Give each gold object a fixed orientation and number
Begin with front, back and edge in a repeatable direction. Complete views, hallmark details, readings and attachments must keep the same item number.
- Sources: receipts, tags, boxes and the object number
- Structure: clasp, seam, solder and movable components
- Components: stones, pearls, cords and other non-gold parts
Choose supports and turning order for the particular construction. Date any change in condition and leave package-covered or uncertain fields open.
Photograph construction before discussing history
Hollow bangles, articulated chains and set rings can contain supports or mixed materials. Record the clasp, seams, openwork and moving sections before handling them further.
Make separate complete, hallmark, clasp, solder and component views for each item. A decorative front alone cannot show construction or later repair.
Attach an identifiable source and consultation date to manufacturing or historical statements. An old tag, oral account or web image remains supporting context.
Separate objects before arranging the readings
Enter the working name, visible marks, form, dimensions or weight, package and condition for each gold item. Mark every unreadable hallmark or inaccessible fitting.
Bag, photograph and weigh apparent fineness groups separately. Preserve the scale display and unit because grams, taels and troy ounces are not interchangeable labels.
Keep the raw reading before every conversion
Record each item in a jewellery set on its own, including hallmark and raw weight. List cords, tags, stones and non-gold ornament rather than treating the set total as net gold.
Group 999, 916, 750 and other marks as visible evidence only. Repair solder, replacement clasps, hollow supports and mixed construction still require inspection.
Store complete views, detail images, readings, packages and papers under one identifier. Add a later measurement with its date and instrument rather than overwriting the first.
Make the later review reproducible
Separate stones, pearls, cord, springs, watch movements and other non-gold parts from the stated gross weight. Do not call an inseparable total a net-gold reading.
Images can locate marks and visible damage, while fineness, hidden solder and components behind settings may still require direct examination.
Reconcile weights, structure and source date
Start with individual readings, the set total and the scale unit, then identify hollow construction, replacement clasps and repair locations. Keep these evidence types separate.
Place inseparable components and the unresolved net weight in the measurement field; put clasp, seam, solder and moving-part observations in the structure field.
Describe deformation, breakage or solder by precise location. A broad statement about good condition cannot be repeated by another examiner.
At handover, match every object, tag, box and document by number. Preserve oral information outside the visible hallmarks and readings.
Before review, compare the dates, units and camera direction across all entries. Retain both readings when a later measurement differs and explain the setup.
