Jewellery Valuations & Estimates
Professional assessments for insurance, probate, replacement, diamonds, Zakat and other purposes.
How It Works
1. Tell us the purpose | 2. Bring the jewellery and documents | 3. Inspection and photography | 4. Research and assessment |
5. Report / estimate prepared | 6. Collection and explanation |
The purpose of a valuation matters An insurance replacement valuation, probate figure, sale estimate and Zakat assessment are not automatically the same number. We first establish what the valuation is for, then assess the jewellery on the appropriate basis. |
Valuations Are More Than a Weight Check
A proper jewellery valuation can involve identifying the metal, assessing condition, measuring and describing stones, checking hallmarks, taking photographs, researching comparable replacement or market information and preparing a written document.
That work takes time, which is why our formal valuations are chargeable. The charge depends on the type and amount of jewellery and the work required.
Insurance Valuations
An insurance valuation is normally intended to help establish an appropriate replacement figure for jewellery if it were lost, stolen or damaged. The valuation should describe the item clearly enough for an insurer or replacement jeweller to understand what is being valued.
Insurance values can differ from what a dealer would pay to buy the item for cash. A replacement valuation should not be confused with a resale offer.
Probate Valuations
Probate valuations are prepared for estate-administration purposes and can require a different valuation basis from insurance replacement. Tell us the intended use when booking so the report is prepared on the correct basis.
We provide jewellery valuation information, not legal or tax advice. Executors or representatives should confirm with their solicitor, accountant or HMRC adviser what evidence is required for the estate.
Replacement Valuations and Estimates
A replacement valuation can be useful for identifying the likely cost of replacing a similar piece. We can also provide estimates where a full formal valuation certificate is not necessary.
An estimate is not automatically equivalent to a formal insurance or probate valuation, so tell us what the document will be used for before we begin.
Diamond Valuations
Diamond jewellery can require assessment of the stone as well as the setting and metal. Where a grading report is available, bring it with you. We can compare report details with the jewellery and use them as part of the assessment.
Natural and lab-grown diamonds can have different market characteristics even where their grading characteristics appear similar. A valuation should identify the relevant stone type where known.
Zakat Valuations
We offer Zakat valuations for customers who need a current value for qualifying gold or silver holdings. A basic Zakat valuation is free. If you require a Gold Factory certificate, the current charge is £5.
Our Zakat calculator can also help customers organise information about gold, silver, cash, bank balances and other relevant assets. Whether Zakat is due, the nisab method to use and how particular assets should be treated can depend on religious interpretation and personal circumstances, so the calculator and valuation are informational rather than religious advice.
What to Bring
- The jewellery itself
- Any purchase receipts you still have
- Diamond or gemstone certificates
- Previous valuations, if relevant
- Insurance schedule or insurer requirements, if they have given you any
- Probate or estate instructions if a specific format is required
Missing paperwork does not necessarily prevent a valuation, but existing documents can provide useful provenance and comparison information.
Keeping Valuations Current
Precious-metal, diamond and replacement costs can change. A valuation prepared several years ago may no longer reflect current replacement prices or market conditions.
If an insurer asks for updated valuations at particular intervals, follow the insurer’s requirements. We can reassess jewellery when an updated report is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you charge for jewellery valuations?
Yes. Formal valuations are chargeable because inspection, photography, research and report preparation can be time-consuming.
Is a Zakat valuation free?
A basic Zakat valuation is free. If you require a certificate, the current Gold Factory charge is £5.
Can you value diamonds?
Yes, subject to assessment. Bring any laboratory report or certificate you have.
Is an insurance valuation the same as what you would pay to buy my jewellery?
No. Insurance replacement values and dealer buying offers are prepared for different purposes and can be very different.
Do you give legal or tax advice for probate?
No. We provide the jewellery valuation. Legal and tax requirements should be confirmed with the appropriate professional adviser.
Talk to Gold Factory Visit us at 294 Farnham Road, Slough, SL1 4XL, call 01753 536800, email info@goldfactory.co.uk, use live chat or contact us through WhatsApp on www.goldfactory.co.uk. Appointments are welcome for detailed enquiries, although customers can generally visit without one. |
Visit Gold Factory
Monday to Saturday: 11:00 am to 6:30 pm. Sunday closed.