top of page

Terms and Conditions

​

General Terms and Conditions

1. About these Terms

These Terms and Conditions apply to goods and services supplied by The Hamilton Gold Company group of companies, including any relevant branch, trading entity, website, online store, invoice, quotation, receipt, email, WhatsApp message, telephone order, social media enquiry or in-store transaction.

Where a transaction is carried out by a particular company within The Hamilton Gold Company group, your contract will be with the company named on the relevant receipt, invoice, quotation, order confirmation or other transaction document.

These General Terms apply to all transactions unless a more specific section of our Terms and Conditions applies. Where there is any conflict between these General Terms and a more specific section, the more specific section will apply to that transaction.

Nothing in these Terms affects your statutory rights.

2. Business Areas Covered

These Terms apply to the full range of goods and services offered by The Hamilton Gold Company group, including but not limited to:

  • buying gold, silver, jewellery, watches, diamonds, coins, bullion, militaria and other valuables from customers;

  • selling bullion, coins and precious metals;

  • selling new, bespoke, vintage and pre-owned jewellery;

  • selling vintage and pre-owned watches;

  • jewellery commissions, alterations, repairs, resizing and related services;

  • valuations, inspections and other services supplied by us;

  • in-store, online, telephone, email, WhatsApp and social media transactions.

Some areas of our business are subject to additional specific terms. These include, but are not limited to, bullion sales, bespoke jewellery commissions, vintage and pre-owned items, watches, repairs, online sales and selling items to us.

Gold-by-post transactions are covered by separate Gold-by-Post Terms and Conditions.

3. Age and Legal Capacity

You must be at least 18 years old to sell items to us, buy from us, instruct us to carry out work, or otherwise use our services.

By entering into a transaction with us, you confirm that you have full legal authority, right and capacity to do so.

Where you are acting on behalf of another person, estate, company, trust, partnership or organisation, you confirm that you have full authority to act on their behalf and to bind them to the transaction.

We may refuse to proceed with any transaction if we are not satisfied as to your identity, age, authority, ownership of goods, source of funds, source of goods, or legal capacity.

4. Our Trading Entities

The Hamilton Gold Company operates through separate trading entities. Your contract will be with the specific company named on your receipt, invoice, quotation, purchase document, order confirmation or other written transaction record.

References in these Terms to “The Hamilton Gold Company”, “HGC”, “we”, “us” or “our” mean the relevant company within The Hamilton Gold Company group that supplies the goods or services or enters into the transaction with you.

No company within The Hamilton Gold Company group is responsible for the liabilities or obligations of another group company unless expressly stated in writing.

5. Geographical Scope

These Terms are intended to apply to transactions governed by the laws of England and Wales.

We primarily deal with customers in the United Kingdom. We may, at our discretion, accept enquiries, orders or transactions from customers outside the United Kingdom, but we are not obliged to do so.

Where we agree to supply goods or services outside the United Kingdom, you are responsible for any import duties, customs charges, taxes, restrictions, delivery issues or legal requirements that apply in the destination country, unless we agree otherwise in writing.

6. Quotes, Estimates and Valuations

Any quote, estimate, valuation, offer or price indication provided by us is given in good faith based on the information available to us at the time.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, quotes and estimates are not binding and may be withdrawn or amended at any time before we accept the transaction.

Quotes may be subject to market movements, inspection, testing, stock availability, supplier availability, errors, omissions, payment status, identity checks, anti-money laundering checks, and any other relevant circumstances.

Where a quote is time-limited, it will expire at the end of the stated period. If no time limit is stated, the quote should not be treated as fixed or guaranteed.

A valuation, estimate or purchase offer provided by us is not necessarily a formal insurance valuation, probate valuation, tax valuation or independent expert report unless we expressly agree to provide such a service in writing.

7. Pricing Errors and Stock Availability

We take reasonable care to ensure that prices, product descriptions, stock availability and other information are accurate. However, mistakes can happen.

We reserve the right to correct any obvious or accidental pricing error, description error, stock error, website error, administrative error or system error.

A product, service, quote or order is not binding on us where there has been an obvious mistake or error, even if you have received an automated confirmation or made payment.

Where an error is identified, we may cancel the transaction, refund any payment made, correct the price or description, or offer you the opportunity to proceed on the corrected basis.

All goods and services are subject to availability.

8. Formation of Contract

A contract is formed only when we expressly accept your order, instruction, sale, purchase, commission, repair, valuation or other transaction.

Automated website acknowledgements, email receipts, social media replies, WhatsApp messages or other informal communications do not necessarily amount to acceptance of a transaction unless we clearly state that the transaction has been accepted.

For goods purchased from us, we may require cleared funds, satisfactory identification, satisfactory anti-money laundering checks, stock confirmation and any other relevant checks before we accept or complete the transaction.

For items sold to us, a transaction is not complete until we have accepted the goods, completed any checks we consider necessary, agreed the purchase price, and made payment or otherwise confirmed completion in writing.

9. Right to Refuse, Cancel or Suspend a Transaction

We reserve the right to refuse, cancel, suspend, delay or reverse any transaction where we reasonably consider it necessary or appropriate.

This may include, but is not limited to, circumstances involving:

  • identity concerns;

  • age or capacity concerns;

  • ownership or authority concerns;

  • suspected stolen goods;

  • suspected fraud, money laundering or other unlawful activity;

  • source of funds or source of goods concerns;

  • payment risk or failed payment;

  • chargeback or attempted chargeback risk;

  • abusive, threatening or inappropriate behaviour;

  • staff safety or security concerns;

  • stock availability;

  • courier, delivery or insurance issues;

  • pricing, description, system or administrative errors;

  • compliance with legal, regulatory, insurance or internal risk requirements.

We are not obliged to give a detailed reason where doing so may compromise security, legal compliance, anti-money laundering obligations, fraud prevention or staff safety.

10. Identity, Anti-Money Laundering and Compliance Checks

We may require you to provide identification, proof of address, proof of ownership, source of funds information, source of goods information, bank details, company information or any other information reasonably required for legal, regulatory, anti-money laundering, fraud prevention, insurance or internal compliance purposes.

We may refuse, delay, suspend or cancel any transaction if you do not provide the information requested, or if we are not satisfied with the information provided.

We may retain transaction records, identification records, correspondence, photographs, CCTV footage and related information where required or reasonably necessary for legal, regulatory, anti-money laundering, fraud prevention, insurance, accounting, dispute resolution or business record purposes.

Our use of personal data is explained in our Privacy Policy.

11. Communications and Approvals

We may communicate with you in person, by telephone, email, WhatsApp, SMS, post, social media, website form, invoice, receipt, order confirmation or any other reasonable communication method.

You agree that written communications by email, WhatsApp, SMS, website form, social media message or other electronic method may be used for quotes, approvals, instructions, order confirmations, design approvals, return instructions, notices and other transaction communications.

You are responsible for checking that any details you provide are accurate, including your name, address, email address, telephone number, bank details, ring size, engraving text, delivery address, order details and any other relevant information.

We are not responsible for loss, delay or error arising from incorrect or incomplete information provided by you.

12. Customer Responsibilities

You agree to deal with us honestly and in good faith.

You are responsible for ensuring that:

  • any information you provide is accurate and complete;

  • you have authority to enter into the transaction;

  • you comply with any legal requirements that apply to you;

  • you inspect goods, descriptions, quotes, invoices, designs, specifications and confirmations carefully before agreeing to proceed;

  • you notify us promptly if anything appears incorrect;

  • you follow any care, use, storage, return, delivery or maintenance instructions we provide.

Where you fail to notify us of an error or issue within a reasonable time, this may affect our ability to resolve the matter.

13. Descriptions, Images and Information

We take reasonable care to describe goods and services accurately.

However, descriptions, images, weights, measurements, grades, colours, dates, ages, periods, gemstone details, watch information and other details may involve reasonable opinion, approximation or estimation, particularly for vintage, antique, pre-owned, handmade, natural, uncertificated or second-hand items.

Images may not always accurately represent size, scale, colour, tone, finish, condition, texture, gemstone appearance or other visual characteristics. Differences may arise because of lighting, photography, screen settings, magnification or natural variation.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, boxes, papers, certificates, reports, service history, provenance, gemstone grading, watch originality and other supporting information are provided only where specifically listed or confirmed in writing.

14. No Financial, Investment, Tax or Legal Advice

Information provided by us about precious metals, bullion, coins, jewellery, watches, diamonds, gemstones, market prices, values, resale, investment potential, tax or similar matters is provided for general information only.

We do not provide financial advice, investment advice, legal advice or tax advice.

You are responsible for making your own decisions and, where appropriate, taking independent professional advice.

Past performance, historic prices, current metal prices, retail values or valuation estimates are not guarantees of future value, resale value, investment return or liquidity.

15. Payment

We may specify the payment methods we accept for different types of transactions.

We may refuse certain payment methods for high-value, bullion, precious metal or other risk-sensitive transactions.

Goods will not be released, dispatched, collected or treated as fully purchased until we have received cleared funds and completed any checks we consider necessary.

You are responsible for ensuring that payments are made from an account or payment method acceptable to us. We may refuse payment from third parties or accounts that do not satisfy our checks.

Where payment is reversed, cancelled, disputed, charged back, recalled or otherwise fails after goods have been released or services have been provided, you remain liable for the full amount due, together with any reasonable recovery costs.

16. Delivery, Collection and Risk

Delivery, collection and risk terms may vary depending on the type of transaction and will be dealt with in the relevant section of these Terms or in the specific written terms agreed with you.

Where goods are sent by courier, post or insured delivery, you must provide accurate delivery details and ensure that someone is available to receive the goods where required.

We may refuse to deliver to certain addresses, countries, forwarding services, hotels, temporary addresses, PO boxes or other locations where we consider there to be increased risk.

We may require goods to be delivered only to the billing address, verified address, named customer, or another address approved by us.

For high-value goods, we may require identification, signature, collection in person, appointment-only collection, or other security measures.

17. Returns, Cancellations and Refunds

Returns, cancellations and refunds depend on the type of transaction.

Different rules may apply to in-store purchases, online purchases, bespoke or personalised goods, bullion, vintage or pre-owned items, watches, repairs, alterations, services and items sold to us.

Your statutory rights are not affected.

Where you wish to cancel or return an item, you must follow the process set out in the relevant section of these Terms or any written return instructions provided by us.

We may inspect any returned item before issuing a refund, repair, replacement or other remedy.

We may refuse or reduce a refund where goods have been damaged, altered, worn beyond reasonable inspection, resized, repaired by a third party, had tags or security features removed, had parts changed, or are returned incomplete, unless the law requires otherwise.

18. Complaints and Dispute Resolution

If you have a complaint or concern, you should contact us as soon as possible in writing, providing your name, contact details, transaction details, a clear description of the issue and any supporting photographs or documents.

You must give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect the goods, investigate the issue and propose an appropriate remedy before arranging third-party repair, alteration, testing, disposal, chargeback or legal escalation.

Where an item is alleged to be faulty, damaged, misdescribed or otherwise defective, we may require the item to be returned to us or made available for inspection before we can assess the matter.

If you instruct a third party to repair, alter, open, test, resize, polish, dismantle or otherwise interfere with an item before we have had a reasonable opportunity to inspect it, this may affect your rights and any warranty or remedy available from us.

19. Warranties

Any warranty offered by us is in addition to, and does not replace, your statutory rights.

Warranty terms vary depending on the type of goods or services supplied. Jewellery, bespoke items, vintage and pre-owned jewellery, watches, bullion, repairs and services may each have different warranty terms, conditions and exclusions.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, warranties do not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, misuse, neglect, loss, theft, improper storage, exposure to chemicals, water damage, impact damage, unauthorised repair, third-party alteration, or issues arising from failure to follow care or maintenance instructions.

Specific warranty terms are set out in the relevant warranty section of these Terms.

20. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in these Terms limits or excludes liability where it would be unlawful to do so, including liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, fraudulent misrepresentation, or any rights that cannot legally be excluded or limited.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability to you in connection with any transaction shall be limited to the price paid by you for the relevant goods or services, or the amount paid by us to you for the relevant goods, as applicable.

We are not liable for indirect, consequential or purely economic losses, including loss of profit, loss of opportunity, loss of investment value, loss of business, loss of goodwill, market movement, sentimental value, or losses that were not reasonably foreseeable at the time of the transaction.

