AUTHENTICITY
HOW DO WE AUTHENTICATE
The process is complex and requires significant expertise. For us, key elements include:
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Hallmark and Signature Analysis: Verifying that logos, serial numbers, and metal purity marks (hallmarks) are consistent with the brand's typography, placement, and style for the specific manufacturing era.
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Craftsmanship and Construction: Examining the quality of finishing, the precision of settings, the functionality of mechanisms (like clasps and hinges), and the overall structural balance. High-end brands like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels are known for immaculate finishing, even in non-visible areas.
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Material Analysis: Testing the density, weight, and composition of metals to ensure they match the brand's standards for the period. This can also involve identifying gemstones and verifying their quality, cut, and origin (natural vs. synthetic).
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Documentation and Provenance: While original boxes and papers are valuable, they can be forged. Independent gemological reports from institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) provide a crucial layer of third-party verification and significantly enhance an item's value and liquidity.
Every item we purchase is thoroughly inspected by our team members who have an extensive experience of luxury (more than 20 years working for luxury brands, stores as well as holding fashion diplomas). Each item is scrutinized into deeply, from stitches to labels and dust bags.
We also are keeping track of our suppliers and supplies, so every item remains relatively traceable.
CLAIMS OR ENQUIRIES
We will investigate any enquiries or complaints from buyers which question the authenticity of items they have purchased or are listed on the site.
Once we’ve looked into the query, which may involve us physically inspecting the item, we will either:
- Make payment within seven working days, if we have authenticated the item.
- If we are unable to authenticate the item, the buyer will be refunded pending the return of the product to us.