A silver jewelry certificate is only as good as the lab and test behind it. A credible one names an accredited testing lab, states the test method (usually XRF), gives a measured silver content rather than "qualified", and carries a sample number you can verify. Brand cards printed by a manufacturer are a customer-facing promise, not a test. This guide shows what to check on each type of document and which ones matter for your market.
Part of our Sterling Silver Jewelry Wholesale Guide
Buyers often ask for "a certificate" without being sure which document they need. Deechy Jewelry Manufacturing & Design works with brands selling into the US, Europe and other markets, and the right paperwork depends on where you sell and what you need to prove.
The Four Documents People Call Certificates
| Document | Issued by | What it proves |
|---|---|---|
| Lab test report | Independent testing lab | Measured metal content of a tested sample |
| Hallmark | Official assay office | Legal confirmation of fineness, stamped on the piece (UK and some EU countries) |
| Gemstone certificate | Gem lab, e.g. GRA for moissanite | Identity and grading of a stone |
| Brand or authenticity card | The manufacturer or brand | A statement of what the brand sells; not a test |
Compliance reports, such as REACH tests for nickel, lead and cadmium in the EU, are a separate category; see our guide to REACH, CPSIA and Prop 65.
How to Read a Lab Test Report
- Lab name and accreditation: look for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation. In China, CNAS and CMA marks show national accreditation.
- Report or sample number: a unique ID, ideally verifiable on the lab's website.
- Sample description: what was tested, with a photo if possible. A report only covers the sample tested.
- Method: usually X-ray fluorescence (XRF). If no method is named, the result cannot be judged.
- Result: a measured value, for example around 925 parts per thousand for sterling, not just "pass".
- Date, signature and seal.
Warning Signs
- No named lab, or a "quality department" signing its own report
- No test method or no measured value
- No sample number or no way to verify it
- A report much older than the goods, or for a different product
Gemstone Certificates
Moissanite is often sold with a GRA certificate card stating colour, clarity and carat. It is a useful sales tool, but it is a commercial grading card, not the same as a diamond report from a major gem lab. Our moissanite wholesale guide explains how buyers use them.
What Deechy Provides
Every piece carries the S925 stamp. GRA certificates for moissanite and REACH testing are available at an extra cost, and logo engraving or branded packaging can carry your own authenticity card. If your market requires a specific test, tell us when you request a quote.
Using Certificates in Your Brand
Customers rarely read a lab report, but they notice a clear material statement, a care card and, for stones, a certificate card. Keep lab reports on file to answer marketplace or retailer questions, and give customers a simple card that matches what the report says.
Browse moissanite jewelry, such as this moissanite bracelet, or our full wholesale catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a silver jewelry certificate include?
The lab's name and accreditation, a report or sample number, a description of the sample, the test method (usually XRF), a measured silver content, and a date, signature or seal.
Is a manufacturer's authenticity card a real certificate?
It is a statement from the brand or manufacturer, not an independent test. It is useful for customers, but buyers who need proof should ask for a lab test report.
What is a GRA certificate for moissanite?
A commercial grading card for moissanite stating colour, clarity and carat. It helps sales but is not equivalent to a diamond report from a major gem lab.
Does Deechy provide certificates?
GRA certificates for moissanite and REACH testing are available at an extra cost. Every piece carries the S925 stamp.
Do I need a hallmark to sell silver jewelry in the UK?
Silver items above a set weight must be hallmarked by a UK assay office before sale. Check current thresholds before you import.
Part of our Sterling Silver Jewelry Wholesale Guide