Nothing in these Terms affects your statutory rights as a consumer.

21. Events Outside Our Control

We are not responsible for delay or failure to perform our obligations where this is caused by events outside our reasonable control.

This may include, but is not limited to, supplier delays, assay office delays, courier delays, postal disruption, loss or delay in transit, staff illness, security incidents, market disruption, technology failure, website failure, payment system failure, bank delays, natural events, fire, flood, theft, civil unrest, war, terrorism, government action, legal restriction or other circumstances beyond our reasonable control.

Where such an event occurs, we will take reasonable steps to minimise the effect and resume performance as soon as reasonably possible.

22. Intellectual Property

All content on our website, social media, marketing materials, documents, images, logos, text, designs, photographs, videos and other materials belongs to The Hamilton Gold Company group or its licensors unless stated otherwise.

You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, publish, modify, sell, exploit or use our content for commercial purposes without our prior written consent.

Where we create designs, CAD images, drawings, sketches, photographs, written descriptions, valuations, reports or other materials as part of a transaction, the intellectual property in those materials remains ours unless expressly agreed otherwise in writing.

23. Privacy and Data Protection

We collect and use personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Personal data may be used for transaction processing, identity checks, anti-money laundering checks, fraud prevention, accounting, legal compliance, insurance, dispute resolution, customer service, delivery, marketing where permitted, and business administration.

You should read our Privacy Policy for further details about how we collect, use, store and protect your personal data.

24. Changes to these Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time.

The version of the Terms that applies to your transaction will usually be the version in force at the time the relevant transaction is entered into, unless we are required by law to apply a different version.

We recommend that you review these Terms before entering into a transaction with us.

25. Severance

If any part of these Terms is found to be invalid, unlawful or unenforceable, that part shall be treated as removed or amended to the minimum extent necessary, and the remaining parts shall continue to apply.

26. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them, any transaction with us, or any goods or services supplied by us, shall be governed by the laws of England and Wales.

The courts of England and Wales shall have jurisdiction, subject to any mandatory consumer rights that apply.

Selling Items to Us

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies where you sell, offer to sell, submit for inspection, valuation or testing, or otherwise provide items to The Hamilton Gold Company group for possible purchase.

This includes, but is not limited to, gold, silver, platinum, palladium, jewellery, watches, diamonds, gemstones, coins, bullion, medals, militaria, antiques, collectables and other valuables.

This section applies to in-store transactions, appointments, home visits, postal submissions where not covered by separate Gold-by-Post Terms, email or WhatsApp enquiries, and any other situation where we consider purchasing goods from you.

2. Ownership and Authority to Sell

By offering items to us, you confirm that:

  • you are at least 18 years old;

  • you are the legal and beneficial owner of the items, or you have full authority from the owner to sell them;

  • the items are not stolen;

  • the items are not subject to finance, hire purchase, security, charge, lien or other third-party interest;

  • the items are not subject to any family, inheritance, estate, matrimonial, partnership, company, trust or ownership dispute;

  • no other person has a legal or beneficial claim to the items;

  • selling the items does not breach any law, court order, agreement, duty or obligation owed by you to another person.

Where items belong to an estate, company, trust, partnership, family member or third party, you must tell us before any transaction is completed and provide any evidence of authority that we reasonably request.

We may refuse to proceed if we are not satisfied that you own the items or have authority to sell them.

3. Your Responsibility for Family, Estate and Third-Party Consent

You are responsible for ensuring that you have all necessary consent before selling items to us.

This includes consent from family members, spouses, civil partners, executors, administrators, beneficiaries, trustees, business partners, company officers or any other relevant person.

We are not responsible for disputes between you and any third party where you have represented to us that you are entitled to sell the items.

If a third party later claims ownership, an interest in, or rights over items sold to us, you agree to indemnify us for any loss, claim, cost, expense or liability arising from that claim, except where such liability cannot legally be excluded.

4. Identification, AML and Compliance Checks

We may require identification, proof of address, proof of ownership, source of goods information, source of funds information, bank details, company information, estate documentation or any other information reasonably required for legal, regulatory, anti-money laundering, fraud prevention, insurance or internal compliance purposes.

We may refuse, delay, suspend or cancel any transaction if:

  • you do not provide the information requested;

  • the information provided is incomplete, inaccurate or unsatisfactory;

  • we have concerns about identity, ownership, authority, legality, fraud, money laundering, sanctions, stolen goods, vulnerability, coercion or suspicious circumstances;

  • we consider that proceeding would breach our legal, regulatory, insurance or internal risk requirements.

We are not obliged to give a detailed reason where doing so may compromise security, legal compliance, fraud prevention, anti-money laundering obligations, staff safety or crime prevention.

5. Inspection and Testing

Before making or confirming an offer, we may inspect, test, weigh, photograph, research, open, handle, clean, dismantle, measure, assess or otherwise examine the items.

Testing may include, but is not limited to:

  • visual inspection;

  • weighing;

  • hallmark inspection;

  • magnet testing;

  • electronic testing;

  • acid testing;

  • filing or scraping;

  • XRF testing;

  • Sigma or conductivity testing;

  • gemstone testing;

  • diamond testing;

  • watch inspection;

  • movement, case, bracelet or serial number checks;

  • consultation with third-party specialists.

Some testing may be destructive or semi-destructive. This may include filing, scraping, acid testing, removing surface plating, opening cases, removing stones, disturbing dirt or patina, or otherwise altering the condition or appearance of an item.

We will take reasonable care when inspecting and testing items, but you acknowledge that proper assessment of precious metals, gemstones, watches and other valuables may require testing that carries some risk.

Unless we have acted without reasonable care and skill, we are not responsible for loss of value, marks, scratches, filing marks, acid marks, opened packaging, disturbance to patina, exposure of plating, or other changes caused by reasonable inspection or testing.

6. Customer Consent to Testing

By submitting items to us for assessment, you authorise us to carry out reasonable inspection and testing.

Where more invasive testing is required, we may seek your express approval before proceeding. However, if you ask us to assess an item and testing is reasonably necessary to do so, you accept that some minor marks or changes may result.

If you do not want an item to be tested, opened, filed, acid tested, cleaned, handled or otherwise examined in a particular way, you must tell us before we begin assessment.

If you refuse testing that we consider necessary, we may decline to make an offer or may make an offer based on limited information.

7. Offers and Valuations

Any price, estimate, indication or offer we provide is a purchase offer or potential purchase offer only, unless we expressly state otherwise in writing.

It is not an insurance valuation, probate valuation, retail valuation, auction estimate, formal appraisal, tax valuation or independent expert report.

Our offer may take into account factors including, but not limited to:

  • precious metal content;

  • weight;

  • assay or hallmark;

  • gemstone content;

  • brand;

  • age;

  • condition;

  • authenticity;

  • resale potential;

  • refining value;

  • treatment or repair costs;

  • market demand;

  • precious metal prices;

  • commercial risk;

  • testing limitations;

  • stock requirements;

  • margin;

  • administrative costs;

  • our ability to resell, refine or process the item.

We are not obliged to explain our pricing methodology in detail or to match any valuation, online price, auction result, scrap calculator, competitor offer, insurance value, retail price or previous purchase price.

8. Metal Prices and Market Movement

Precious metal prices and market conditions can change.

Any offer linked to metal prices, commodity prices, exchange rates, watch markets, gemstone markets, auction markets or other fluctuating markets may be withdrawn or amended at any time before the transaction is completed.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, an offer is valid only at the time it is made and may change if you delay acceptance.

9. Acceptance of Offer

A sale to us is complete only when:

  • we have inspected the items to our satisfaction;

  • we have agreed a purchase price with you;

  • we have completed any checks we consider necessary;

  • you have confirmed your acceptance of our offer; and

  • we have made payment or otherwise confirmed completion in writing.

Acceptance may be given in writing, by signature, by email, by WhatsApp, by recorded verbal agreement, by conduct, or by any other method we reasonably accept.

You are responsible for ensuring that you understand and agree to the price before accepting.

10. Finality of Sale

Once you have accepted our offer and the transaction has been completed, the sale is final.

You will not be entitled to cancel the sale or require return of the items simply because:

  • you change your mind;

  • you later regret the sale;

  • you later believe the items were worth more;

  • a family member or third party disagrees with the sale;

  • another buyer, dealer, auction house or valuer provides a higher estimate or offer;

  • metal prices, gemstone prices, watch prices or market conditions change after the sale;

  • the items had sentimental value;

  • you did not obtain third-party advice before accepting our offer.

This does not affect any rights you may have where we have acted unlawfully or where rights cannot legally be excluded.

11. Processing, Resale, Refining and Return of Items

After a sale is completed, ownership of the items passes to us.

We may immediately resell, dismantle, repair, alter, clean, restore, test, send to a third party, send to a refiner, melt, scrap, process, separate, remove stones from, or otherwise deal with the items as we see fit.

You acknowledge that after completion it may be impossible to return the original items to you, even if you later change your mind or a dispute arises.

Where items have been melted, refined, dismantled, altered, repaired, resold, sent to a third party, or otherwise processed, physical return may not be possible.

12. Mistakes, Misdescription and Further Testing

We make purchase decisions based on the information reasonably available at the time of assessment.

If, before completion, we identify an error, misdescription, authenticity issue, testing issue, ownership issue or other material concern, we may amend or withdraw our offer.

If, after completion, we discover that an item was counterfeit, stolen, misdescribed, not owned by you, subject to a third-party claim, materially different from how it was presented, or otherwise unlawful to sell, we may take appropriate action. This may include reporting the matter to the police or relevant authorities, reversing the transaction where legally appropriate, seeking repayment, or pursuing any loss suffered by us.

13. Payment

Payment methods are at our discretion and may vary depending on the type and value of the transaction.

We may pay by bank transfer, cash where permitted by our policies and the law, or any other method we agree.

We may refuse to pay cash, refuse third-party payment instructions, or require payment to be made only to an account in your name.

You are responsible for providing accurate bank details. We are not responsible for delay or loss caused by incorrect bank details supplied by you.

A transaction may be delayed or refused if payment details do not satisfy our checks.

14. Vulnerable Customers, Pressure and Cooling-Off

We want customers to sell items to us voluntarily and with full understanding.

If you are unsure whether you wish to sell, need time to consider, wish to speak to a family member, or feel under pressure from anyone, you should not proceed until you are comfortable.

We may refuse, delay or cancel a transaction if we have concerns that you may be vulnerable, under pressure, acting under coercion, lacking capacity, or not fully understanding the transaction.

Once you voluntarily accept our offer and the sale is completed, there is no automatic cooling-off period for an in-store sale to us, unless required by law or expressly agreed by us in writing.

15. Items Left With Us

If you leave items with us for inspection, testing, valuation, offer, repair, authentication or any other reason, we will take reasonable care of them while they are in our possession.

We may issue a receipt, record, photograph or other acknowledgement of items left with us.

You must collect any items we do not purchase within a reasonable time after we ask you to do so.

If items are not collected within the period we specify, we may charge reasonable storage, insurance or administration costs, and we may take steps to return, store, dispose of or otherwise deal with the items in accordance with the law.

16. Third-Party Specialists

We may consult third-party specialists, refiners, assay offices, auction houses, watchmakers, gemstone specialists, laboratories or other experts when assessing items.

You authorise us to share relevant information, images or items with such third parties where we consider it reasonably necessary for assessment, authentication, valuation, repair, testing, sale or compliance purposes.

We are not responsible for delays caused by third-party specialists, testing facilities, refiners, assay offices, couriers or other external parties.

17. No Obligation to Purchase

We are never obliged to purchase any item offered to us.

We may decline to make an offer, withdraw an offer before completion, or refuse to proceed with a transaction at our discretion.

We may also limit the type, value, quantity or category of items we are willing to consider.

18. Stolen Goods and Police Enquiries

We cooperate with the police, law enforcement agencies, insurers and other relevant authorities where appropriate.

If we suspect that items may be stolen, unlawfully obtained, subject to a third-party claim, linked to fraud or otherwise suspicious, we may refuse the transaction, retain relevant records, contact the police or other authorities, and take any steps we consider necessary.

Where goods are seized, retained or claimed by the police, an insurer, a court, a true owner or another lawful authority, we will not be liable to you for the value of those goods where you did not have good title to sell them.

19. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability in connection with items offered or sold to us shall be limited to the amount paid by us for the relevant items, or, where no purchase has taken place, the reasonable market value of the items as assessed by us at the time they were submitted.

We are not liable for sentimental value, indirect loss, consequential loss, market movement, loss of opportunity, loss arising from delay, or loss caused by inaccurate, incomplete or misleading information provided by you.

Bullion Sales

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies to the sale of bullion, investment precious metals, bullion coins, bullion bars, precious metal rounds, investment gold, silver, platinum, palladium and similar precious metal products supplied by The Hamilton Gold Company group.

This section applies whether the transaction takes place in store, online, by telephone, by email, by WhatsApp, by invoice, by quote, by social media enquiry or by any other method.

Where there is any conflict between this section and our general returns, cancellation or online sales terms, this Bullion Sales section will apply to bullion transactions.

2. Bullion is Market-Linked

Bullion prices are linked to live and fluctuating precious metal markets, exchange rates, dealer premiums, stock availability and other market conditions.

Prices may change quickly and without notice.

Any price, quote, estimate or indication given by us for bullion is valid only at the time it is provided unless we expressly confirm a fixed validity period in writing.

We may withdraw, amend or reprice any bullion quote before the transaction is accepted and completed.

3. Price Fixing and Contract Formation

A bullion order is not accepted by us, and a contract is not formed, until we have expressly confirmed acceptance of the order.

Unless we expressly agree otherwise in writing, a bullion price is fixed only when:

  • we have confirmed the final price;

  • you have accepted that price;

  • we have received cleared funds within any time limit we specify;

  • the relevant product remains available;

  • we have completed any identity, anti-money laundering, fraud prevention, payment and compliance checks we consider necessary.

Automated website confirmations, informal messages, quote requests or payment attempts do not necessarily mean that a bullion order has been accepted.

If payment is not received in cleared funds within the time we specify, we may cancel, reprice or refuse the order.

4. Pricing Errors

We take reasonable care to ensure bullion prices are accurate. However, because bullion prices are market-linked and may be updated frequently, pricing errors, feed errors, website errors, administrative errors, stock errors or system errors may occur.

We are not obliged to supply bullion at an incorrect or obviously mistaken price.

Where we identify a pricing error, we may cancel the order, refund any payment made, correct the price, or offer you the opportunity to proceed at the corrected price.

5. Payment

Payment methods for bullion are at our discretion.

We may require payment by bank transfer or another cleared-funds method approved by us.

We may refuse cash, card payments, third-party payments, split payments, foreign payments or payments from accounts that do not satisfy our checks.

We may require payment to come from a bank account in the same name as the customer.

Bullion will not be released, dispatched, collected or treated as fully purchased until we have received cleared funds and completed any checks we consider necessary.

You are responsible for ensuring that payment is made accurately and on time.

6. Anti-Money Laundering, Fraud and Compliance Checks

We may require identification, proof of address, source of funds information, source of wealth information, bank details, company documents or any other information reasonably required for legal, regulatory, anti-money laundering, fraud prevention, insurance or internal compliance purposes.

We may refuse, delay, suspend or cancel a bullion transaction if:

  • you do not provide information we request;

  • the information provided is incomplete, inaccurate or unsatisfactory;

  • we have concerns about identity, payment, source of funds, fraud, money laundering, sanctions, criminal activity or suspicious circumstances;

  • payment is made by or appears to involve a third party;

  • we consider that proceeding would breach our legal, regulatory, insurance or internal risk requirements.

We are not obliged to give a detailed reason where doing so may compromise security, legal compliance, anti-money laundering obligations, fraud prevention or staff safety.

7. Cancellation and Change of Mind

Bullion and precious metal products are goods whose price is dependent on fluctuations in financial and commodity markets outside our control.

For that reason, once a bullion order has been accepted by us, you do not have a right to cancel the order simply because you have changed your mind, the market price has moved, you have found a different price elsewhere, or you no longer wish to proceed.

This applies to both in-store and distance/online bullion transactions, except where the law requires otherwise.

This does not affect any rights you may have if goods are faulty, misdescribed, not supplied, or where rights cannot legally be excluded.

8. Stock Availability and Substitution

All bullion products are subject to availability.

We may refuse or cancel an order if the product is unavailable, incorrectly listed, incorrectly priced, damaged, lost, subject to supplier issue, or otherwise unavailable for sale.

We will not substitute a bullion product without your agreement, unless the substitution is for an equivalent product and you have expressly agreed that substitutions are acceptable.

Where a specific coin year, mint, design, assay card, serial number, packaging type or condition is important to you, you must confirm this before placing the order and ensure it is expressly recorded in writing.

9. Bullion Condition

Bullion products are sold primarily for their precious metal content and investment characteristics, not as proof, presentation, collector-grade or numismatic items unless expressly stated otherwise.

Bullion coins, bars and rounds may show minor marks, scratches, dents, milk spots, toning, tarnish, handling marks, edge marks, packaging marks, capsule marks, assay card marks or other minor imperfections consistent with bullion-grade products.

Such imperfections are not normally treated as faults where the item remains genuine, correctly described and of the stated metal content.

If you require a proof, graded, boxed, collector-grade, date-specific or condition-specific item, this must be agreed in writing before purchase.

10. Authenticity and Description

We take reasonable care to supply genuine bullion products as described.

Descriptions may include metal type, weight, purity, mint, design, year, packaging, serial number, certificate or other product details where relevant.

You should check all product details before purchase and notify us promptly if anything appears incorrect.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, bullion products are not sold with any guarantee of future value, resale price, buy-back price, collectability, numismatic premium or investment performance.

11. No Investment, Tax, Financial or Legal Advice

Information provided by us about bullion, precious metals, market prices, premiums, resale values, historic performance, tax treatment, investment potential or similar matters is provided for general information only.

We do not provide financial advice, investment advice, tax advice or legal advice.

You are responsible for making your own decision about whether to buy, hold or sell bullion and should seek independent professional advice where appropriate.

Precious metal prices can rise or fall. You may receive back less than you paid if you sell bullion in the future.

12. VAT, Tax and Charges

Prices may include or exclude VAT depending on the type of product and the applicable tax treatment.

Investment gold, silver, platinum, palladium, coins, bars and other precious metal products may be subject to different VAT, margin, tax or reporting treatment.

You are responsible for understanding any tax consequences that apply to you.

We are not responsible for any tax, duty, reporting obligation, loss or cost arising from your purchase, ownership, sale, import, export or transfer of bullion, except where the law requires otherwise.

13. Delivery

Where we agree to deliver bullion, delivery will be by a method chosen or approved by us.

We may require insured, tracked and signed-for delivery. We may restrict delivery by value, address, postcode, country, courier availability or insurance availability.

We may refuse to deliver bullion to hotels, temporary addresses, PO boxes, forwarding addresses, shared addresses, unverified addresses, high-risk locations or addresses that do not match our checks.

We may require delivery only to the customer’s verified billing address or another address approved by us.

You are responsible for providing accurate delivery information and ensuring someone authorised is available to receive the delivery.

14. Collection

Where bullion is collected in person, we may require collection by appointment.

We may require photographic identification, proof of purchase, proof of payment, matching customer details, signature on collection, CCTV-recorded handover or any other security measure we consider appropriate.

We may refuse collection by a third party unless this has been expressly agreed by us in writing in advance and any identity or authority checks have been completed to our satisfaction.

Risk in the bullion will usually pass to you when it is collected by you or your authorised representative.

15. Delivery Risk and Insurance

Risk in bullion passes to you when the goods are delivered to the address agreed with us or collected from us, unless the law provides otherwise.

Where goods are sent by insured delivery, our responsibility is limited to using a delivery method that we consider reasonably appropriate for the value and nature of the goods.

You must notify us promptly if a bullion delivery is delayed, damaged, missing, incomplete or appears to have been tampered with.

You must retain all packaging and provide photographs, documents and assistance reasonably required for any courier, insurance or internal investigation.

16. Returns

Because bullion prices are market-linked, bullion cannot normally be returned for change of mind once the order has been accepted.

If we agree to accept a bullion return as a goodwill gesture, this will be entirely at our discretion and may be subject to inspection, market repricing, restocking costs, delivery costs, insurance costs, assay/testing, loss of premium, reduction in value and any other reasonable costs or losses.

This does not affect your statutory rights where goods are faulty, misdescribed or not supplied.

17. Buy-Backs

We may, at our discretion, offer to buy bullion from customers.

We are not obliged to buy back bullion previously sold by us.

Any buy-back price will be based on our assessment at the time of the proposed buy-back and may take into account metal prices, market conditions, product type, condition, authenticity, stock requirements, resale costs, refining costs, testing, margin and commercial risk.

A previous sale price, invoice price, retail price, spot price, advertised price or historic price is not a guaranteed buy-back price.

18. Storage

Unless expressly agreed in writing, we do not provide bullion storage or custody services.

If bullion is not collected within the agreed period, we may charge reasonable storage, insurance or administration fees.

We may also require re-verification of identity, payment and compliance information before release.

19. Sanctions, Export and Restrictions

We may refuse, delay, suspend or cancel any bullion transaction where we have concerns about sanctions, export controls, import restrictions, criminal activity, unlawful resale, onward transfer, destination country, payment source, customer identity or legal compliance.

You are responsible for ensuring that any purchase, ownership, export, import, transfer or resale of bullion complies with all laws and regulations applicable to you.

20. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability in connection with any bullion transaction shall be limited to the price paid by you for the relevant bullion product.

We are not liable for market movement, loss of investment value, loss of profit, loss of opportunity, loss of expected return, tax consequences, sentimental value, indirect loss, consequential loss, or losses arising from your decision to buy, hold or sell bullion.

Bespoke Jewellery and Commissions

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies to all bespoke, custom-made, made-to-order, personalised, altered, commissioned or specially sourced jewellery supplied by The Hamilton Gold Company group.

This includes, but is not limited to, engagement rings, wedding rings, signet rings, eternity rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets, remodelling work, stone sourcing, CAD design, hand-drawn designs, engraving, special orders, custom settings, and jewellery made or altered to your specification.

Where there is any conflict between this section and our general returns, cancellation or online sales terms, this Bespoke Jewellery and Commissions section will apply.

2. Bespoke Items are Made to Your Specification

Bespoke jewellery is made, sourced, altered or personalised specifically for you.

Because bespoke items are made to your specification, they cannot normally be cancelled, returned or refunded simply because you change your mind once work has started, materials have been ordered, stones have been sourced, designs have been prepared, CAD work has begun, or the item has entered production.

This does not affect your statutory rights where goods are faulty, misdescribed, not made with reasonable care and skill, or where rights cannot legally be excluded.

3. Design Process

The design process may include discussions, sketches, images, CAD drawings, renders, wax models, sample images, stone options, metal options, measurements, quotations, written specifications or other design materials.

Design materials are intended to help you understand the proposed item, but they are not always exact representations of the finished piece.

CAD images, renders, enlarged images and photographs may not accurately show real-life scale, colour, finish, texture, gemstone appearance, metal tone, proportions or how the item will look when worn.

You are responsible for reviewing all design details carefully before approval.

4. Customer Approval

We may ask you to approve a design, CAD image, specification, quote, stone choice, metal choice, ring size, engraving, finish or other detail before work proceeds.

Approval may be given in writing, by email, WhatsApp, signature, payment of a deposit, confirmation of a quote, or any other method we reasonably accept.

Once you approve a design, specification or production stage, we will be entitled to rely on that approval.

You are responsible for checking that all details are correct before approval, including:

  • design;

  • dimensions;

  • proportions;

  • metal;

  • stone selection;

  • stone size;

  • stone shape;

  • ring size;

  • engraving;

  • spelling;

  • dates;

  • finish;

  • setting style;

  • budget;

  • timescale;

  • any special requirements.

We are not responsible for errors that you approved or failed to correct where the relevant information was reasonably available to you before approval.

5. Changes After Approval

If you request changes after approval, we will try to accommodate them where reasonably possible.

However, changes may not always be possible once materials have been ordered, stones have been sourced, CAD work has been completed, casting has begun, setting has started, engraving has been carried out, or the item has otherwise entered production.

Any changes may result in additional charges, loss of deposit, increased costs, material wastage, supplier charges, design fees, labour charges and delays.

We are not obliged to make changes after approval unless we agree to do so in writing.

