Authenticity Guarantee Authenticity Guarantee

Sell fine jewellery with confidence

Expert verification by GIA® and verified returns—at no extra cost.

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Authenticity Guarantee is independent from, and not associated with, any brands sold on eBay. GIA® is not affiliated with eBay or sellers other than as a verifier of items.

  • Professional authentication

    Experts at GIA® verify your jewellery before sending it to the buyer.

  • Verified returns

    If the buyer returns your jewellery, it’s inspected before sending it back to you.

  • No extra cost to you

    We cover all costs of the authentication process.

Meet the experts

Meet the experts

GIA® is a non-profit organisation dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewellery by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science and professionalism. For more information, please visit gia.edu.

Learn more

What is Authenticity Guarantee?

eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee is designed to help buyers shop with confidence and protect sellers with verified returns. Authenticators physically inspect all eligible items before they are posted to the buyer and inspect all returns prior to sending them back to the seller.

How does Authenticity Guarantee work?

An “Authenticity Guarantee” blue tick badge is applied to all eligible items. When an eligible item is purchased, the seller is required to post the item to the authentication facility. There, the item goes through a multi-point inspection process. Once verified, the item is carefully packed and posted to your address at checkout via tracked, next day delivery, paid for by eBay!

Will I be charged a fee for Authenticity Guarantee?

No. eBay covers the cost of authentication and fast, tracked, next day delivery from the authentication facility to the buyer.

Additional information:

Country of origin will not be verified for any gemstone.

All listed items must meet the requirements of the Hallmarking Act 1973.

Does eBay prohibit the sale of harmful materials in jewellery?

Yes, eBay prohibits the sale of jewellery with materials found in eBay’s Hazardous Materials and Prohibited Items policies. Sellers should ensure their items comply with these policies as well as all applicable legal requirements related to levels of metals such as nickel cadmium, and lead in jewellery. It’s recommended that sellers check all product safety guidance, reports and portals as well as other guidance from organisations such as the Assay Office.

All jewellery listed on eBay must comply with the Jewellery Policy.

What aspects will be authenticated and how are aspect values determined?

Authenticity Guarantee for jewellery is limited to a review of claims regarding item quality and characteristics listed by the seller. These claims are assessed within defined ranges and tolerances. For example: Diamonds clearly stated as treated will not be verified for colour or clarity grades; coloured diamond treatments will not be verified; clarity is evaluated based on the area of the stone that is visible; areas of the stone that are covered by the setting will not be part of the evaluation and diamonds will only be verified for clarity when they are 0.15ct or more.

What jewellery items are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Only selected listings on eBay.co.uk are eligible for the Service. eBay may amend the eligibility requirements for Eligible Items, including, but not limited to category, and/or value of items and/or transactions. Although only selected items are eligible at the current time, the Authenticity Guarantee will be rapidly expanding. Check listings for the “Authenticity Guarantee” blue tick badge to see if items are included at this time. Eligible Items must satisfy the following conditions:

  1. Sold Price: £500 and over, exclusive of postage (Auction items are also included in the service if the eligible item sells above £500.)

  2. Condition: New and Used UK items

  3. Category: Fine Jewellery, Engagement & Wedding, Men’s Jewellery, Costume Jewellery

  4. Branded jewellery: Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bvlgari and Chopard

  5. Unbranded jewellery: Unbranded jewellery is defined as jewellery with no attributable designer, brand, or logo.

  6. Engraved branded jewellery: Eligible if the item was engraved by the brand (evidence may be requested e.g., receipt).

  7. Metal purity: Items must be one of the following metal types and purity: Sterling silver (925+), gold (9ct+), palladium (500+), platinum (850+). For plated metal, the base metal composition must be as listed above. For further information, please see here.

  8. Gemstone type: Gemstones are not required. For items with a main gemstone(s) the main gemstone must be a diamond, sapphire, ruby, emerald, agate, aquamarine, aventurine, bloodstone, blue chalcedony, brecciated mookaite, carnelian, cat's eye chrysoberyl, chrysoprase, garnet, jasper, malachite, morganite, mother of pearl, moss agate, onyx, pearl, peridot, tanzanite, tiger's eye, topaz or tourmaline. Secondary gemstone(s) can be any gemstone species except for ineligible stones (see below). For further information, please see here.

