Precious-metal jewelry
Understand common descriptions for platinum, gold, and silver jewelry before you compare pieces.
Open reference : Precious-metal jewelry from FTCThe collector’s reference desk
Know the piece. Keep the story.
Useful references for precious metals, gemstones, investment jewelry, antiques, and family treasures.
Identify the piece
Learn the language of metals, stones, and marks.
Gem Encyclopedia
Explore gemstone properties, varieties, and care. Identification of an individual stone still requires appropriate examination.
Open reference : Gem Encyclopedia from GIATrace a hallmark
A starting point for researching historic British hallmarks. A mark should be considered alongside the object, its age, and its construction.
Open reference : Trace a hallmark from The Goldsmiths’ CompanyCheck the record
Compare the documentation, not just the sales description.
Coin certification lookup
Look up a PCGS certification record and compare its details with the coin and holder being offered.
Open reference : Coin certification lookup from PCGSCoin certification lookup
Check an NGC certification number and the associated record. A matching number alone cannot establish a physical item’s authenticity.
Open reference : Coin certification lookup from NGCGem report check
Check information recorded on a GIA report. A report lookup is not an appraisal or a guarantee that the stone in hand matches the report.
Open reference : Gem report check from GIAGemstones, diamonds & pearls
Understand descriptions, treatments, and questions to ask when buying stones or pearl jewelry.
Open reference : Gemstones, diamonds & pearls from FTCPreserve what matters
Care begins with the material and the object’s condition.
Caring for metal objects
Museum conservation guidance for metal collections. Choose advice suited to the object; collectible coins and fragile finishes need particular caution.
Open reference : Caring for metal objects from Canadian Conservation InstitutePreserving family archives
Protect the photographs, letters, certificates, and records that help explain a family treasure.
Open reference : Preserving family archives from U.S. National ArchivesResearch the context & value
An interesting comparison is a clue, not a price guarantee.
Explore the collections
Research designs, makers, materials, and historical objects in the museum’s collection records. Museum records are not market valuations.
Open reference : Explore the collections from Victoria and Albert MuseumFind an appraiser
Find specialists and check their relevant discipline, qualifications, and experience. Ask about scope, fees, and the purpose of the appraisal.
Open reference : Find an appraiser from American Society of AppraisersRecord the story
Keep the evidence and the memories together.
Object ID
Use an established documentation checklist to record photographs, measurements, materials, identifying marks, and other distinguishing details.
Open reference : Object ID from International Council of Museums