6. Deposits

We may require a deposit before beginning work, sourcing stones, ordering materials, preparing designs, creating CAD work, reserving items, instructing workshops or otherwise committing time or cost to a bespoke commission.

Deposits are used to secure our time, design work, sourcing work, materials, stones, workshop capacity and other costs connected with your commission.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise in writing, deposits are not automatically refundable once we have started work, incurred costs, sourced stones, ordered materials, prepared designs, instructed suppliers or otherwise committed to the commission.

If you cancel a commission, we may retain all or part of the deposit to cover costs and losses reasonably incurred, including design time, CAD work, stone sourcing, materials, supplier charges, labour, administration, restocking costs and loss of opportunity.

This does not affect your statutory rights.

7. Stage Payments and Final Balance

We may require staged payments or payment of the final balance before release, delivery, collection, fitting, resizing, engraving, hallmarking or completion of the item.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise, bespoke items remain our property until paid for in full.

We may refuse to release, deliver or allow collection of an item until all sums due have been paid in cleared funds and any checks we consider necessary have been completed.

8. Quotes and Price Changes

Bespoke quotes are based on the information available at the time they are given.

Quotes may change due to changes in design, metal weight, stone choice, stone availability, metal prices, exchange rates, supplier prices, workshop costs, hallmarking costs, additional labour, customer changes, testing requirements or other relevant factors.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, a bespoke quote is not fixed until accepted by us and any required deposit has been paid.

If you change the specification, we may issue a revised quote.

9. Timescales

Any timescale we provide for bespoke work is an estimate only unless we expressly agree a fixed deadline in writing.

Bespoke work may be delayed by design changes, approval delays, stone sourcing, supplier delays, workshop capacity, hallmarking, assay office delays, casting issues, remakes, quality control, courier delays, illness, holidays or events outside our control.

We will take reasonable steps to keep you informed of material delays.

We are not liable for losses arising from delay unless we have expressly guaranteed a deadline in writing and the law requires otherwise.

You should tell us before placing an order if the item is required for a specific date, such as a proposal, wedding, anniversary, birthday or event.

If a CAD design is not approved within a reasonable timeframe, this may delay the production schedule. Where an agreed deadline is in place, we cannot guarantee that deadline if there are significant delays in approving the CAD. Similarly, if you are supplying your own stones or precious metals, these must be sent to us promptly to allow sufficient time for production. While we understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, delays in CAD approval or receipt of customer-supplied materials are outside of our control.

10. Natural Variation in Gemstones and Materials

Diamonds, gemstones, pearls, opals, emeralds, sapphires, rubies, coloured stones, natural inclusions, metals and handmade items may vary in colour, tone, clarity, pattern, texture, fluorescence, cut, polish, symmetry, saturation, lustre, size and appearance.

Natural characteristics, inclusions, colour zoning, surface-reaching inclusions, minor irregularities, handmade variation and small differences between stones are not normally defects.

Where stones are uncertificated, descriptions of colour, clarity, carat weight, treatment, origin and other characteristics are our reasonable opinion only unless supported by a recognised laboratory report.

11. Stone Selection

Where we source stones for you, we may provide one or more options based on your brief, budget and availability.

Unless you expressly request and pay for a recognised laboratory-certified stone, stones may be supplied without an independent laboratory certificate.

You are responsible for reviewing and approving the selected stone before it is set, where approval is offered or required.

Once a stone has been approved and set into a bespoke item, you cannot reject the item simply because you later prefer a different stone, size, colour, shape, clarity, certificate status or appearance, unless the item is faulty or misdescribed.

12. Ring Size and Fit

You are responsible for providing or approving the correct ring size.

Ring size can be affected by finger shape, temperature, weather, weight change, pregnancy, medication, exercise, time of day, band width, ring profile, stacking with other rings and personal preference.

A ring size taken by us, another jeweller, an online guide, a plastic sizer, an existing ring or any other method is an estimate of fit and does not guarantee that the finished ring will feel exactly as expected.

Wide rings, signet rings, eternity rings, shaped bands and unusual profiles may fit differently from standard narrow bands.

Where resizing is possible, it may be chargeable unless otherwise agreed. Some designs cannot be resized, or can only be resized within limited tolerances.

We are not responsible for fit issues caused by incorrect information provided by you, third-party sizing, changes in finger size, or personal fit preference after approval.

13. Engraving and Personalisation

You are responsible for checking all engraving, spelling, initials, dates, symbols, messages, fonts and personalisation before approval.

We are not responsible for engraving or personalisation errors that match the wording, spelling or information approved by you.

Personalised or engraved items cannot normally be cancelled, returned or refunded simply because you change your mind, unless they are faulty, misdescribed or rights cannot legally be excluded.

14. Customer-Supplied Stones

If you supply stones for use in a commission, you do so at your own risk.

Customer-supplied stones may have unknown treatments, inclusions, fractures, chips, durability issues, previous damage or hidden weaknesses.

Setting, unsetting, cleaning, measuring, handling, tightening, resetting or working around stones can carry a risk of damage, especially with older, softer, included, treated, chipped, cracked or fragile stones.

We will take reasonable care, but we are not responsible for damage to customer-supplied stones caused by pre-existing weakness, hidden defects, inherent fragility or risks reasonably associated with the work, unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

We may refuse to work with customer-supplied stones if we consider the risk too high.

15. Customer-Supplied Metal

If you supply gold, silver, platinum, palladium or other metal for use in a commission or remodelling project, you acknowledge that old jewellery and scrap metal may not assay as expected once melted, reworked or combined.

Even if an item supplied by you is hallmarked, stamped or understood to be a particular fineness, the finished item may assay at a lower fineness after melting and remaking. This can happen because old jewellery may contain solder, previous repairs, mixed metals, plating, contamination, porosity, unknown alloys, or components of differing fineness.

For example, jewellery supplied as 18ct gold may not assay as 18ct once melted and remade. If the finished article does not meet the legal standard for 18ct gold, the Assay Office may only be able to hallmark it at a lower fineness, such as 14ct, or may refuse to hallmark it at the expected standard.

Where hallmarking is legally required, the finished item will be submitted to an Assay Office before release. The Assay Office can only apply a hallmark that reflects the actual fineness of the finished article after testing.

If the finished item does not assay at the expected fineness, this may result in additional cost, delay, amendment to the item description, remaking, refining, use of additional fresh metal, supply of alternative metal, cancellation of the commission, or acceptance of a lower hallmark where legally and commercially appropriate.

We are not responsible for the finished item assaying below the fineness expected by you where this is caused by the composition, contamination, solder, repairs, mixed fineness or unknown characteristics of customer-supplied metal, unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

Where an item is exempt from compulsory hallmarking, for example because it is below the applicable legal weight threshold, we may release it without hallmarking unless hallmarking is specifically requested and agreed.

16. Remodelling Existing Jewellery

Where we remodel, alter, unset, reset, melt, repair or incorporate existing jewellery, you acknowledge that older jewellery may have hidden weaknesses.

Claws, settings, stones, solder joints, shanks, chains, hinges, clasps, enamel, pearls, opals, emeralds, plated elements and previous repairs may be fragile or unstable.

Work on existing jewellery may reveal damage, wear, repairs, non-gold components, treated stones, imitation stones, low-grade stones, or other issues not apparent at the outset.

We will take reasonable care, but we are not responsible for pre-existing weaknesses, hidden defects or inherent risks of working on older or worn items unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

17. Hallmarking and Assay

Where hallmarking is required or requested, items may need to be submitted to an assay office.

Hallmarking may add time and cost to the commission.

We are not responsible for assay office delays, requirements, decisions or marks lawfully applied by the assay office.

If an item fails assay due to the nature, purity or composition of customer-supplied metal, additional costs or delays may apply.

18. Finished Item and Reasonable Tolerances

Bespoke jewellery is handmade, cast, set, polished, finished or assembled using specialist processes and may involve small tolerances.

Minor differences in dimensions, weight, stone position, finish, texture, colour, proportions, engraving placement or appearance may occur, provided the item is substantially in accordance with the agreed design and specification.

Such minor differences are not normally defects.

19. Inspection on Collection or Delivery

You should inspect the finished item carefully on collection or delivery and notify us promptly if you believe there is an issue.

If an issue is raised, you must give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect the item and, where appropriate, repair, adjust, remake or otherwise resolve the matter.

You must not arrange third-party repair, resizing, alteration, polishing, setting work or inspection before giving us a reasonable opportunity to assess the item, as this may affect your warranty and any remedy available.

20. Care and Maintenance

Fine jewellery requires care and maintenance.

You are responsible for wearing, storing, cleaning and maintaining your jewellery appropriately.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, bespoke jewellery should not be worn during heavy manual work, sport, swimming, bathing, sleeping, gym use, gardening, DIY, cleaning, impact activity or activities involving chemicals, abrasion, pressure or risk of impact.

Some stones and settings are more delicate than others and may not be suitable for everyday wear.

You should follow any care instructions provided by us.

21. Warranty

Bespoke jewellery supplied by us may be covered by a warranty against manufacturing defects, as set out in our Warranty section.

The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, misuse, neglect, impact damage, chemical damage, water damage, loss, theft, stone loss caused by wear or impact, damage caused by third-party work, failure to follow care instructions, changes in finger size, or customer-approved design choices.

A warranty is in addition to, and does not replace, your statutory rights.

22. Cancellation by Us

We may cancel or refuse to continue a bespoke commission where:

  • required information or approvals are not provided;

  • payments are not made on time;

  • requested work is unlawful, unsafe, impractical or inappropriate;

  • materials or stones become unavailable;

  • supplier or workshop issues prevent completion;

  • we identify ownership, authenticity, compliance, fraud or AML concerns;

  • the customer behaves abusively, threateningly or unreasonably;

  • continuing the commission would create unacceptable legal, commercial, reputational or practical risk.

Where we cancel, we will consider whether any refund is due after taking account of work completed, costs incurred, materials ordered, bespoke work carried out and the reason for cancellation.

23. Failure to Collect or Complete

You must pay any balance due and collect the completed item within 28 days after we notify you that it is ready.

If you fail to pay, collect, respond or complete the transaction within the period we specify, we may charge reasonable storage, insurance and administration costs.

After giving 28 days notice, we may take steps to recover our costs, retain the item until payment, treat the commission as abandoned, resell or dismantle non-personalised components where legally permitted, or take any other lawful action.

Personalised items, engraved items and items made specifically for you may have limited resale value, and you may remain liable for costs incurred.

24. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability in connection with a bespoke commission shall be limited to the price paid by you for the relevant item or service.

We are not liable for sentimental value, loss of opportunity, proposal or wedding disruption, event costs, travel costs, third-party costs, market movement, indirect loss, consequential loss, or losses caused by inaccurate information, delayed approvals, customer changes, customer-supplied materials or failure to follow care instructions.

Vintage, Pre-Owned and Second-Hand Items

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies to the sale of vintage, antique, pre-owned, second-hand, previously owned, restored, repaired or otherwise non-new items supplied by The Hamilton Gold Company group.

This includes, but is not limited to, vintage and pre-owned jewellery, antique jewellery, watches, pocket watches, chains, rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, pendants, brooches, silverware, coins, medals, militaria, collectables, gemstones and other second-hand goods.

This section applies whether the transaction takes place in store, online, by telephone, by email, by WhatsApp, by invoice, by quote, by social media enquiry or by any other method.

Where there is any conflict between this section and our general product descriptions, returns, cancellation or warranty terms, this section will apply to vintage, pre-owned and second-hand items.

2. Nature of Vintage, Pre-Owned and Second-Hand Items

Vintage, antique, pre-owned and second-hand items are not new.

They may show signs of age, use, wear, repair, alteration, polishing, restoration, previous ownership, previous resizing, patina, tarnish, replacement parts, scratches, dents, thinning, fading, stretching, rubbing, discolouration, stone wear, worn settings, softened detail, or other characteristics consistent with their age, history and nature.

Such characteristics are often part of the nature, appearance, value and appeal of vintage and pre-owned items. They are not normally treated as faults where they have been described, photographed, reasonably apparent on inspection, or consistent with the item’s age, type, price and condition.

3. Inspection Before Purchase

Where you purchase an item in store, you are responsible for inspecting it carefully before purchase.