  9. Gemstone treatments: Eligible gemstones are commonly treated. In most cases, GIA will verify these treatments. However, some gemstone treatments can only be verified through complex advanced testing. In these instances, GIA will not verify the treatment. For a full list of treatments that GIA does not verify, please see here.

Additional information:

Country of origin will not be verified for any gemstone.

For a jewellery item to be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee, it must be listed at a price of £480 or over. If listed at the minimum price of £480, the final sale price will always be at least £500 as the buyer will be subject to a Buyer Protection Fee.

All listed items must meet the requirements of the Hallmarking Act 1973

The following items are not eligible for Authenticity Guarantee:

  1. Items not bearing the Authenticity Guarantee badge

  2. Jewellery listed in categories not named above

  3. Miscategorised items, e.g. other types of jewellery such as Jewellery Mixed Lots or other items listed in the categories named above.

  4. Ineligible stones

  5. Customised branded jewellery

  6. Engraved branded jewellery not outlined above

  7. Items purchased using an offline payment method

  8. Listings that offer local pickup

  9. Items posted to P.O. Boxes

  10. Items in breach of the Hazardous Materials, Prohibited Items and/or Jewellery policies.

Only items purchased on eBay.co.uk are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee. Items that post to a buyer address outside the UK are not eligible for the service at this time

All listed items must meet the requirements of the Hallmarking Act 1973

Ineligible items will not be authenticated. More information about item eligibility may be found here

What if I list my jewellery item for a buy it now price of £500 and accept a Best Offer below £500, will it be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Yes. Your item will be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee and sent to the authentication facility for inspection. Items with a Buy It Now price of £500 or more with either auction format or Best Offer are also eligible.

How do you determine Authenticity Guarantee eligibility for auction-style listings?

All auction-style listings that sell for £500 or above are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee.

Is customised jewellery eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

At this time, only customised jewellery that is unbranded is eligible for Authenticity Guarantee. Customised branded jewellery is not eligible for Authenticity Guarantee.

An example of a customised item may be an item where the colour or composition of the original stone has changed, or where gemstones have been added.

Are personalised items eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Yes, unbranded personalised items are eligible. Branded items are only eligible if the personalisation was carried out by the brand, and we may request evidence of the same.

For eligible branded and unbranded personalised items, the listing must state that the item has been personalised with an engraving. Our jewellery experts will verify that the personalisation matches what is stated in the listing.

I sell eligible items on eBay now, do I need to do anything?

In order to properly protect you and the buyer, our authentication process will be more stringent about how items are described. You should review your items listed in the Fine Jewellery, Engagement & Wedding Jewellery, Costume Jewellery and Men's Jewellery categories, making sure you accurately describe and photograph your item and follow steps 1-3 set out below.

  1. Meet the eligibility requirements.

  2. Select the appropriate Item Condition when you list your jewellery item:

    • New with tag: A brand-new, unused item in the original packaging (such as the original packaging/dust bag).

    • New without tags: A brand-new, unused item that is not in original packaging or may be missing original packaging materials. For example, a new jewellery item (with absolutely no signs of wear) no longer in the original packaging/dust bag falls into this category.

    • New with defects: A brand-new, unused, and unworn item. Possible cosmetic imperfections range from natural color variations to light scratches due to handling. The item may be missing the original retail packaging materials (such as original box or tag). New factory seconds and/or new irregular items may fall into this category. The original tags may or may not be attached. See the seller’s listing for full details and description of any imperfections.

    • Pre-owned: An item that has been used, worn, or showing signs of wear. The item may be missing the original packaging materials or accessories. Include full details and description of any imperfections in your listing.

  3. Accurately describe your item in detail and take as many photographs as needed. Ensure that you capture any defects, including tears in the box and any anomalies on the jewellery item, etc. If using stock images or screenshots, they must include original accessories. If taking your photos, everything pictured will be assumed as included. Accurate documentation and photographs will ensure your item can flow through the authentication process smoothly.

