dealing with antique jewellery, unusual gemstones or important signed pieces.
Do I need certificates or receipts?
Not necessarily.
Previous valuations, receipts, gemstone certificates and other documentation can all be useful, so bring them with you if you have them.
However, a professional valuer will examine and assess the jewellery itself rather than relying solely on existing paperwork.
Arrange a Jewellery Valuation in Hatton Garden
If you are unsure which type of valuation you need, we can advise you before you book.
Send us photographs and any information you have about your jewellery and our team can provide an initial quotation and arrange an appointment at 5 Hatton Place, London.
Learn more about our professional jewellery valuations or contact our team to discuss your piece.
