Valuing gemset jewellery can be problematic with the growing prevalence of sophisticated treatments and synthetics, but increasingly it is watches that set the valuer the biggest challenge. The first task is to assess the condition of the watch, establish whether it is genuine and in its original state, an easily replaceable current model or has any rarity value. A changing approach from insurance companies has recently complicated watch valuations further. Where the original model is …

AnchorCert have recently been subjected to their annual UKAS audit for accreditation to ISO 17025 and have come through with flying colours. [caption id="attachment_1419" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Rebecca Share, Anu Manchanda, Sophie Whitehouse, Carla Goodfellow, Krishna Powar, Cheryl Owen"]

Andy McGowan's one kilogram 'Investment Bowl' made from 999 silver is a quirky but appropriate product in a year when many are stockpiling precious metals, considering them a safer investment than other options. [caption id="attachment_1413" align="alignleft" width="295" caption="Andy McGowan"] The commissioned piece weighs 60 ounces, marking 60 years of Her Majesty's reign and is resplendent with a full spread hallmark including, of course, the Diamond Jubilee Mark.

FORMALDEHYDE Formaldehyde is used in the production of fabrics and leather tanning. Exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to adverse health effects. Typically this occurs through inhalation or skin contact. Other chemical tests include: CHROMIUM (VI) IN LEATHER PENTACHLOROPHENOL (PCP), CHLORINATED PHENOLS (PCP, TCP and TeCP), DIMETHYL FUMARATE (DMF) GC-MS analysis, PHTHALATES PH – LEATHER, PH – TEXTILES, PH – PROCESSED WET TEXTILES and FIBRE COMPOSITION OF TEXTILE PRODU…