How can I confirm my item qualified for Authenticity Guarantee?

A blue tick with "Authenticity Guarantee" will automatically appear on your item's listing page. Upon making a sale, you can also check your order details in the Seller Hub sold section. If the item is eligible, you will receive a confirmation email indicating your item sold with Authenticity Guarantee.

Can I choose to not have my item authenticated?

No, eBay's Authenticity Guarantee is a required service designed to protect buyers and sellers.

Where am I posting the item?

eBay will provide you with the address of the authentication facility along with the buyer’s name and an ebay authentication code in the format 'ebay:xxxxxxx'. Be sure to use the exact delivery address eBay provides including the authentication code, as the authenticators need that to process your order. The item must be posted to the address provided, sellers cannot drop off or deliver items to the authentication facility in person. Once your item is verified and authenticated it will be forwarded on to the buyer’s address at no extra cost to you.

How do I provide tracking information?

Once you've posted the item, you'll need to upload tracking information through the My eBay tab. Providing tracking information ensures your item will be inspected and seller protections cover you. It also allows buyers to track the progress of their purchases through each step of our authentication process.

Can I offer combined postage?

Authenticity Guarantee items will not be eligible for combined postage promotions since each authenticated item is put into a separate order for processing. Please post all orders individually.

How do I track the status of my item?

You can track the status of your item throughout the process in the View Order Details section of your Seller Hub.

What happens at the authentication facility?

Once the authentication facility receives the jewellery piece, a jewellery expert confirms the item is consistent with the listing image, title, and description. Then they will perform a multi-point inspection process to verify metal type, purity, and gemstone quality, among other characteristics as described in the listing. Finally, they will generate custom documentation verifying the item’s authenticity, and carefully package the jewellery piece before posting it to the buyer via tracked, next day delivery, paid for by eBay!

Who is providing eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee service?

eBay is collaborating with GIA, the Gemological Institute of America, to provide our Authenticity Guarantee service. GIA is a nonprofit institute dedicated to ensuring public trust in gems and jewellery. As a trusted authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls, GIA upholds the highest standards in gemological research, education, and science.

Are reports verified and included in the repackaging?

If the listing states that a report will be provided, the jewellery expert will confirm the report was included with the item and will be repackaged. However, the information on the report will not be verified. Only reports from the Gemological Institute of America will be authenticated. Please note GIA will not be providing a new authentication report with the item.

Is there an Authenticity Guarantee card?

Yes, verified jewellery will receive a unique authentication card containing a QR code confirming that it is authentic.

What is the estimated delivery time for Authenticity Guarantee items?

The authenticator will inspect the item within two business days after they receive it. Following inspection, the item will be posted to the buyer via tracked, next day delivery.

Estimated delivery dates will automatically be adjusted on eligible listings.

How does the return process work with Authenticity Guarantee?

When a buyer decides to return an item in accordance with the seller’s return policy or if the item is not as described, they will be instructed to send the item back to the authentication facility. Your return policy determines whether you or the buyer pays for postage costs back to the authenticator. Within two business days of receiving the item, the authenticator will verify that the returned item matches the authenticity and condition in which it was originally sent to the buyer. If the item passes the authenticity and condition inspection, the buyer will be refunded and the item will be returned to you with fast, tracked, next day delivery, at no cost to the seller.

Why would my item be returned to me by the authenticator?

Your item will be returned to you if the item condition is not consistent with your photographs and item description. You will not be charged for the cost of posting the return and a refund will be issued to the buyer immediately. If the item’s authenticity cannot be verified, you will cooperate with removing the item from marketplace circulation.

What will happen if my item is damaged or lost while in possession of the jewellery experts?

In the unlikely event your item is lost or damaged while in possession of the authenticator, eBay will refund the buyer and will not seek reimbursement from you. Should the item be lost or damaged before reaching the authentication facility, the seller is responsible.

What will happen if my item is damaged or lost in transit when it is posted from the jewellery experts to the buyer?

In the unlikely event your item is lost or damaged, please notify eBay Customer Support.

