Valuations
Hand Engraving Services
A professional valuation is more than a simple estimate of cost; it is a vital document that confirms the identity, quality, and current market value of your most precious possessions. At our Square Mile showroom, we provide a comprehensive valuation service for insurance, probate, and private sale. As one of the few jewellers in the City offering these specialist assessments, we combine technical gemmological expertise with an intimate knowledge of the current jewellery market.
Our Valuation Services
We provide detailed, formal documentation tailored to your specific requirements:
- Insurance Valuation: In the unfortunate event of loss, theft, or damage, a current valuation ensures your insurance provider can accurately replace your item with one of equal quality. We recommend these are updated every three to five years.
- Probate Valuation: We provide compassionate and professional valuations for HM Revenue & Customs purposes, ensuring an accurate open-market assessment of jewellery within an estate.
- Family Division & Divorce: An impartial, professional valuation provides a fair basis for the distribution of assets during legal proceedings or family settlements.
- Private Sale & Asset Assessment: If you are considering selling a piece or simply wish to understand the current market standing of your collection, our experts provide a realistic “Open Market” assessment.
The Valuation Process
Initial Consultation
Visit our Square Mile showroom for a professional consultation. We will discuss the purpose of your valuation—whether for insurance, probate, or private sale—and provide a secure, itemised receipt for your jewellery.
Examination & Grading
Our specialists perform a meticulous technical assessment using precision gemmological instruments. We verify the purity of the precious metals, identify gemstones, and grade diamonds for colour, clarity, and carat weight.
Research & Appraisal
Once the technical data is gathered, we conduct thorough market research. By monitoring current London bullion prices and global gemstone markets, we assign a fair and accurate value to your items based on the type of valuation required.
Documentation & Photography
The process concludes with the production of a formal, certified valuation document. This includes a high-resolution photograph of your item, a detailed technical description, and our expert valuation.
Our Reviews & Testimonials
At City of London Jewellers, we believe that exceptional service and exquisite craftsmanship speak for themselves. Peter, our dedicated owner, takes immense pride in every piece of jewellery that leaves our workshop, and even more so in the relationships we build.
We are truly humbled and proud to have earned 130+ Five-Star reviews on Google, a testament to the kind, personal service and unmatched quality we strive to deliver every single day. But don’t just take our word for it – discover what our wonderful customers have to say about their experiences with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hand engraving and machine engraving?
Machine or laser engraving lightly marks the surface of the metal. Hand engraving involves a craftsman physically cutting into the metal with a sharpened steel tool. This results in a deeper, more durable inscription with a unique, reflective quality that develops a beautiful authorised character over time.
Can any piece of jewellery be hand engraved?
Most items made from precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum can be engraved. However, the surface must be thick enough to withstand the deep cut of the tool. We recommend bringing your item into our showroom for an assessment to ensure it is suitable for the design you have in mind.
What styles of lettering do you offer?
We offer a vast library of styles, from traditional Roman and Copperplate scripts to more contemporary block styles. If you have a specific font or a hand-drawn design, our engraver can often replicate it to ensure your piece is truly bespoke.
Is it possible to engrave an item I did not buy from you?
Yes, we are happy to provide our professional engraving services for items purchased elsewhere, provided they are made from suitable precious metals.
How do I choose the right design?
We invite you to visit us in the Square Mile to discuss your ideas. We can show you examples of different lettering styles and layouts to help you decide what will best suit your piece and the sentiment behind it.
Can you engrave on the inside of rings?
Absolutely. Engraving the inside of a wedding band or engagement ring is a popular way to hide a private message, date, or set of initials. Our engraver can work on curved interior surfaces with remarkable precision.
