How We Authenticate Every Piece at MyLuxVault

By the MyLuxVault Gemology Team · 6 minute read · Category: Behind the Scenes

The biggest question we hear from new collectors is also the simplest: how do I know it's real? Here's exactly what happens between the time a piece arrives at our studio and the moment it appears on Instagram Live or in the vault.

1. Intake and chain of custody

Every piece arrives with its seller's paperwork, photos, and identifying marks. We photograph the piece on arrival, log its weight in grams to the second decimal, and assign it an internal article number. Nothing is handled, polished, or sized until we've logged it.

2. Metal testing

Every gold piece is tested three ways:

1. Stamp inspection under 10× magnification — 585 for 14K, 750 for 18K, 950 for platinum. We also note maker's marks and European hallmarks.
2. Electronic conductivity testing on a calibrated Sigmascope or equivalent.
3. Acid scratch testing on an inconspicuous edge, on any piece where the stamp is worn or unclear.

If the metal doesn't match what it claims to be, the piece does not enter the vault. No exceptions.

3. Diamond and gemstone verification

Every stone ≥0.25 ct is tested for:

• Diamond vs. simulant via thermal and electrical conductivity probes (these separate natural and lab-grown diamonds from moissanite, cubic zirconia, and white sapphire)
• Natural vs. lab-grown for stones above 0.50 ct, via UV fluorescence screening — when we see indicators, the stone goes to an outside lab for confirmation
• Carat weight measured by calibrated gem scale, then cross-checked against the seller's stated TDW

Every carat weight published on a MyLuxVault product page is our verified number, not the seller's claim.

4. Clarity and color grading

Using a darkfield loupe at 10× and a master set of color comparison stones, our gemologists assign:

• Color grade on the GIA D–Z scale
• Clarity grade on the GIA FL–I3 scale
• Cut quality (for round brilliants, on Excellent → Poor)

These are in-house grades. For stones ≥1.00 ct, we strongly recommend outside lab certification (GIA, IGI, or AGS) and note which pieces already carry certificates on the product page.

5. Structural inspection

Under magnification, we check:

• Every prong for wear, chipping, or bending
• Clasp mechanism, springs, and safeties
• Solder joints and chain links for weak points
• Bezel edges for cracks or previous repairs
• Pearl drill holes and knotting integrity
• Settings for signs of re-tipping or amateur repair

Any piece with structural concerns is either restored in our workshop or declined.

6. Cleaning and photography

Pieces are ultrasonically cleaned, steamed, and photographed in our lightbox against a calibrated background. The photos you see on the site are the actual piece — we do not use stock photography.

7. Final sign-off and listing

Before a piece goes live, it is signed off by a senior team member. Carat weights, metal purity, dimensions, and any notes (prong repair, polishing, plating) are entered on the product page. If a piece has a significant character — a visible inclusion, a patina, a unique provenance — we disclose it.

What backs our word

• Members of the Jewelers Board of Trade (JBT) — the industry's oldest trade bureau. JBT members are subject to peer review and financial disclosure standards.
• Appointment-only studios in Fort Lauderdale, FL and Austin, TX.
• Judge.me verified reviews on every product.
• 30-day authentication guarantee — if an outside lab finds a discrepancy with anything we disclosed, we refund in full.

What you should always ask before buying fine jewelry anywhere

1. What's the metal karat, and is it stamped?
2. What's the total diamond carat weight, and by whom was it verified?
3. Is there a certificate? If so, from which lab?
4. What's the return policy if an independent lab disagrees with the listing?
5. Is the seller a member of a recognized trade body (JBT, AGS)?

If the seller can't answer these in under a minute, keep shopping.

Frequently asked

Do you certify every piece with GIA or IGI?

Not every piece — it would price out the center of the market. We do provide outside lab certification on request and on any stone ≥1.00 ct. In-house grading is disclosed as in-house grading.

What if I have a piece independently appraised after buying?

If an independent gemologist disagrees with any disclosed detail within 30 days, we buy it back at full price. That's our authentication guarantee.

Can I visit your studio?

Yes — by appointment, in Fort Lauderdale or Austin. Email us or DM @FancyxFrances to book.

Do you buy pieces from the public?

Yes. See our sell with us page for direct purchase, consignment, and store credit options.

Ready to shop with confidence? Browse the MyLuxVault vault →