Authentication Checklist Generator
Authentication requires checking multiple markers systematically. Our checklist generator creates brand-specific guides you can print and use while examining pieces. Each checklist covers the specific stamps, construction details, and red flags unique to that maker.
What to Photograph for Authentication
Good documentation is essential for authentication—whether you're evaluating a potential purchase or preparing a piece for professional review. Capture these details.
📸 Photography Checklist
Full piece front view
Even lighting, sharp focus, neutral background
Full piece back view
Often reveals construction details and marks
All signatures and stamps
Close-up, macro if possible, multiple angles
Serial number (if present)
Clear enough to read each character
Hallmarks/purity marks
Each mark photographed individually
Clasp mechanism
Open and closed positions
Any stones (loose or set)
Show setting style and stone quality
Wear patterns
Areas of wear should match usage patterns
Scale reference
Include ruler or coin for size context
Weight reading
Photo of piece on gram scale
Cartier Love Bracelet - Complete Authentication Checklist
The Cartier Love bracelet is one of the most counterfeited jewelry pieces in the world. This comprehensive checklist covers the authentication points professionals examine.
Exterior Examination
Interior Marks
Construction Quality
Packaging & Documentation (if present)
Red Flags - Immediate Concerns
This checklist covers common authentication points. Sophisticated counterfeits may pass visual inspection—professional authentication is recommended for purchases over $3,000. Weight verification against published specifications is particularly useful.
Sample Authentication Checklists
Below are condensed authentication checklists for popular luxury jewelry pieces. Use the generator above for complete, printable versions with detailed guidance.
Cartier Love Bracelet
Essential Authentication Points
✓ What to Check
- □Serial number engraved inside (format varies by era)
- □"CARTIER" signature is crisp, evenly spaced
- □Screw motifs are perfectly aligned around circumference
- □Screws sit flush with surface, not recessed or proud
- □Weight feels substantial (solid 18k gold)
- □Closure mechanism operates smoothly
- □Certificate and red box match serial number
- □Screwdriver fits precisely (not generic tool)
⚠ Red Flags
- •Lightweight feel or hollow construction
- •Crooked or unevenly spaced screws
- •Rough or poorly finished edges
- •Serial number font doesn't match Cartier style
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra
Essential Authentication Points
✓ What to Check
- □"VCA" hallmark on clasp with serial number
- □Clover motifs are perfectly symmetrical
- □Beaded border has consistent, even spacing
- □Mother of pearl has natural variations (not uniform)
- □Chain links are solid, not hollow
- □French eagle head mark for 18k gold
- □Pendant hangs with correct weight distribution
- □Clasp closure is secure with VCA branding
⚠ Red Flags
- •Perfectly uniform mother of pearl (may be fake stone)
- •Beading is irregular or inconsistent
- •Chain feels lightweight or tinny
- •Missing or incorrect hallmarks
Tiffany & Co. Pieces
Essential Authentication Points
✓ What to Check
- □"TIFFANY & CO." clearly engraved
- □Metal purity marked (925, 750, PT950)
- □Country of origin stamp present
- □Consistent font and engraving depth
- □Quality of construction (no rough edges)
- □Blue box and pouch in correct Tiffany shade
- □Return to Tiffany pieces have specific formatting
- □Sterling silver has proper weight and feel
⚠ Red Flags
- •Engraving looks stamped rather than engraved
- •Blue color on packaging is wrong shade
- •Missing metal purity marks
- •Lightweight or flimsy construction
More Authentication Resources
Authentication Checklist FAQ
Can I authenticate jewelry myself?
You can screen pieces using systematic evaluation, but definitive authentication of high-value items requires professional expertise. These checklists help you identify obvious problems and prepare informed questions. They're a first step, not a final answer.
What's the most important thing to check?
Overall construction quality. Authentic luxury pieces are made to exacting standards—finishing, weight, mechanism function, mark clarity. Fakes often get details wrong in ways that feel 'off' even before checking specific markers.
My piece passes the checklist but I'm still unsure
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, investigate further. Get a second opinion. For expensive pieces, professional authentication is worth the cost. Our contact page can connect you with authentication resources.
Does Cartier/Van Cleef/Tiffany authenticate pieces?
Policies vary. Cartier may verify pieces brought to boutiques, especially for service. Van Cleef has sometimes authenticated pieces. Tiffany generally doesn't authenticate pre-owned. Brand policies change—contact directly for current procedures.
How do I photograph pieces for authentication?
Good lighting (natural daylight or ring light), macro capability for marks, neutral background, multiple angles. Photograph ALL marks clearly. Include scale reference. Document weight on a gram scale if possible.
How to Use This Tool
- 1Select the brand you want to authenticate
- 2Choose the category if applicable (rings, bracelets, etc.)
- 3Review the generated checklist of authentication markers
- 4Print the checklist to use during physical examination
- 5Check off each item as you verify it on the actual piece
What This Tool Does
The generator produces detailed checklists covering signature placement, stamp formats, construction techniques, and common fake tells for six major luxury brands: Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Hermès, and David Yurman. Each checklist reflects how these brands actually mark their pieces across different eras.
⚠️ Important Limitations
Checklists provide structure, not certainty. Authentic pieces sometimes have unusual characteristics, and sophisticated fakes can check many boxes. These guides work best as a framework for systematic examination, not a pass/fail test. Complex or high-value pieces warrant professional authentication.
Need Professional Authentication?
Our experts at Spectra Fine Jewelry can help verify your pieces with hands-on examination.
Related Guides & Resources
Looking for Authenticated Pieces?
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