Jewellery and Watch Authenticity
Our Commitment to Authenticity
At Cunningham Jewellers, every piece we offer is selected and crafted to the highest standards. This guide explains the documentation and assurances you can expect when purchasing from us — whether you are investing in a hallmarked gold ring, a certificated diamond, or a Swiss timepiece with full papers.
Hallmarks & Precious Metals
A hallmark is an independent guarantee of a precious metal's purity, struck by an assay office authorised by the UK government. Under the Hallmarking Act 1973, all precious metal articles sold in the UK above certain weight thresholds must bear a recognised hallmark.
Every item we supply in gold, silver, platinum, or palladium carries the appropriate UK assay office hallmark — confirming metal type, fineness, and the sponsor's mark of the maker or retailer. You can read these marks with confidence: they are your independent assurance of what you are buying.
Made-to-order and bespoke pieces are hallmarked in the same way upon completion, prior to delivery. Hallmarking timelines for bespoke commissions are confirmed at the point of order. Learn more about our bespoke service on our Bespoke Makes page.
Gemstone Certificates
Significant diamonds and precious gemstones stocked by Cunningham Jewellers are supplied with grading reports from recognised gemmological laboratories — most commonly the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or an equivalent body. These reports detail the stone's carat weight, cut, colour, clarity, and any treatments.
Certificate availability varies by piece. Where a certificate accompanies a stone, this is stated clearly in the product listing. For stones set into bespoke commissions, we are happy to advise on independent certification prior to setting — please enquire at the time of commission.
Luxury Watch Papers & Service Records
Pre-owned and new luxury timepieces offered by Cunningham Jewellers are listed with a clear description of accompanying documentation. This typically includes:
- Original box and papers — where present, the manufacturer's guarantee card, chronometer certificates, and original packaging are included and noted in the listing.
- Service records — where a timepiece has been serviced, records are passed on to the new owner where available.
- Unworn or lightly worn condition — condition is assessed and described honestly in every listing.
Watches listed without original papers are clearly identified as such. The absence of papers does not affect the mechanical integrity of the timepiece, but it is a detail we believe every discerning buyer deserves to know.
What You Receive With Your Order
Depending on the piece, your Cunningham Jewellers purchase will be accompanied by some or all of the following:
- Branded presentation box or pouch
- UK hallmark verification (visible on the piece itself)
- Gemmological certificate, where applicable
- Manufacturer's box and papers, for new or pre-owned watches where available
- Care guidance for your specific metal, stone, or timepiece
For made-to-order and bespoke pieces, packaging and documentation are confirmed at the point of commission. We do not make blanket claims that apply universally across our range — if you have a specific question about what accompanies a particular piece, please contact us before purchasing.
Insurance & Valuation Support
We understand that fine jewellery and luxury watches represent a significant investment. We are happy to assist customers who require documentation for insurance or personal valuation purposes.
Insurance valuations — upon request, we can provide a written valuation for insurance purposes, based on current replacement value. This service is available for pieces purchased from Cunningham Jewellers. Charges may apply; please enquire directly.
Independent appraisals — for pre-owned or inherited pieces, we recommend consulting a Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA) or a member of the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) for an independent valuation.
To request a valuation or discuss insurance documentation, please visit our About Cunningham Jewellers page for contact details, or reach out to us directly.
Cunningham Jewellers is a UK-based independent jeweller. This guide is provided for informational purposes. For legal, insurance, or regulatory advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified professional.