Definitions used on this page
| Term | Meaning here |
|---|---|
| Condition documentation | Dated photos, dimensions, and weight that record visible state and measurable specs — not a certificate of authenticity. |
| Seller-supplied specification | Measurements, materials claims, or photos the marketplace seller provided; compare warehouse evidence only against that written claim. |
| Warehouse photo evidence | Images and measurements the shopping-agent warehouse provides before international dispatch; usually the main dispute record. |
| Authentication | Establishing metal, gemstone, brand, or origin identity through qualified testing or accredited reports — beyond visual warehouse QC. |
| Inspection window | The limited time to request photos, raise mismatches, or return before the parcel is booked internationally. |
Document visible and measurable details
Request sharp photographs of the full item, stamps, closures, settings, edges and any visible damage. Record dimensions and weight with the measuring device visible in the frame. Compare only with the seller-supplied specification.
Do not turn visual checks into authentication
A stamp, colour, weight or handheld tester result is not conclusive proof of metal, leather, gemstone or brand authenticity. For a high-value item, use an appropriately qualified gemologist, assay office or accredited laboratory.
Preserve the evidence trail
Save the original listing, seller messages, warehouse images and report together. If a measurable detail differs, raise it within the seller or agent return window before international shipping.
FAQ
Can warehouse photos prove jewelry is authentic?
No. Sharp photos of stamps, colour, settings, and closures document appearance. They do not prove metal fineness, gemstone identity, origin, or brand. Treat photos as condition evidence, not authentication.
What should I ask the warehouse to photograph?
Request sharp images of the full item, stamps, closures, settings, edges, and any visible damage, plus dimensions and weight with the measuring device visible in the frame. Compare only with the seller-supplied specification. See the QC photos / inspection window checklist and QC inspection guide for what to request in writing.
Is a stamp, colour, or weight enough to confirm metal or gemstone type?
No. A stamp, colour, weight, or handheld tester result is not conclusive proof. For a high-value item, use an appropriately qualified gemologist, assay office, or accredited laboratory when identity matters.
What if the warehouse measurements differ from the listing?
Save the original listing, seller messages, warehouse images, and report together. Raise the measurable mismatch within the seller or agent return window before international shipping. Do not wait until the parcel is in transit.
How does this fit with agent choice and shipping cost?
Use documentation to decide whether to ship, return, or escalate — not to pick a "best jewelry agent." Compare written photo and return rules with our shopping agent comparison and how to choose a shopping agent scorecard. For freight planning after you decide to ship, use the billable-weight calculator and the landed-cost / second-bill guide.
Primary and official sources
Page updated 2026-10-22. Checklist framework only — photos and measurements document condition; they do not prove authenticity. Recheck current agent photo/return windows before shipping.