What automated protections does eBay have for sellers?

We have automated protections for sellers who send their items to the authentication facility within their stated handling time. Once the item goes through inspection and is sent to the buyer, sellers are fully protected against any negative or neutral feedback. The Item Not Received cases will be removed from the Service Metrics dashboard before the next evaluation cycle. Should an Item Not Received case be closed and a refund issued to the buyer, the seller will not be responsible for that refund as long as eBay has tracking confirming delivery to the authentication facility, which can be found in the View Order Details.

The Authenticity Guarantee service for Jewellery (“Authenticity Guarantee” or “Authenticity Guarantee for Jewellery”) makes inspection and authentication services (“Services”) mandatory for certain items sold on eBay.co.uk. These Authenticity Guarantee Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) apply to the Authenticity Guarantee service for Jewellery and Authenticity Guarantee Eligible Items detailed below sold and purchased on eBay.co.uk and sets out the terms on which eBay offers you access to and use of the Authenticity Guarantee service for Jewellery.

  1. Applicability of eBay User Agreement.

    The eBay.co.uk User Agreement, eBay's User Privacy Notice, and all policies posted on our sites (collectively, and as the same may be amended from time to time, “eBay’s Policies”) apply in addition to these Terms. In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between these Terms and eBay’s Policies, these Terms will control as to all matters that they explicitly address. For all matters not explicitly addressed by these Terms, eBay’s Policies will control.

  2. Applicability of eBay's Money Back Guarantee.

    eBay’s Money Back Guarantee covers items returned within the seller’s return window and items that satisfy the eligibility requirements and are not received, are not as described or that arrive damaged. Learn more about eBay Money Back Guarantee. Learn more about eBay Money Back Guarantee.

  3. Description of the Authenticity Guarantee Service.

    After the purchase of an Eligible Item (description in Section 8(a) below) on eBay.co.uk the buyer automatically instructs eBay to initiate the Services. The item is then posted to an authentication facility to carefully inspect the item’s authenticity and conformity to the item’s listing details. Upon confirmation of the item by the authentication facility, it is properly packaged and securely posted to the buyer. If the item’s authenticity cannot be verified or the item is significantly not as described, the item is returned to the seller and a refund is issued.

  4. Description of the Services.

    The Services are limited to a review of claims regarding jewellery quality and characteristics by the seller. These claims are assessed within defined ranges and tolerances. For example: diamonds clearly stated as treated will not be verified for colour or clarity grades; coloured diamond treatments will not be verified; clarity is evaluated based on the area of the stone that is visible; areas of the stone that are covered by the setting will not be part of the evaluation; and diamonds will only be verified for clarity when they are 0.15ct or more. To learn more click here.

    The Services are provided at an authentication facility for Authenticity Guarantee Eligible Items (as detailed below) purchased and delivered within the United Kingdom (“Authentication Facility”). Authenticators will inspect the item within two (2) business days of receipt at the facility and the authenticated item will then be sent to the buyer as soon as possible. This check will include inspection of the item for authenticity, and for accuracy against the item listing. By purchasing an Eligible Item, you agree and acknowledge that you instruct eBay to direct the seller to send the Eligible Item to the Authentication Facility to perform the Services. By listing an Eligible Item for sale, you agree and acknowledge that eBay will require you to send the Eligible Item to the Authentication Facility to perform the Services in accordance with the buyer’s instructions. More information about the authentication experts and Services may be found here.

  5. Materials in jewellery.

    Sellers agree to comply with all applicable legal requirements related to levels of metals such as nickel, cadmium and lead in jewellery, as well as other poisons, carcinogens and materials prohibited under eBay’s Hazardous Materials and Prohibited Items policies. All jewellery listed on eBay must also comply with our Jewellery policy.

    Items may, in connection with the receipt of items and the performance of the Services for jewellery, be tested for radiation in compliance with certain governmental regulatory standards. If an item has a level of radioactivity in excess of the applicable standards, eBay will comply with the requirements of the applicable regulatory bodies. Irradiated items may not be returned to a seller if the item has a level of radioactivity in excess of the applicable standards and may be transferred to an entity authorized to receive irradiated articles.

