Trendspotter - Gemstone certificates

The market for both coloured stones and pearls has grown, and the value of a precious stone or pearl is determined by its gemmological makeup, natural rarity and finished quality.

What is a gemstone certificate?

Gemstone certification is the process by which a gemstone or pearl is tested and documented by a recognised gemmological laboratory.

This certification aims to provide an unbiased and accurate assessment of the gemstone’s qualities, which can be:

1. Identification, whether it is an emerald, sapphire or ruby for example
2. Carat weight
3. Dimensions, a recognised laboratory will always give dimensions in millimetres
4. Cut or shape of the gemstone
5. Some give a colour description, especially if the gemstone is a ‘pigeon blood’ type ruby
6. Treatments, whether there is evidence of heat treatment or another treatment
7. Origin, the geographical location or occurrence
8. Pearls are also tested to determine whether they are cultured of natural saltwater

Why is certification important for buyers?

They provide peace of mind, and buyers can be confident that the gemstone they purchase is genuine and accurately described.

1. Buyers can make more informed decisions with detailed information given about the item
2. Insurance valuations are much more accurate because the certificate provides all the necessary details for the valuer and will provide adequate coverage.

Why is certification important for sellers?

1. Higher prices, gemstones that are accompanied by a certificate can command higher prices because the buyers are more willing to pay a premium for the assurance of quality and authenticity.
2. Market differentiation, in a competitive market, offering a certificate shows a commitment to quality and transparency, which can be a significant selling point.

An early 20^th century Burmese ruby and diamond cluster ring - estimate £1,500 - £2,500

The certified gemstone market size has grown strongly in recent years, from $10 billion in 2024 to $10.63 billion in 2025, according to a report from The Business Research Company.  As consumers become more educated about gemstones, the demand for certified gemstones is also likely to increase, and this trend will drive the gemstone market towards greater transparency and accountability.

Cheffins has sold a number of gems over recent years with gemstone certificates. One particularly notable example was a Kashmir sapphire and diamond ring which sold in November 2024 for £260,000 against an estimate of £40,000 - £60,000. In the same year, an Art Deco emerald and diamond panel brooch achieved £13,000 against an estimate of £5,000 - £7,000.

 Kashmir sapphire sold for £260,000 in November 2024

There are also a series of pieces with gemstone certificates coming up for sale in the next Jewellery, Silver & Watches Sale on 1^st May. These include a natural saltwater pearl necklace which has an estimate of £3,000 - £5,000, an early 20^th century Burmese ruby and diamond cluster ring which is set to sell for £1,500 and £2,500 and a sapphire and diamond cluster ring which has a pre-sale estimate of £2,000 - £3,000.

To preview the next Jewellery, Silver & Watches sale at Cheffins, please click here.