Ask an Expert: How can we verify the authenticity of receipts, diamond certificates or valuations?

Question: How can we verify the authenticity of a receipt, diamond certificate or valuation and ensure they haven't been edited or fabricated? There are some simple and effective ways to validate jewellery documentation when you know where to look and who...

M

Matthew McHutchison, Managing Director, IVAA Claims

11 May 2026

1 min read

A

Ask an Expert: How can we verify the authenticity of receipts, diamond certificates or valuations?

Question: How can we verify the authenticity of a receipt, diamond certificate or valuation and ensure they haven’t been edited or fabricated?

There are some simple and effective ways to validate jewellery documentation when you know where to look and who to ask.

Receipts and valuations

Most documentation can be confirmed by contacting the original jeweller or valuer. Many chain stores and luxury brands have dedicated insurance teams who, with a receipt number, can verify the item details, but also check if the item was ever returned or exchanged.

They may be able to provide item specifications that are typically missing from a standard receipt — such as diamond quality, manufacturing details, or gram weights.

These details are usually needed to determine the correct replacement cost.

Going straight to the source saves your customer’s time, reduces the risk of unintentional (or intentional) upgrades, and confirms whether the piece is still available and what the current cost is.