Transparency doesn’t stop at the product page. Here is the documentation that accompanies Veros pieces, how to verify it and how to keep it safe.
Documentation We Provide
The documentation included with each piece is listed on its product page. Depending on the piece, it may include an IGI certificate, a Certificate of Appraisal, or both.
IGI certificates
Qualifying diamonds, typically larger stones set individually, come with a grading report from the International Gemological Institute (IGI), an independent gemological laboratory. Each certificate covers a single diamond and records:
- Whether the diamond is natural or laboratory-grown
- Shape, measurements and carat weight
- Colour and clarity grades, plus cut grade where applicable
- Polish, symmetry and fluorescence
- A unique report number
Where a pair of earrings is certified, each diamond has its own certificate. Many IGI-graded diamonds are also laser-inscribed with their report number on the girdle, the thin outer edge of the stone, which can be read under magnification.
Certificate of Appraisal
A Certificate of Appraisal describes the finished piece as a whole, including its metal, diamonds, total carat weight and quality, and states an appraised value. It is a useful record for insurance, but it is not a laboratory grading report. Pieces set with many small diamonds, such as tennis bracelets, are typically documented with an appraisal, since grading each small stone individually is not practical.
Verifying an IGI Report
- Find the report number on your certificate.
- Visit IGI’s website at igi.org and choose the option to verify a report.
- Enter the report number and compare the online record with your printed certificate.
The details online should match your certificate. If anything doesn’t match, or you have questions about what you see, contact us.
Hallmarks and Karat Stamps
Most solid gold and sterling silver pieces carry a quality stamp showing the purity of the metal:
- 10K or 417: 10 karat gold
- 14K or 585: 14 karat gold
- 18K or 750: 18 karat gold
- 925 or Sterling: sterling silver
Look inside a ring band, on a clasp or tag, or on an earring post. Very small or delicate pieces are not always stamped, so your product description and documentation remain the full record. Plated pieces are always identified as plated on their product page. For more on purity, see Understanding Karats & Finishes.
Keeping Your Documents Safe
- Store original certificates somewhere dry and secure, separately from the jewellery itself.
- Keep digital copies by scanning or photographing each certificate and your order confirmation.
- Note your IGI report numbers somewhere easy to find.
- Keep all documentation with the piece if you return it, pass it on or have it appraised.
Insurance and Appraisals
Fine jewellery is worth insuring. Many home and contents policies limit coverage for jewellery, so ask your insurer whether a piece should be listed separately and what documentation they require. Your Certificate of Appraisal, IGI certificates and proof of purchase are a good starting point.
Jewellery values change over time, so it is sensible to review your coverage periodically and update appraisals when needed. Clear photographs of each piece are a helpful addition to your records.