  6. Results of the Services for jewellery.

    The results of the Services for jewellery do not include valuation, grading, or appraisal of any item. eBay does not provide valuations, gradings or appraisals of any items in connection with the performance of the Services.

    The results of the Services for jewellery are provided using the techniques, equipment and knowledge used or applied at the time the Services were performed, which techniques, equipment and knowledge may be different from the techniques, equipment and knowledge used at another time. The results of the Services for jewellery may differ from the results of similar services performed on the same item by others depending upon when, how, and by whom the services were performed, the then-current state of the technology and knowledge used for the Services, and may differ in the future as a result of changes and improvements in techniques and equipment.

    eBay is under no obligation to modify or update the results of the Services for jewellery once the buyer has received the item, notwithstanding any varying report from another service provider, change in technology or methods used to perform the Services, new services offered, or how results are provided for the same or a similar item provided in the past or in the future.

    The testing techniques and the technology used for testing items to determine if they are laboratory-grown, have been treated, and the like are subject to change, evolving and include certain subjective elements, and the ways in which an item might be laboratory-grown or treated are changing and dynamic and are becoming more sophisticated. As a result, it might not be possible in all cases to determine whether an item is unstable, laboratory-grown or has been treated using then-current techniques and technology and eBay makes no representations or warranties in this regard.

  7. Authenticity Guarantee Programme Fees.

    The Services are provided at no cost to sellers and buyers for Authenticity Guarantee Eligible Items that are bought or sold on eBay.co.uk; however, eBay reserves the right to institute, alter or amend fees or costs associated with the Services, at any time, at eBay’s sole discretion.

  8. Eligibility.

    a. Item Eligibility.

    Authenticity Guarantee is available for unbranded and selected branded (currently Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bvlgari, and Chopard) and Jewellery, in new or preowned condition, listed under Fine Jewellery, Engagement & Wedding Jewellery, Costume Jewellery and Men's Jewellery categories, and sold for GBP £500 or more. Auction items are also included in the service if the eligible item sells above £500.

    Only selected listings on eBay.co.uk are eligible for the Service. eBay may amend the eligibility requirements for Eligible Items, including, but not limited to category, and/or value of items and/or transactions. Although only selected items are eligible at the current time, the Authenticity Guarantee will be rapidly expanding. Check listings for the “Authenticity Guarantee” blue tick badge to see if items are included at this time.

    Branded jewellery is defined as jewellery with an attributable designer, brand or logo. Unbranded jewellery is defined as jewellery with no attributable designer, brand, or logo.

    All listed items must meet the requirements of the Hallmarking Act 1973.

    To be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee, unbranded and branded items must meet the following criteria:

    Eligible Items must satisfy the following conditions:

    1. Price: £500 and over, exclusive of postage (Auction items are also included in the service if the eligible item sells above £500.)

    2. Condition: New and Used UK items

    3. Category: Fine Jewellery, Engagement & Wedding, Men’s Jewellery, Costume Jewellery

    4. Branded jewellery: Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bvlgari, and Chopard

    5. Unbranded jewellery: Unbranded jewellery is defined as jewellery with no attributable designer, brand, or logo.

    6. Engraved branded jewellery: Eligible if the item was engraved by the brand (evidence may be requested e.g., receipt).

    7. Metal purity: Items must be one of the following metal types and purity: Sterling silver (925+), gold (9ct+), palladium (500+), platinum (850+). For plated metal, the base metal composition must be as listed above. For further details click here.

    8. Gemstone type: Gemstones are not required. For items with a main gemstone(s) the main gemstone must be a diamond, sapphire, ruby, emerald, agate, aquamarine, aventurine, bloodstone, blue chalcedony, brecciated mookaite, carnelian, cat's eye chrysoberyl, chrysoprase, garnet, jasper, malachite, morganite, mother of pearl, moss agate, onyx, pearl, peridot, tanzanite, tiger's eye, topaz or tourmaline. Secondary gemstone(s) can be any gemstone species except for ineligible stones (see below).