You should satisfy yourself as to the item’s condition, size, appearance, suitability, weight, measurements, age, style, colour, fit, function and any other matter important to you before completing the transaction.

We encourage customers to ask questions before purchase if any aspect of an item is important to them.

Where you purchase online or at a distance, you should read the description carefully, review the photographs, check measurements and ask any questions before placing an order.

4. Descriptions and Opinions

We take reasonable care to describe vintage, pre-owned and second-hand items accurately.

However, descriptions of age, period, origin, maker, brand, model, reference, metal, gemstone identity, gemstone weight, gemstone treatment, diamond colour, diamond clarity, condition, previous repairs, originality, authenticity, provenance, date, rarity and value may involve reasonable opinion, approximation or estimation.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, descriptions are based on our inspection, experience, available information, visible marks, hallmarks, testing, customer-supplied information, third-party information and reasonable research.

Different dealers, valuers, auction houses, watchmakers, jewellers, gemstone specialists or collectors may reasonably form different opinions.

5. Photographs, Colour and Scale

Photographs are provided to help show the item, but they may not show every mark, scratch, repair, inclusion, dent, area of wear, colour variation or condition issue.

Images may be enlarged, cropped or taken under lighting that differs from normal wear or viewing conditions.

Colours, gemstone appearance, metal tone, surface finish, patina, dial colour, strap colour, size and scale may appear differently depending on lighting, photography, screen settings and magnification.

Measurements, weights and dimensions are approximate unless expressly stated otherwise.

6. Condition

Condition is assessed to the best of our reasonable opinion at the time of sale.

Vintage and pre-owned items may have condition issues that are not always visible or reasonably detectable without specialist, invasive or destructive examination.

This may include, but is not limited to:

  • previous repairs;

  • worn claws or settings;

  • thinning metal;

  • solder joins;

  • resizing marks;

  • stone chips or abrasions;

  • internal gemstone fractures;

  • loose stones;

  • replaced stones;

  • treated stones;

  • worn hinges, clasps or catches;

  • stretched bracelets;

  • polished or softened detail;

  • hidden cracks;

  • plated or filled areas;

  • replaced watch parts;

  • movement wear;

  • water damage;

  • corrosion;

  • prior restoration.

We will tell you about significant condition issues that we are aware of and consider material, but we cannot guarantee that every historic repair, alteration, replacement part or hidden issue will be identified.

7. Gemstones and Diamonds

Unless expressly stated otherwise, gemstones and diamonds in vintage, pre-owned and second-hand items are assessed while mounted and are not removed from their settings.

As a result, gemstone and diamond identity, weight, measurements, colour, clarity, cut, treatment, origin, natural or synthetic status, and condition may be approximate.

Unless supported by a recognised laboratory certificate or expressly stated otherwise, gemstone and diamond details are our reasonable opinion only.

Many vintage and pre-owned items contain stones that may have been replaced, repaired, recut, treated, enhanced or damaged during the life of the item.

Natural inclusions, chips, abrasions, colour zoning, surface-reaching inclusions, wear, old cuts, asymmetry, variation between stones and other age-related or natural characteristics are not normally defects where consistent with the nature and description of the item.

8. Metal, Hallmarks and Testing

Metal descriptions are based on available hallmarks, testing, visual inspection, XRF testing, acid testing, electronic testing, experience or other methods we consider appropriate.

Hallmarks may be worn, incomplete, altered, obscured, foreign, historic, absent or inconsistent with later repairs or additions.

Items may contain mixed metals, solder, plating, filled sections, repairs, replacement components, lower-grade components, non-precious parts or later alterations.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, metal weights may include stones, enamel, glass, steel, springs, clasps, movements, fillings, non-precious parts or other components.

9. Watches

Vintage and pre-owned watches require particular care and should not be treated as new watches.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing:

  • any timekeeping information is a snapshot taken at or around the time of inspection and is not a guarantee of ongoing accuracy;

  • timekeeping may vary depending on position, temperature, winding, wear, power reserve, service history, magnetisation, shock, age and use;

  • watches are not guaranteed to be waterproof or water-resistant;

  • service history is not guaranteed unless supported by documentary evidence;

  • originality is not guaranteed unless expressly confirmed;

  • parts may have been replaced during the life of the watch;

  • straps, bracelets, buckles, clasps, crowns, pushers, crystals, bezels, inserts, dials, hands, case backs, movements and other parts may show age, wear, polishing, restoration, replacement or repair.

A statement that a watch is “working”, “running” or has been time-tested does not mean that it has been fully serviced, pressure tested, waterproofed, guaranteed accurate, free from internal wear, or suitable for all-day daily wear.

10. Watch Water Resistance

Unless expressly stated in writing, no vintage or pre-owned watch is sold as waterproof or water-resistant.

You should not expose vintage or pre-owned watches to water, moisture, steam, swimming pools, showers, baths, saunas, hot tubs, cleaning products, sudden temperature changes or high humidity unless we have expressly confirmed in writing that the watch has been pressure tested and is suitable for that use.

Even where a watch has been pressure tested, water resistance can change over time due to age, seals, crown use, case condition, impact, servicing, temperature change and wear.

Water ingress is not covered by warranty unless we have expressly guaranteed water resistance in writing and the issue is caused by our failure to use reasonable care and skill.

11. Watch Service History and Internal Condition

We may not know the full service history of a vintage or pre-owned watch.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, a watch is not sold as recently serviced.

Opening a watch, inspecting the movement or assessing internal condition may not reveal every defect or future issue.

Mechanical and quartz watches may require servicing, repair, regulation, battery replacement, resealing, cleaning or other maintenance after purchase.

You are responsible for maintaining the watch appropriately after purchase.

12. Watch Misuse and Third-Party Work

Damage caused by misuse, accidental damage, impact, dropping, magnetisation, overwinding, incorrect date-setting, water ingress, moisture, opening the case, attempted repair, third-party servicing, bracelet alteration, incorrect battery replacement, failure to maintain or failure to follow care instructions is not normally covered by warranty.

If you believe there is an issue with a watch purchased from us, you must contact us promptly and give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect it before any third party opens, repairs, adjusts, services, polishes or otherwise works on it.

Third-party work may affect your warranty and any remedy available.

13. Jewellery Wear, Durability and Suitability

Vintage and pre-owned jewellery may be more delicate than new jewellery.

Some items are not suitable for everyday wear, heavy use, sleeping, swimming, bathing, gym use, manual work, gardening, sport, cleaning, childcare, contact with chemicals, or activities involving pressure, impact, abrasion or snagging.

Older claws, settings, chains, hinges, clasps, enamel, pearls, opals, emeralds, soft stones, hollow jewellery and fine antique pieces may require particular care.

You are responsible for wearing, storing, cleaning and maintaining items appropriately.

14. Ring Sizing, Alterations and Repairs

Vintage and pre-owned rings may have been resized previously and may not be suitable for further resizing.

Resizing, alteration, polishing, rhodium plating, stone tightening, repair or restoration may affect the appearance, strength, value, originality, engraving, hallmark, setting, stone security or finish of an item.

If we agree to resize, alter or repair a vintage or pre-owned item, the work may be subject to our Repairs, Resizing and Alterations terms.

If another jeweller, watchmaker or third party resizes, repairs, alters, polishes, cleans, opens or otherwise works on an item, this may affect your warranty and any remedy available from us.

15. Certificates, Boxes, Papers and Provenance

Boxes, papers, certificates, receipts, service documents, valuations, laboratory reports, provenance, military history, ownership history and other supporting materials are included only where expressly stated.

We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness or authenticity of third-party documents unless expressly stated otherwise.

Where an item is sold with a box, papers, certificate or other document, this does not necessarily mean that every part of the item is original, unaltered, serviced, unworn or in perfect condition.

16. Authenticity and Originality

We take reasonable care to assess authenticity and originality based on the information reasonably available to us.

However, vintage and pre-owned items may have had parts replaced, repaired, restored or altered over time.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, we do not guarantee that every component of a vintage or pre-owned item is original to the item.

For watches, this may include dials, hands, crowns, crystals, bezels, inserts, bracelets, clasps, case backs, screws, movement parts, straps and other components.

For jewellery, this may include stones, clasps, fittings, shanks, settings, chains, enamel, brooch fittings, earring fittings and other components.

17. Items Sold with Known Faults

Some vintage, antique, pre-owned or second-hand items may be sold with known faults, damage, repairs, restoration needs, missing parts, non-working functions or other condition issues.

Where a known fault is described or reasonably apparent, it will form part of the basis on which the item is sold.

You cannot reject an item simply because of a fault, wear or condition issue that was specifically described, photographed, brought to your attention, or reasonably apparent before purchase, unless the law provides otherwise.

18. Care After Purchase

You should follow any care instructions provided by us.

We recommend that vintage and pre-owned jewellery and watches are inspected, maintained and serviced regularly by an appropriate professional.

Claws, settings, clasps, hinges, chains, bracelets, watch straps, seals, crowns and movements can wear over time and may require maintenance.

Failure to maintain an item appropriately may lead to stone loss, breakage, water ingress, movement failure, chain failure, clasp failure or other issues.

19. Returns and Cancellations

Returns and cancellations depend on the sales channel and item type.

For in-store purchases, there is no automatic right to return an item simply because you change your mind, unless we agree otherwise or the law requires otherwise.

For online or distance purchases, cancellation rights may apply as set out in our Online Sales, Returns and Cancellations section.

Returned items must be in the same condition as supplied, unless the reason for return is a fault or other issue for which we are legally responsible.

We may refuse or reduce a refund where an item has been worn beyond reasonable inspection, damaged, altered, resized, repaired, opened, serviced, polished, cleaned, had tags removed, had parts changed, suffered water ingress, or been otherwise changed after delivery or collection, unless the law requires otherwise.

20. Warranty

Any warranty offered on vintage, pre-owned or second-hand items will be set out in our Warranty section or confirmed in writing at the time of sale.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, warranty does not cover:

  • normal wear and tear;

  • age-related wear;

  • disclosed faults;

  • cosmetic marks;

  • accidental damage;

  • misuse;

  • neglect;

  • loss or theft;

  • stone loss caused by wear, impact or worn settings;

  • chain, clasp, hinge or bracelet wear;

  • water ingress;

  • magnetisation;

  • shock damage;

  • overwinding;

  • battery depletion;

  • service requirements;

  • third-party repair, alteration, polishing, resizing, opening or servicing;

  • failure to follow care instructions.

This does not affect your statutory rights.

21. No Investment or Resale Guarantee

Vintage, antique, pre-owned and second-hand items are not sold with any guarantee of future value, investment performance, resale value, auction result, collectability, liquidity or buy-back price.

Any comments we make about market interest, collectability, rarity, replacement value, previous retail price, insurance value or possible resale are general opinions only and should not be treated as financial or investment advice.

22. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability in connection with any vintage, pre-owned or second-hand item shall be limited to the price paid by you for the relevant item.

We are not liable for sentimental value, loss of opportunity, loss of investment value, market movement, loss of profit, event costs, third-party costs, indirect loss, consequential loss, or losses caused by misuse, accidental damage, third-party work, failure to maintain the item or failure to follow care instructions.

Online Sales, Returns and Cancellations

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies where you buy goods or services from The Hamilton Gold Company group online, by telephone, by email, by WhatsApp, by social media, by invoice link, or by any other distance-selling method without visiting our premises in person.

This section applies to online and distance sales of jewellery, watches, bullion, coins, silverware, militaria, collectables and other goods, subject to any more specific terms that apply to the relevant item or transaction.

Where there is any conflict between this section and a more specific section of our Terms, the more specific section will apply.

2. Distance Sales and Cancellation Rights

Where you are a consumer buying from us at a distance, you may have a legal right to cancel certain purchases within 14 days after receiving the goods.

This right does not apply to every item or transaction. Some goods and services are excluded from cancellation rights by law or by the nature of the transaction.

Nothing in this section affects your statutory rights where goods are faulty, misdescribed, not supplied, or where rights cannot legally be excluded.

3. Items Excluded from Change-of-Mind Cancellation

You do not normally have a right to cancel for change of mind where the goods are:

  • bespoke, custom-made, made-to-order or made to your specification;

  • personalised or engraved;

  • altered, resized or modified at your request;

  • bullion, precious metals or other goods whose price depends on fluctuations in financial or commodity markets outside our control;

  • sealed goods that are not suitable for return if unsealed, where applicable;

  • services that have been fully performed with your agreement, where cancellation rights have been lawfully lost;

  • any other goods or services excluded from cancellation rights by law.

