What we check before a piece goes online

A piece arrives, and the first thing that happens is nothing at all: no polishing, no cleaning, no repairs. We photograph it exactly as it came in, because the surface tells us how it has lived.

Then the metal is tested and the marks are read under magnification. If a hallmark can be attributed, we say what it is. If it is worn or unattributed, we say that instead of guessing, and the description states what the metal test showed.

Every stone is examined for species, treatment and condition. Chips, abrasions and replaced stones get photographed under macro rather than shot from a flattering angle. Only then does the piece go to the bench, where claws are re-tipped and settings tightened. We leave patina alone unless there is a practical reason not to.