    9. Gemstone treatments: Eligible gemstones are commonly treated. In most cases, GIA will verify these treatments. However, some gemstone treatments can only be verified through complex advanced testing. In these instances, GIA will not verify the treatment. For a full list of treatments that GIA does not verify, please see here.

    The following items are not eligible for Authenticity Guarantee:

    1. Items not bearing the Authenticity Guarantee badge

    2. Jewellery listed in categories not named above

    3. Miscategorised items, e.g. other types of jewellery such as Jewellery Mixed Lots or other items listed in the categories named above.

    4. Items with ineligible stones: jade, opal, turquoise, quartz, amber and pearl

    5. Customised branded jewellery

    6. Engraved branded jewellery not outlined above

    7. Items purchased using an offline payment method

    8. Listings that offer local pickup

    9. Items posted to P.O. Boxes

    10. Items in breach of the Hazardous Materials, Prohibited Items and/or Jewellery policies

      Ineligible items will not be authenticated.

    b. Country Eligibility.

    he Authenticity Guarantee service on ebay.co.uk is available for buyers with a delivery address in the United Kingdom. eBay reserves the right to expand or limit the countries eligible for Authenticity Guarantee or the Services at any time, in its sole discretion, with or without notice.

  9. Party Roles

    1. Your Role as Seller.

      By listing an Eligible Item for sale on the eBay platform, you agree and acknowledge that eBay will require you to send the Eligible Item to the Authentication Facility to perform the Services in accordance with the buyer’s instructions and you authorise its inspection by authenticators subsequent to its purchase.

      Upon purchase, you are required to post the Eligible Item, using a postage service with signature confirmation, to a facility located within the United Kingdom, as directed by eBay. You cannot drop off or deliver the Eligible Item in-person at the Authentication Facility. Items must be sent to the facility individually unless part of a multi-item order. The cost of postage to the Authentication Facility is not covered by eBay.

      You acknowledge and agree that if the authenticators cannot verify an item’s authenticity, a refund will be issued to the buyer and you shall cooperate with removing the item from marketplace circulation.

    2. Your Role as Buyer.

      By purchasing an Eligible Item on the eBay platform you instruct eBay to direct the seller to send the Eligible Item to the Authentication Facility to perform the Services. You acknowledge and agree to inspection of the Eligible Item by the authenticator prior to your receipt of the Eligible Item. In addition, if a return is requested, you acknowledge and agree to post the Eligible Item using a postage service with signature confirmation to the Authentication Facility and to the inspection of the Eligible Item before the return is processed or a refund is issued. More information on returns under the Authenticity Guarantee can be found here.

    3. Circumvention of Buyer and Seller Requirements.

      If buyer or seller circumvent or do not comply with Sections 8.a or 8.b of these Terms, or if buyer or seller violate or are found to be non-compliant with the Terms, eBay reserves the right to take immediate action such as, but not limited to, account restriction or suspension.

  10. Data Privacy.

    eBay’s collection of personal information in connection with the Authenticity Guarantee program is governed by the User Privacy Policy that applies to your use of the eBay.co.uk website or, as applicable, another eBay international site. In order for the Authentication Facility to provide the Services under the Program, the order information, including, but not limited to your name, address, email address, telephone number, is provided to the Authentication Facility. By selling or purchasing an Eligible Item, you direct eBay to provide this order information to the Authentication Facility, who may disclose this information, however collected, to its affiliates, service providers, and other third parties (such as postage carriers and revenue authorities) as necessary to perform the Services.

  11. Lost, Damaged, or Items Not Delivered.

    Items that are lost or damaged during the Authenticity Guarantee process are eligible for eBay's Money Back Guarantee, subject to the eBay Money Back Guarantee guidelines. eBay assumes the delivery risk from the Authentication Facility to the buyer and any items lost or damaged at the Authentication Facility. Items that are undeliverable or otherwise unclaimed after thirty (30) days will be considered abandoned and eBay reserves the right to donate or otherwise dispose of the item in our sole and absolute discretion.

  12. Service Updates and Discontinuation.

    eBay has the right to amend, suspend temporarily, and/or discontinue permanently, the Authenticity Guarantee.