Jewellery, Watches & Handbags - 10.12.19

Important Notice For Purchasers Our lots are almost exclusively antique or second hand and as such should be expected to have small signs of wear and use commensurate with the age of the piece. Viewing days are held prior to auctions. We recommend that you view any items you intend to purchase as refunds cannot be given for buyer’s remorse.

This doesn’t affect your statutory rights.

DIAMONDS Advancements in technology have led to some diamonds being treated in a number of ways, all designed to improve their appearance or alter their colour. Processes include but are not necessarily limited to: fracture filling, laser drilling, a combination of drilling and filling, HPHT treatment, irradiation and various coatings.

Buyers are also alerted to the fact that synthetic diamonds are now produced in large quantities. Whilst every effort is made to identify or disclose treated and synthetic goods, it is not possible for Tate Ward to guarantee that all diamond set lots do not contain such material. Tate Ward do not knowingly offer treated diamonds for sale, unless a gemmological opinion disclosing the type of treatment has been obtained and the treatment would be stated within the item description.

JEWELLERY & GEMSTONES Purchasers are advised that whilst great care has been taken in the examination of gemstones, it is not possible to test every gemstone in multi-gemstone lots.

COLOURED GEMSTONES Purchasers are advised that whilst great care has been taken in the examination of gemstones, it is not possible to test every gemstone within the constraints of time and equipment available outside of laboratory conditions. Any gemstone not provided with a laboratory report has been assessed by Tate Ward within the limitations of any mounting and an opinion has been given where possible. Historically, many coloured gemstones have been subjected to a variety of treatments designed to enhance their appearance. Certain enhancement methods, such as heating, are routinely used to alter aspects of rubies, sapphires, and other gemstones. Oiling is often undertaken to enhance the clarity of emeralds. The international jewellery trade has generally accepted these and other enhancement methods. Some treatments are permanent whereas others may only be semi-permanent, possibly requiring further re-treatment in order to retain their appearance. Because of the widespread variety of treatments within the jewellery industry, prospective purchasers should assume that all gemstones will have been treated unless statements are made to the contrary. Gemmological reports from internationally recognised Gemmological Laboratories will be noted in the item description where available.

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES Estimated diamond weights, colours and clarities given by Tate Ward are intended as guides for prospective purchasers, with the given limitations of mounts and settings, and are opinions only, not guaranteed by Tate Ward. Weights of coloured gemstones offered are extrapolated on the estimated dimensions, using trade standard formula. Due to the traditional cutting techniques for coloured gemstones it is possible there may be discrepancy between the stated estimate and the unmounted weight. Measurements and weights provided are estimates only. The information stated in reports is the opinion of the respective laboratory and is not necessarily the opinion of Tate Ward auctioneers.