How It Works
Precision & Integrity
At GemVal, we understand that your jewellery and gemstones are more than just beautiful items — they are treasured possessions, valuable assets, and often carry deep personal meaning. That’s why we take every care to ensure each valuation is conducted with precision, professionalism, and integrity.
Whether you need a valuation for insurance, resale, estate division or peace of mind, our process is transparent, thorough, and tailored to your needs.
When you arrive for your appointment, we begin with a friendly discussion about the items you've brought and the type of valuation you require — insurance or replacement, resale, estate, or other.
We’ll carry out a quick visual inspection and note any visible damage, missing stones, or unique features that should be documented in your valuation.
Next, we will clean your items using either our Speedbrite Ionic Jewellery Cleaner, which is a gentle method suitable for delicate stones like opals, emeralds, and turquoise, or an ultrasonic cleaner for deep cleaning of suitable items.
After cleaning, your jewellery will undergo testing, grading, and photography.
Each item takes between 60 to 90 minutes to process. You can drop off your items and collect them when completed or take advantage of our same-day drop-off and pickup service.
The Appointment Process
What Our Clients Say
“Recently had Janet from Gemval carry out some valuations on my jewellery — quick, efficient, lovely to deal with. Highly recommend!” - Tanya Taylor
The Valuation Process
Our valuation process is based on Australian and international best practices, recognised by leading insurance companies worldwide. Here’s what’s involved:
Authentication
Every gemstone is thoroughly tested to verify its authenticity. We require a minimum of three conclusive test results to confirm the gemstone's identity.
TESTING METHODS
We use up to four primary tests to reach a conclusive identification:
Microscope Examination
Ultraviolet Light Reaction
Refractometer
Specific Gravity (for unset stones)
ASSESSMENT & GRADING
The item is cleaned, weighed, and measured
All gemstones are graded for colour, clarity, cutting, and carat weight
Each gemstone is given an overall quality grade from 1 (Commercial) to 10 (Extra Fine)
Metals are tested to confirm their authenticity, manufacturing process, etc
Valuation & documentation
Valuation pricing is established through the use of multiple platforms, including the internationally recognised Gem Guide, which is relied upon by insurers worldwide
The valuation is carefully compiled and printed
All data is securely stored for seven years for future reference
Photographic records
Each item is professionally photographed, not just for aesthetics, but to document construction details
While only 2–3 images appear on your appraisal, more may be taken and securely retained
With your permission, these photographs can be shared with police or jewellers in the case of loss, theft, or replacement
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Valuations by a Registered Valuer are essential as proof of ownership. Insurance companies require professional documentation to provide adequate cover for your most prized possessions.
Valuations are also useful if you're:Selling: A certified valuation helps you achieve a fair market price and reassures potential buyers of authenticity — especially important with the rise of synthetic stones posing as natural gemstones.
Undergoing a Divorce Settlement: Legal professionals will request a certified valuation.
Managing a Deceased Estate: A valuation will certify the market value of jewellery and gemstones for probate or distribution.
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Only a registered and certified valuer can provide documentation that is recognised by insurance companies, legal professionals, and law enforcement. It ensures your valuation is accepted and trusted.
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This depends on the number and complexity of items. On average, each item takes approximately one hour to test and photograph, and another 30 minutes to compile the valuation.
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Yes, we value all jewellery, regardless of where it was purchased. During your appointment, we’ll discuss the most appropriate type of valuation for your needs — Insurance / Retail Replacement, or another category.
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An independent valuer is a qualified professional who is not affiliated with any insurer, broker, or jewellery retailer. This ensures the valuation is unbiased and accurate, based solely on the intrinsic value of the item.
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Valuations involve far more than a quick look. They require detailed testing, research, and professional analysis, using specialised equipment and internationally recognised pricing systems. Our pricing reflects the time, training, and tools required to produce a valuation you can trust. Importantly, we do not charge based on the value of your item — our fees are fixed and transparent.
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No. Accurate valuations require controlled lighting, specialist equipment, and access to reference materials — all of which are located in our purpose-built gem labs located in Mackay and Rubyvale (the Gemfields). This ensures consistency and reliability in every valuation we produce.
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A valuation is more than just a dollar figure. It provides:
Proof of ownership
Detailed descriptions and photographs for accurate replacement
Protection in legal or insurance disputes. Without proof of ownership, even a recovered item may be returned to a suspected thief.
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An appraisal is the process of identifying and assessing the item: the materials, quality, weight, and craftsmanship.
A valuation determines the financial value, based on the appraisal. You can’t have a proper valuation without a professional appraisal first. -
Once you’ve had an item valued by us, you’re automatically enrolled in our Lifetime Client Service, which includes:
Half-price valuation updates (based on current valuation pricing)
Continued support and access to our photographic records for identification or replacement
Frequently asked questions
Ready to Book?
If you're ready to have your jewellery professionally assessed and documented, or if you have any questions, we’re here to help.