What is a valuation?

A jewellery valuation (also known as a valuation certificate) is a document that provides a detailed description and a value judgement of a jewellery item. The value is a judgement based on current market conditions. The different markets the valuation is prepared in reference to (retail replacement, deceased estate, auction reserve and more) can vary significantly and this is taken into account when the valuation is produced.

Why might you need a jewellery valuation?

There are a number of reasons why you may require or want a valuation certificate. The most common reason valuations are sought is for insurance purposes. The vast majority of jewellery valuations produced are for the purpose of insurance. Valuations  for auctions reserves, non-forced sale, forced sale, second-hand sale, private sale, divorce property settlement, deceased estate, and quality assessment are some of the other types of valuations that can produced.

Where can I get a valuation?

When you buy a new piece of jewellery, a valuation certificate from the retailer is acceptable as long as there is a full and detailed description of the item on the certificate and, most importantly, the valuation figure that appears on the certificate is the same as the price actually paid.  The only exception to this is when a retailer who has one or two genuine clearance sales per year sells a product at a genuine discounted price and where that retailer believes that it would not be able to replace the item for the price actually paid.

For pre-owned jewellery we recommend consumers use a registered valuer to value their jewellery or check that the person valuing your jewellery has the appropriate qualifications for assessing jewellery.
There is no legal obligation for a jeweller to give you a valuation certificate when you buy an item. However many jewellers will often offer to provide a valuation certificate, particularly for items above $1,000. They may charge a fee for producing the valuation certificate.

It is important to know that jewellery valuations do need updating. It is therefore recommended that items of jewellery be valued approximately every 2 years. 

Finding a jewellery valuer

In Australia, an individual does not have to be a member of a professional body to provide jewellery valuations. It is up to you to find a suitably qualified valuer in line with your jewellery valuing needs.

To search for JAA members who provide jewellery valuation services, please click here.

The National Council of Jewellery Valuers (NCJV) is an independent body that was established in 1984 to promote and maintain high professional standard for jewellery and fine arts valuation in Australia. Valuers registered with the NCJV are required to undergo training and ongoing professional development in gemmology, diamond grading and valuing to be a member.

You can read more about NCJV valuers and search for one near you at ncjv.com.au.

What is a diamond certificate?

A diamond certificate is a document produced by a diamond laboratory that provides in-depth detail about a diamond such as clarity, colour, cut, carat, florescence, polish grade, symmetry and more. Diamond certificates do not ascribe a value to a stone as they are for authentication, identification and/or educational purposes. You can also have your diamond laser inscribed to link it back to the certificate or to write a personalised message.

Are diamond certificates and valuations certificates the same thing?

No. Valuations are documents that provide comprehensive details of a jewellery piece and ascribe it a value based on certain market conditions.