What should be on a jewellery valuation certificate?

The header — who and when

• Business name, address, contact — yours, as the valuer
• Valuer’s name and credentials — who actually assessed it
• Certificate / reference number
• Date of valuation — a valuation is a snapshot; prices move
• Customer name

The item description — enough to replace it exactly

• Item type — e.g. solitaire engagement ring, tennis bracelet
• Metal and fineness — e.g. 18ct white gold, 950 platinum
• Total weight in grams
• Hallmarks and maker’s marks, recorded as present
• Overall condition — new, excellent, worn
• Measurements — ring size, chain length, dimensions

The stones — the part that moves the value most

For every significant stone:

• Stone type — diamond, sapphire, emerald
• Cut / shape — round brilliant, oval, emerald cut
• Estimated carat weight (state “estimated” if not removed and weighed)
• Colour and clarity grade — and whether these are visual estimates or from a report
• Setting — claw, bezel, pavé
• Lab report reference — GIA / IGI / HRD number if one exists

The valuation — clearly labelled

• Replacement value in local currency, explicitly stated as “for insurance / retail replacement”
• The basis of valuation in a sentence
• Any assumptions or limitations (e.g. “stones assessed in setting”)

The essentials that make it defensible

• Photograph(s) of the item alongside the description
• Valuer’s signature
• A note on recommended re-valuation (typically every 2–3 years)