This does not affect your rights if the goods are faulty, misdescribed or not supplied.

4. In-Store Purchases

For purchases made in store, there is no automatic legal right to return goods simply because you change your mind, unless we agree otherwise or the law requires otherwise.

If we agree to accept an in-store return as a goodwill gesture, this will be at our discretion and may be subject to inspection, condition, timing, proof of purchase and any other reasonable requirements.

5. How to Cancel an Online Order

If you wish to cancel an eligible online or distance purchase, you must tell us clearly within 14 days of receiving the goods.

You can do this by email, post, website form, WhatsApp or another written method accepted by us.

You should provide your name, contact details, order details, item description, date of purchase and reason for return where possible.

You do not have to give a reason for exercising a legal cancellation right, but providing a reason may help us process the return more efficiently.

6. Returning Goods After Cancellation

If you cancel an eligible online or distance purchase, you must return the goods to us without undue delay and in any event within 14 days after telling us that you wish to cancel.

You are responsible for returning the goods safely, securely and appropriately packaged.

Unless we agree otherwise or the law requires otherwise, you are responsible for the cost of returning goods to us.

High-value goods must be returned using a tracked, insured and signed-for service suitable for the value and nature of the goods.

You are responsible for the goods until they are safely received by us.

7. Return Instructions

You must follow any return instructions we provide.

We may require goods to be returned to a specific branch, office, workshop or return address.

We may refuse or delay processing a return where goods are sent to the wrong address, inadequately packaged, uninsured, untracked, incomplete or without the information needed to identify the transaction.

You should not send high-value goods by ordinary post or any uninsured service.

8. Condition of Returned Goods

Returned goods must be in the same condition as supplied, except where the reason for return is a fault or other issue for which we are legally responsible.

You may inspect goods as you would reasonably be allowed to inspect them in a shop.

You must not wear, use, alter, resize, repair, clean, polish, open, service, dismantle, test, damage, expose to water, remove parts from, remove stones from, engrave, personalise or otherwise change the goods beyond what is reasonably necessary to inspect them.

We may reduce any refund to reflect loss in value caused by handling beyond what is reasonably necessary to inspect the goods, unless the law requires otherwise.

9. Tags, Security Seals and Packaging

Some items may be supplied with tags, security seals, tamper-evident features, packaging, boxes, certificates, papers, valuation documents or other accompanying materials.

You must return all items, packaging, documents and accessories supplied with the goods.

Removal of tags, seals or tamper-evident features may affect your right to a full refund where it prevents us from verifying the condition, identity or integrity of the item, unless the law provides otherwise.

Missing boxes, papers, certificates, straps, links, stones, accessories, packaging or other accompanying materials may result in a deduction from any refund.

10. Jewellery Returns

Returned jewellery must not have been worn beyond reasonable inspection, resized, altered, repaired, polished, cleaned, engraved, damaged or worked on by any third party.

We may reduce or refuse a refund where jewellery is returned with new scratches, dents, distortion, chemical damage, stone loss, damaged claws, missing stones, removed tags, altered finish, signs of wear or other changes occurring after delivery.

This does not affect your rights where the item was faulty or misdescribed.

11. Watch Returns

Returned watches must not have been worn beyond reasonable inspection, opened, adjusted, serviced, repaired, polished, pressure tested, exposed to water, magnetised, dropped, damaged, altered, bracelet-sized, had links removed, had straps changed, had casebacks opened, had seals disturbed or been worked on by any third party.

We may inspect the watch, serial numbers, condition, bracelet, strap, case, crystal, movement, packaging, tags, seals and accompanying documents before issuing any refund.

We may reduce or refuse a refund where a watch is returned damaged, altered, opened, worn beyond reasonable inspection, missing parts, missing links, missing documents, with water ingress, or otherwise changed after delivery, unless the law requires otherwise.

12. Bullion Returns

Bullion, investment precious metals and goods whose price depends on market fluctuations cannot normally be returned for change of mind once the order has been accepted.

Any return of bullion accepted by us as a goodwill gesture will be entirely at our discretion and may be subject to market repricing, testing, assay, condition assessment, restocking costs, delivery costs, insurance costs and any loss in value.

This does not affect your rights where goods are faulty, misdescribed or not supplied.

13. Bespoke and Personalised Item Returns

Bespoke, custom-made, made-to-order, personalised, engraved, altered or resized goods cannot normally be cancelled or returned for change of mind once work has begun or the item has been made, altered or personalised to your specification.

This does not affect your rights where goods are faulty, misdescribed, not made with reasonable care and skill, or where rights cannot legally be excluded.

14. Refunds

Where you validly cancel an eligible online or distance purchase, we will refund the amount due using the original payment method where reasonably possible, unless we agree otherwise.

We may withhold the refund until we have received the goods back or you have provided evidence of return, unless the law requires otherwise.

We may inspect returned goods before issuing a refund.

Where deductions are permitted by law, we may reduce the refund to reflect loss in value caused by handling, damage, alteration, missing items, missing packaging, missing documents, removed tags, third-party work or other changes after delivery.

15. Delivery Charges

Where you validly cancel an eligible online or distance purchase, we will refund standard outbound delivery charges where required by law.

We are not required to refund additional delivery costs where you chose a more expensive delivery method than our standard delivery option.

Return delivery costs are your responsibility unless the goods are faulty, misdescribed, not supplied correctly, or we agree otherwise.

16. Faulty or Misdescribed Goods

If you believe goods are faulty, misdescribed, damaged in transit or not what you ordered, you must contact us promptly and provide your name, order details, description of the issue and supporting photographs where possible.

You must give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect the goods.

You must not arrange third-party repair, alteration, opening, testing, polishing, resizing, servicing or other work before giving us a reasonable opportunity to inspect the goods, as this may affect your rights and any remedy available.

Where goods are faulty or misdescribed, we will deal with the matter in accordance with your statutory rights.

17. Damage in Transit

If goods arrive damaged, incomplete, tampered with or with damaged packaging, you must notify us promptly.

You should retain all packaging, documents, labels and delivery materials and provide photographs where requested.

Failure to notify us promptly or retain packaging may affect our ability to investigate the issue with the courier or insurer.

18. Lost or Delayed Returns

You are responsible for returned goods until they are received by us.

If goods are lost, damaged or delayed during return shipping arranged by you, you may need to claim from your chosen courier or insurer.

We are not responsible for returned goods that are lost, damaged, underinsured, incorrectly addressed, inadequately packaged or sent using an unsuitable delivery method, unless the law requires otherwise.

19. International Online Sales

We may accept international online orders at our discretion.

You are responsible for any import duties, customs charges, taxes, clearance fees, restrictions, delivery issues, return costs and legal requirements that apply in the destination country.

If an international order is refused, returned, delayed, seized, held by customs or subject to additional charges, you are responsible for any resulting costs unless the issue was caused by our breach of contract or where the law requires otherwise.

We may refuse to sell or deliver internationally where we consider there to be increased legal, fraud, insurance, courier, customs or compliance risk.

20. Fraud Prevention and Security

We may refuse, delay, cancel or require additional checks for online or distance orders where we have concerns about fraud, identity, payment, delivery address, chargeback risk, third-party payment, sanctions, money laundering, courier risk or other suspicious circumstances.

We may require delivery to a verified address, payment from an account in the customer’s name, photographic identification, proof of address, source of funds information, signed confirmation, collection in person or other security measures.

21. No Return Where You Sell Items to Us

This section applies to goods bought by you from us.

It does not apply where you sell goods to us. Where you sell items to us, the Selling Items to Us section applies.

Once you have accepted our purchase offer and the transaction is completed, the sale to us is final, subject to any rights that cannot legally be excluded.

22. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability in connection with online sales, returns and cancellations shall be limited to the price paid by you for the relevant goods or services.

We are not liable for sentimental value, loss of opportunity, loss of investment value, market movement, loss of profit, event costs, third-party costs, indirect loss, consequential loss, or losses caused by misuse, accidental damage, third-party work, unsuitable return shipping, inadequate packaging or failure to follow return instructions.

Repairs, Resizing and Alterations

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies where The Hamilton Gold Company group agrees to inspect, repair, resize, alter, clean, polish, restore, plate, rhodium plate, engrave, unset, reset, tighten stones, replace stones, replace parts, work on, or otherwise provide services in relation to jewellery, watches, silverware, medals, militaria, collectables or other items.

This section applies whether the item was originally supplied by us or by someone else.

Where there is any conflict between this section and our General Terms, Warranty Terms or Vintage, Pre-Owned and Second-Hand Items terms, this section will apply to repair, resizing and alteration work.

2. Assessment Before Work

Before carrying out work, we may inspect the item and provide an estimate, quote or recommendation.

Any initial assessment is based on the condition of the item as far as reasonably visible or apparent at the time.

Items may have hidden weaknesses, previous repairs, internal defects, cracks, worn settings, brittle metal, porosity, solder joins, plating, filled areas, treated stones, fragile stones, loose stones, worn watch parts or other issues that are not apparent until work begins.

We may revise an estimate or refuse to continue work if further issues become apparent.

3. Estimates and Quotes

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, estimates are not fixed prices.

A quote may change if:

  • further work is needed;

  • hidden issues are discovered;

  • parts, stones, metal or materials are required;

  • third-party workshop costs change;

  • the scope of work changes;

  • you request additional work;

  • the item is more complex, fragile or worn than first apparent;

  • specialist testing, hallmarking, postage, insurance or third-party work is required.

We will seek your approval before carrying out materially different or materially more expensive work where reasonably practical.

4. Customer Approval

We may require your approval before starting work or before proceeding with additional work.

Approval may be given in writing, by email, WhatsApp, SMS, signature, payment, verbal confirmation recorded by us, or any other method we reasonably accept.

You are responsible for checking that the agreed work is correct, including size, finish, engraving, stone choice, repair instructions, budget and any special requirements.

5. Inherent Risk of Repair Work

You acknowledge that repair, resizing and alteration work carries inherent risk, particularly with vintage, antique, worn, delicate, previously repaired, hollow, plated, enamelled, stone-set, pearl-set, opal-set, emerald-set, watch-related or fragile items.

Even where reasonable care and skill are used, work may reveal or worsen pre-existing weaknesses.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

  • stones becoming loose or falling out;

  • claws or settings breaking;

  • chains, hinges, clasps or links failing;

  • solder joins opening;

  • cracks becoming visible;

  • plating or filling being exposed;

  • enamel, pearl, opal or softer stones being affected;

  • old repairs failing;

  • metal distorting during resizing;

  • engraving, hallmarks or detail being affected;

  • watch parts failing or requiring replacement;

  • previously hidden damage becoming apparent.

We will take reasonable care, but we are not responsible for damage caused by pre-existing weakness, inherent fragility, age, wear, previous repair, hidden defects or unavoidable risks of the work, unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

6. Resizing

Ring resizing is subject to the design, metal, setting, stones, engraving, hallmarking, previous repairs, shank thickness, shape, age and condition of the ring.

Some rings cannot be resized, or can only be resized within limited tolerances.

Resizing may affect:

  • shape;

  • finish;

  • engraving;

  • hallmark position or clarity;

  • stone security;

  • setting strength;

  • pattern continuity;

  • symmetry;

  • comfort;

  • appearance;

  • future durability.

A ring size is an estimate of fit and cannot guarantee permanent comfort because finger size may vary due to temperature, weather, weight change, pregnancy, medication, exercise, time of day, ring width, ring profile and personal preference.

Where you provide or approve a ring size, you are responsible for that choice.

Further resizing may be chargeable unless the issue is caused by our failure to use reasonable care and skill.

7. Stone Setting, Tightening and Replacement

Stone setting, tightening, replacement, unsetting and resetting may carry risk.

Stones may have chips, cracks, inclusions, previous damage, treatments, tension, poor cutting, worn seats or hidden weaknesses.

Some stones are more fragile than others, including but not limited to emeralds, opals, pearls, turquoise, tanzanite, peridot, old-cut stones, included stones, foil-backed stones and treated stones.

We will take reasonable care, but we are not responsible for stone damage caused by pre-existing weakness, hidden defects, fragility, prior damage or risks reasonably associated with the work, unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

If a stone needs replacing, replacement stones may not be an exact match in colour, cut, clarity, size, tone, age, origin or appearance unless expressly agreed in writing.

