Antiques include numerous things, such as heirlooms, vintage watches, jewellery, works of art, and other items that are quite valuable and expensive. Since these are things that are special in some way or another, the chances of unforeseen circumstances such as theft or burglary are quite high. Obtaining antique valuations here is crucial, as it ensures you are aware of the true value of your assets. However, you may wonder what comes next. Yes, the article below answers all the questions that you may have regarding the valuations.

So, let’s first understand what is the use of valuations. Why is it important, and what are the benefits of getting the valuations done?

Why Are Antique Valuations Important?

1. Insurance Protection

Getting your assets insured is one of the most important benefits that you can reap by getting the valuations done. When you obtain a specific type of valuation, such as a vintage watch valuation from an agency, you will initially gain a precise understanding of the overall value of your watch. Apart from this, you can get insurance done, which will help you in case of theft or damage to your assets.

2. Market and Investment Insights

The value of anything antique or vintage appreciates with time. For instance, you may have bought an antique gold necklace years ago and think its value has increased with gold prices. But this is not how it works. The value of the antiques appreciates differently depending on various factors, and therefore, to know the exact value, you need to get the jewellery valuation done.

3. Authentication and Provenance

Who owns a certain antique or who were the previous owners of a certain item plays an important role in deciding the value of the asset. Getting the valuation done will help you know who the previous owners of the antique were, and this therefore shows the desirability of the item in the market, thereby increasing its overall worth. Getting the valuation done will provide you with a legal document mentioning the previous possessors as well as the current value of the item.

4. Selling or Auctioning Antiques

Are you considering selling your antiques or putting them up for auction? Getting a valuation done can assist you in determining a fair price for your assets. These documents will also assure the purchaser that the price they are paying is fair.

How to Read Jewellery and Watch Valuation Certificates in the UK

The valuation certificate is a legal document that, in extensive detail, mentions the appearance of the item, the metals used, its age, and various other necessary information that may impact its price. But reading and understanding the documents is not a cakewalk. Here in the next few steps, we will guide you on how to interpret the key elements found in a UK valuation certificate:

1. Certificate Details and Valuer Credentials

• Look for accreditation from recognised bodies such as the Prestige Valuations.
• The certificate should mention the demographic details, such as the name and the address of the valuing agency.
• Finally, the date is most important because it shows the item’s price at the valuation.

2. A description of the item

The document must provide a detailed description of the asset. This will enable easy and quick verification of the item.

• Jewellery: In the case of jewellery, the types of metal used in making the jewellery, such as gold, platinum, or silver, along with the purity of the metal (e.g., 18ct gold), should be mentioned. In addition, it’s important to specify accurately the design, weight, and other details. Also, pay attention if the jewellery is hallmarked or not, and the same is to be mentioned in the certificate as well.
• Watches: In the case of watches, such as getting the Rolex valuation done, pay attention to the model, serial number, year of manufacturing, etc. All these things are extremely important when getting the item matched later.

3. Gemstone and Diamond Analysis

If you are getting the gemstone jewellery valuation done, ensure that these things are mentioned precisely on the document.

• Carat Weight: This refers to the size of the diamond or any gemstone that the jewellery has. The carat weight is the size of the gemstone only and should not be confused with anything else.
• Cut: The gemstones are available in various shapes, such as oval, round, or princess cut. The document should mention the shape of the gemstone.
• Clarity: A gemstone may or may not have internal or surface flaws. It is crucial to note any flaws in the document and grade them from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3).