Our Authentication Process

Every Piece Authenticated. Every Time.

At Amberdales Vintage, we believe that buying vintage jewellery should be a joy — not a gamble. That's why every single item in our collection undergoes a rigorous authentication and quality verification process before it's listed for sale. Here's exactly what we do.

💎 Gemstone Testing

All gemstones are tested using one of these industry-standard instruments:

  • GemTrue Tester - which tests for Diamonds, Sapphire / Ruby and Moissanite.
  • Gem Refractometer - measures the refractive index of each stone to confirm its identity and rule out glass or synthetic imitations.
  • Presidium Duo Gem Tester - provides thermal and electrical conductivity readings to further verify the stone type and detect simulants.
  • Presidium Gem Computer Gauge - that measures the gemstone and gives us an estimated carat weight.
  • Birmingham Assay Office ‘Gemmology Lab’ for an ‘AnchorCert’ which is an expert report with certification (selected items only).

These testing approaches gives us — and you — confidence that every gemstone is exactly what it appears to be.

🔬 Precious Metal Verification

We verify the purity of all precious metals through two methods:

  • Hallmark Checking — we examine and document all hallmarks or stamps present on the piece, cross-referencing with official hallmarking guides.
  • Birmingham Assay Office Assay — where hallmarks are unclear or absent, items are sent to the Birmingham Assay Office, one of the UK's four official assay offices, for independent verification of metal purity and hallmarked using the Laser method.

You can buy with confidence knowing the gold is gold, the silver is silver, and the platinum is platinum.

📷 Macro Lens Photography

We photograph every item using a macro lens, capturing minute details and any imperfections in high resolution. We believe in complete transparency — if there's a tiny scratch or a period-appropriate patina, you'll see it in the photos before you buy.

No filters. No flattering angles. Just honest, detailed imagery so you know exactly what you're getting.

Our Promise to You

Vintage jewellery carries history, character, and craftsmanship that modern pieces simply can't replicate. Our authentication process exists to protect that integrity — and to protect you as a buyer. If you ever have a question about a specific piece, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

— The Amberdales Vintage Team