8. Cleaning, Polishing, Plating and Finishing

Cleaning, polishing, rhodium plating, re-finishing, satin finishing, matte finishing, sandblasting, texturing and other surface work may alter the appearance of an item.

Polishing may reduce surface scratches but can also soften detail, edges, engraving, hallmarks, patina, plating, texture and antique character.

Cleaning may reveal wear, damage, repairs, cracks, colour differences, plating loss or stone issues that were hidden by dirt, tarnish or previous surface condition.

Plating, rhodium plating and special finishes wear over time and may need repeating.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise, we do not guarantee that a finish, plating or polish will remain unchanged for any particular period, as this depends on wear, use, skin chemistry, chemicals, cleaning products, storage and maintenance.

9. Engraving

You are responsible for checking all engraving details before approval.

This includes wording, initials, names, dates, spelling, punctuation, symbols, fonts, placement and style.

We are not responsible for engraving errors that match the information approved or supplied by you.

Engraving may not be removable and may affect the item’s appearance, resale value, structure or ability to be returned.

10. Watches

Where we agree to inspect, test, arrange repair, arrange service, replace batteries, adjust bracelets, open cases, replace straps, pressure test, polish or otherwise work on watches, the work may be carried out by us or by a third-party watchmaker or specialist.

Vintage and pre-owned watches may have hidden movement wear, previous repairs, corrosion, moisture damage, worn parts, non-original parts, weak seals, damaged crowns, worn pushers, brittle components or issues not apparent until inspection or opening.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing:

  • battery replacement does not mean a watch is serviced or water-resistant;

  • bracelet adjustment does not mean the bracelet, clasp or links are free from wear;

  • pressure testing is a snapshot at the time of testing and not a permanent guarantee;

  • opening a watch may reveal further work is required;

  • parts availability is not guaranteed, especially for vintage watches.

We are not responsible for loss arising from pre-existing watch defects, hidden movement issues, water ingress, worn parts, lack of service history, third-party parts availability or inherent risks of watch work, unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

11. Third-Party Workshops and Specialists

We may use third-party workshops, setters, polishers, engravers, watchmakers, assay offices, laboratories, couriers, refiners or other specialists to carry out or assist with work.

You authorise us to send items to appropriate third parties where we consider this reasonably necessary.

We are not responsible for delays caused by third-party workshops, parts suppliers, assay offices, laboratories, couriers or other external parties, unless the law provides otherwise.

We remain responsible for exercising reasonable care in selecting and instructing third parties.

12. Hallmarking and Assay

Some repair, alteration or remodelling work may require hallmarking or submission to an assay office.

Hallmarking may add time and cost.

We are not responsible for assay office delays, requirements or lawful decisions.

If an item fails assay due to metal purity, mixed metal, plating, solder, contamination, customer-supplied metal or previous alteration, further work, cost or delay may be required.

13. Customer-Supplied Materials, Stones and Parts

Where you provide stones, metal, watch parts, straps, findings, clasps, chains, components or other materials, you do so at your own risk.

Customer-supplied materials may have unknown quality, composition, durability, treatments, origin, compatibility or hidden defects.

We may refuse to use customer-supplied materials if we consider them unsuitable or too risky.

We are not responsible for failure, damage, incompatibility, poor fit, poor performance or loss arising from customer-supplied materials unless caused by our failure to use reasonable care and skill.

14. Items Left With Us

When you leave an item with us, we may provide a receipt, job sheet, repair envelope, email confirmation, photograph or other acknowledgement.

You should check that the description of the item and requested work is accurate and tell us promptly if anything is incorrect.

We will take reasonable care of items while they are in our possession.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise, our responsibility for items left with us is limited to their reasonable second-hand replacement value, not sentimental value, insurance value, new replacement value, or any special value to you.

15. Insurance and High-Value Items

You must tell us before leaving an item with us if you believe it has a high value, unusual value, sentimental importance, rare provenance, special insurance requirement or any particular handling requirement.

We may refuse to accept an item, require additional documentation, agree a specific declared value, require specialist insurance, or impose specific handling requirements.

If you do not tell us about special value or requirements before leaving the item with us, we may not be able to take them into account.

16. Completion and Collection

We will notify you when work is complete or when an item is ready for collection.

You must collect the item and pay any balance due within a reasonable time.

We may refuse to release an item until all sums due have been paid in cleared funds and any checks we consider necessary have been completed.

You should inspect the item on collection or promptly after delivery and tell us as soon as possible if you believe there is an issue.

17. Uncollected Items

If you do not collect an item within a reasonable time after we notify you that it is ready, we may contact you using the details you provided.

If the item remains uncollected, we may charge reasonable storage, insurance and administration fees.

After giving reasonable notice, we may take lawful steps to recover our costs, return the item, store the item, sell the item, dispose of the item, or otherwise deal with it in accordance with the law.

Any sale or disposal of uncollected items will be handled in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

18. Warranty on Repair Work

Repair, resizing and alteration work may be covered by a limited workmanship warranty where expressly stated by us.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise, any warranty on repair work covers only the specific work carried out by us and does not cover the whole item.

For example, if we resize a ring, the warranty applies to the resizing work, not to all stones, claws, settings, previous repairs or unrelated parts of the ring.

Warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, misuse, neglect, impact, chemical exposure, water exposure, third-party work, failure to maintain, pre-existing faults, hidden defects, customer-supplied materials or issues unrelated to the work carried out.

This does not affect your statutory rights.

19. Problems After Repair

If you believe there is a problem with work carried out by us, you must contact us promptly and give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect the item.

You must not arrange third-party repair, adjustment, alteration, polishing, cleaning, opening, servicing or testing before giving us a reasonable opportunity to inspect the item.

Third-party work may affect your warranty and any remedy available from us.

Where we are responsible for a fault in our workmanship, we will deal with the matter in accordance with your statutory rights and any applicable warranty.

20. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability in connection with repair, resizing, alteration or related work shall be limited to the price paid for the relevant work or, where legally required, the reasonable second-hand value of the item at the time it was left with us.

We are not liable for sentimental value, loss of opportunity, loss of use, event costs, wedding or proposal disruption, third-party costs, market movement, indirect loss, consequential loss, or losses caused by pre-existing faults, inherent fragility, hidden defects, customer-supplied materials, third-party work or failure to follow care instructions.

Warranty Policy

1. Scope of this Section

This section sets out the warranty terms that may apply to goods and services supplied by The Hamilton Gold Company group.

Different warranty terms may apply depending on the type of item or service supplied, including new jewellery, bespoke jewellery, vintage and pre-owned jewellery, watches, bullion, repairs, resizing, alterations and other services.

Any warranty offered by us is in addition to, and does not replace, your statutory rights.

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

2. Statutory Rights

As a consumer, you may have statutory rights where goods are faulty, misdescribed, not fit for purpose, or services are not carried out with reasonable care and skill.

Our warranty is a separate promise from us. It does not remove, reduce or replace any statutory rights you may have.

3. Jewellery Manufacturing Warranty

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, new jewellery and bespoke jewellery supplied by us are covered by a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects from the date of collection or delivery.

A manufacturing defect means a fault caused by the way the item was made, assembled, cast, set, soldered, finished or supplied, rather than damage caused by wear, use, accident, misuse, age, lack of maintenance or external factors.

If we determine that an item has a manufacturing defect covered by this warranty, we may, at our discretion and depending on the circumstances:

  • repair the item;

  • replace the item;

  • replace the affected component;

  • remake the item;

  • offer a suitable alternative;

  • provide another remedy required by law.

Where an item is no longer available or cannot reasonably be repaired or replaced, we may offer an appropriate alternative remedy.

4. Bespoke Jewellery Warranty

Bespoke jewellery is covered by the jewellery manufacturing warranty above, unless expressly stated otherwise in writing.

However, the warranty does not cover issues caused by:

  • customer-approved design choices;

  • customer-approved dimensions, proportions, stone choices, metal choices, finish, engraving or ring size;

  • customer-supplied stones;

  • customer-supplied metal;

  • natural variation in gemstones or handmade work;

  • changes requested by you after approval;

  • wear and tear;

  • failure to follow care instructions;

  • use of the item in a way unsuitable for its design.

Bespoke jewellery may involve delicate settings, special finishes, unusual designs, fine details, customer-supplied materials or natural stones. These may require particular care and may not be suitable for all types of wear.

5. Vintage, Pre-Owned and Second-Hand Jewellery Warranty

Vintage, antique, pre-owned and second-hand jewellery is not new and may show age-related wear, previous repair, alteration, restoration, polishing, patina, stone wear, worn settings or other characteristics consistent with its age and history.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, vintage, pre-owned and second-hand jewellery is not covered by the two-year jewellery manufacturing warranty.

Any warranty offered on a vintage, pre-owned or second-hand item will be limited to the specific warranty confirmed in writing at the time of sale.

Where no specific warranty is stated, we will still deal with any issue in accordance with your statutory rights, but age-related wear, disclosed condition issues, reasonably apparent faults, previous repairs, normal maintenance requirements and characteristics consistent with the item’s age, price and description are not normally treated as warranty faults.

6. Watch Warranty

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, vintage and pre-owned watches are not covered by the two-year jewellery manufacturing warranty.

Any warranty offered on a watch will be limited to the specific warranty confirmed in writing at the time of sale.

Where a watch warranty is provided, it will usually cover only the functioning of the movement under normal use during the stated warranty period, subject to the exclusions in this section and any item-specific exclusions confirmed at the time of sale.

A watch warranty does not mean that the watch is new, fully serviced, waterproof, water-resistant, guaranteed accurate to modern standards, free from internal wear, or suitable for all forms of daily use.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, watch warranty does not cover:

  • water ingress;

  • moisture damage;

  • accidental damage;

  • shock or drop damage;

  • magnetisation;

  • overwinding;

  • incorrect date-setting;

  • crown, stem, pusher or seal damage;

  • bracelet, strap, clasp or link wear;

  • battery depletion;

  • cosmetic wear;

  • loss of accuracy within reasonable vintage or pre-owned tolerances;

  • service requirements;

  • parts becoming unavailable;

  • third-party opening, repair, adjustment, polishing or servicing;

  • misuse, neglect or failure to follow care instructions.

7. Bullion Warranty

Bullion, precious metals, bullion coins, bullion bars and similar products are not covered by the jewellery manufacturing warranty.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, our bullion warranty is limited to supplying the correct product as described and taking reasonable care to ensure authenticity.

Bullion is sold primarily for precious metal content and may show minor marks, scratches, toning, tarnish, milk spots, handling marks, packaging marks or other characteristics consistent with bullion-grade products.

Bullion warranty does not cover:

  • market movement;

  • investment performance;

  • resale value;

  • buy-back price;

  • change in spot price;

  • minor bullion-grade marks or imperfections;

  • tax consequences;

  • customer change of mind.

8. Repairs, Resizing and Alterations Warranty

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, repair, resizing and alteration work is covered only in respect of the specific work carried out by us.

For example:

  • if we resize a ring, the warranty applies to the resizing work, not to every stone, claw, setting, previous repair or unrelated part of the ring;

  • if we replace a clasp, the warranty applies to the replacement clasp and fitting work, not to the entire chain;

  • if we tighten a stone, the warranty applies to the work carried out, not to future wear, impact, worn settings or unrelated stone loss;

  • if we replace a watch battery, the warranty applies to the battery replacement work, not to the whole movement, seals, water resistance or future functioning of the watch.

Repair warranties do not cover pre-existing faults, hidden defects, inherent fragility, age-related wear, customer-supplied materials, third-party work, normal wear and tear, misuse, accidental damage, lack of maintenance or issues unrelated to the work carried out.

9. What Our Warranty Does Not Cover

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, our warranty does not cover:

  • normal wear and tear;

  • age-related wear;

  • accidental damage;

  • misuse;

  • neglect;

  • loss or theft;

  • sentimental value;

  • failure to follow care instructions;

  • impact damage;

  • pressure damage;

  • bending, crushing or distortion;

  • scratches, dents, knocks, chips or abrasions;

  • chemical damage;

  • exposure to perfume, cosmetics, cleaning products, chlorine, bleach, alcohol gel, acids or other chemicals;

  • swimming, bathing, showering, hot tubs, saunas or water exposure;

  • damage caused by sport, gym use, manual work, gardening, DIY, childcare, sleeping or heavy wear;

  • stone loss caused by impact, worn claws, worn settings, poor maintenance or accidental damage;

  • loose stones caused by wear, impact or lack of maintenance;

  • worn claws, settings, clasps, hinges, chains, bracelets, links or catches;

  • plating, rhodium plating or special finishes wearing over time;

  • tarnishing, patina or discolouration caused by wear, storage, skin chemistry or environment;

  • changes in finger size or fit preference;

  • damage caused by resizing, repair, polishing, cleaning, opening, servicing or alteration by a third party;

  • customer-supplied stones, metal, parts or materials;

  • pre-existing faults or hidden defects in items supplied by you;

  • failure to maintain the item properly;

  • defects or damage caused after collection or delivery.

10. Stone Loss

Stone loss is not automatically treated as a manufacturing defect.

Stones can become loose or fall out due to impact, worn claws, worn settings, accidental knocks, bending, twisting, pressure, catching, chemical exposure, age-related wear, lack of maintenance or normal use.

Where a stone is lost, we will assess the item to determine, where reasonably possible, whether the loss appears to have been caused by a manufacturing defect or by wear, damage, impact, maintenance issues or another cause.

Unless we determine that stone loss was caused by a manufacturing defect covered by warranty, replacement stones and associated repair work may be chargeable.

11. Claws, Settings and Maintenance

Claws, settings, clasps, hinges, chains, bracelets, watch straps, seals and other working parts can wear over time and may require maintenance.

It is your responsibility to have jewellery and watches checked and maintained appropriately.

We recommend regular inspection of stone settings, claws and clasps, especially for rings and items worn frequently.

Failure to maintain an item may result in stone loss, breakage, chain failure, clasp failure, water ingress or other damage that is not covered by warranty.

12. Special Finishes and Plating

Special finishes, including matte, satin, sandblast, textured, brushed, oxidised, blackened, rhodium-plated, gold-plated or other plated finishes, may wear, polish, fade or change appearance over time.

This is normal and is not usually a manufacturing defect.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, our warranty does not cover the cost of restoring, re-plating or reapplying special finishes where wear is caused by normal use.

13. Natural Materials and Handmade Variation

Natural gemstones, diamonds, pearls, opals, emeralds, sapphires, rubies, coloured stones, antique stones and handmade jewellery may show natural or individual characteristics.

This may include inclusions, colour zoning, surface-reaching inclusions, variation in tone, old cuts, asymmetry, growth marks, texture, graining, slight irregularities, tool marks, handmade variation and other natural or craft characteristics.

These characteristics are not normally defects.

14. Customer-Supplied Stones, Metal and Materials

Where you supply stones, metal, watch parts, jewellery components or other materials, they are supplied at your risk.

Customer-supplied materials may have hidden defects, treatments, contamination, brittleness, fractures, previous damage, unknown composition or inherent fragility.

Unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill, warranty does not cover failure, damage or issues caused by customer-supplied stones, metal, parts or materials.

15. Third-Party Work

Any repair, resizing, polishing, cleaning, opening, servicing, engraving, stone setting, alteration, testing or other work carried out by a third party may void or affect any warranty.

If you believe there is a problem with an item supplied or worked on by us, you must contact us promptly and give us a reasonable opportunity to inspect it before arranging third-party work.

We are not responsible for damage, loss, altered condition, missing parts, changed components or evidential issues caused by third-party work.

16. Making a Warranty Claim

If you believe an item has a fault covered by warranty, you must contact us as soon as reasonably possible.

You should provide:

  • your name and contact details;

  • proof of purchase;

  • item details;

  • a description of the issue;

  • photographs or videos where helpful;

  • any relevant information about when and how the issue occurred.

We may require the item to be returned to us or made available for inspection before deciding whether the issue is covered by warranty.

You must not continue wearing or using an item where doing so may worsen the issue.

17. Inspection and Assessment

We will inspect the item and assess whether the issue appears to be covered by warranty.

We may need to consult a workshop, jeweller, setter, watchmaker, assay office, gemstone specialist, laboratory or other third party.

The outcome of our assessment will depend on the nature of the item, its age, condition, use, maintenance history, the fault reported, and any signs of wear, impact, misuse, third-party work or external damage.

If we determine that the issue is not covered by warranty, we may offer repair or replacement services at cost where available.

18. Remedies Under Warranty

Where an issue is covered by warranty, we will decide the appropriate remedy, taking into account the item, fault, cost, availability of parts or stones, age, condition and practicality.

The remedy may include:

  • repair;

  • replacement of a component;

  • resetting a stone;

  • re-polishing or finishing where appropriate;

  • replacement with a similar item;

  • remake;

  • refund where required by law or where we consider it appropriate.

We are not obliged to provide a remedy that is impossible, disproportionate or inappropriate in the circumstances, unless the law requires otherwise.

19. Postage, Delivery and Insurance for Warranty Claims

Where you need to send an item to us for warranty inspection, you must follow our return instructions.

High-value items must be sent using a tracked, insured and signed-for service suitable for the value and nature of the item.

Unless the law requires otherwise or we agree otherwise, you are responsible for the item until it is safely received by us.

If the issue is covered by warranty, we will deal with reasonable return arrangements in accordance with your statutory rights and any warranty terms confirmed at the time of sale.

20. Warranty Period

Any warranty period starts from the date the item is collected or delivered, unless expressly stated otherwise in writing.

A repair or replacement under warranty does not restart the original warranty period unless we expressly agree otherwise in writing or the law requires otherwise.

21. Transfer of Warranty

Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing, warranties are provided only to the original purchaser and are not transferable.

If an item is gifted, resold or transferred to another person, any warranty may no longer apply, although statutory rights may still apply where the law provides.

22. Limitation of Liability

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability under any warranty shall be limited to the price paid for the relevant item or service.

We are not liable for sentimental value, loss of opportunity, loss of use, event costs, wedding or proposal disruption, third-party costs, market movement, loss of investment value, indirect loss, consequential loss, or losses caused by misuse, accidental damage, third-party work, failure to maintain the item or failure to follow care instructions.

Valuations, Appraisals and Reports

1. Scope of this Section

This section applies to any valuation, appraisal, estimate, certificate, report, opinion, assessment or similar service provided by The Hamilton Gold Company group.

This includes, but is not limited to:

  • insurance valuations;

  • probate valuations;

  • estate valuations;

  • general second-hand valuations;

  • jewellery valuations;

  • watch valuations;

  • gemstone assessments;

  • precious metal assessments;

  • verbal estimates;

  • written reports;

  • condition reports;

  • informal opinions of value.

This section applies whether the valuation, estimate or opinion is provided in store, at an appointment, by email, by WhatsApp, by telephone, online, from photographs, from documents, or following physical inspection.

2. Valuations are Professional Opinions

All valuations, appraisals, estimates and reports provided by us are professional opinions given in good faith.

They are based on the information available to us, the item inspected, the extent of the inspection carried out, market conditions at the relevant date, and the stated purpose of the valuation.

A valuation is not a guarantee of sale price, purchase price, auction result, insurance settlement, future value, investment performance, resale value, scrap value, trade value or buy-back price.

Different valuers, dealers, insurers, auction houses, jewellers, watchmakers, gemstone specialists, buyers or markets may reasonably reach different opinions of value.

3. Purpose of Valuation

A valuation may only be relied upon for the specific purpose stated in the valuation document or agreed by us in writing.

Unless expressly stated otherwise:

  • an insurance valuation is prepared for insurance replacement purposes only;

  • a probate valuation is prepared for probate or estate purposes only;

  • a general second-hand valuation is prepared as an indicative opinion of second-hand value only;

  • a verbal estimate is informal guidance only and should not be relied upon as a formal valuation;

  • an estimate based on photographs, messages or documents alone is provisional and subject to physical inspection.

A valuation prepared for one purpose should not be used for another purpose.

For example, an insurance valuation should not be treated as a resale value, probate value, auction estimate, dealer purchase price, trade value, scrap value, buy-back price or offer to purchase.

4. Insurance Valuations

Insurance valuations are prepared for insurance replacement purposes only.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, an insurance valuation is prepared on a New Replacement Value, retail replacement or reinstatement basis. This means it reflects our professional opinion of the likely cost of replacing the item with a comparable new, like-for-like, equivalent or nearest reasonably available item in the relevant retail market at the date of valuation.

An insurance valuation is not an estimate of what the item would sell for second-hand, at auction, to a dealer, to The Hamilton Gold Company, through a private sale, or in a probate or estate context.

Insurance valuations should be reviewed regularly because values, replacement costs, metal prices, gemstone prices, exchange rates, labour costs, availability and market conditions may change.

5. Probate and Estate Valuations

Probate and estate valuations are prepared for probate, estate administration or related purposes only.

Unless expressly stated otherwise in the valuation document, a probate valuation is not an insurance replacement valuation, retail replacement valuation, auction reserve, guaranteed sale price, dealer purchase price, scrap value, buy-back price or offer to purchase.

Probate and estate valuations reflect our professional opinion of value based on the relevant valuation date, the item’s condition, the information available, the appropriate valuation basis, and relevant market conditions.

Where a specific date of death or valuation date is required, you must provide that date to us before the valuation is prepared.

6. General Second-Hand Valuations

General second-hand valuations are indicative opinions of second-hand value only.

They may take into account factors including condition, age, metal content, gemstone content, brand, desirability, comparable sales, auction evidence, dealer demand, trade values, resale costs, market conditions and commercial risk.

A general second-hand valuation is not a guarantee that the item can be sold for that amount.

It is not an offer by us to buy the item unless we expressly state in writing that we are making a purchase offer.

7. Verbal Estimates and Informal Opinions

Any verbal estimate, informal opinion, rough indication, photograph-based estimate, message-based estimate or initial guide price is provided for general guidance only.

It should not be relied upon as a formal valuation, insurance valuation, probate valuation, written report, tax valuation or expert certificate.

Informal estimates may change following physical inspection, testing, weighing, research, market movement, third-party opinion or further information.

8. Inspection Limitations

Unless expressly stated otherwise, valuations are based on a non-destructive visual and practical inspection of the item.

Gemstones are usually assessed while mounted and are not removed from their settings. As a result, gemstone identity, measurements, carat weights, colour, clarity, cut, treatment, origin, natural or synthetic status and condition may be approximate.

Metal testing, hallmark assessment, watch assessment, gemstone testing and other checks may be limited by the construction, setting, condition, accessibility or nature of the item.

We do not guarantee matters that cannot reasonably be confirmed without destructive testing, laboratory testing, specialist third-party testing, stone removal, movement disassembly, case opening, assay, X-ray, advanced spectroscopy or other specialist investigation, unless such testing is expressly agreed and carried out.

9. Gemstones and Diamonds

Unless supported by a recognised laboratory certificate or expressly stated otherwise, gemstone and diamond details are our opinion only and may be approximate.

This includes identity, measurements, carat weight, colour, clarity, cut, treatment, origin, natural or synthetic status, fluorescence, inclusions, condition and value.

Where gemstones are mounted, parts of the stone may be hidden by claws, bezels, settings, dirt, wear, damage or the design of the item.

We are not responsible for differences later identified by stone removal, laboratory testing, recutting, repolishing, specialist testing or destructive testing unless we have failed to use reasonable care and skill.

10. Watches

Unless expressly stated otherwise, watch valuations and assessments are based on external inspection and any limited testing we consider appropriate.

A watch valuation or assessment does not guarantee that a watch is waterproof, water-resistant, fully original, recently serviced, free from internal defects, accurate to modern standards, or free from replacement parts unless expressly stated in writing.

Assessments of originality, age, model, reference, service history, movement condition, timekeeping, polishing, replacement parts, dial condition, bracelet condition, box, papers and provenance are based on the information reasonably available to us and may involve opinion or approximation.

Opening a watch, inspecting the movement or obtaining a specialist watchmaker’s report may involve additional cost and may still not reveal every issue.

11. Precious Metals and Hallmarks

Metal descriptions may be based on hallmarks, visual inspection, XRF testing, acid testing, electronic testing, experience or other methods we consider appropriate.

Hallmarks may be worn, absent, altered, foreign, historic, incomplete, obscured or inconsistent with later repairs or additions.

Items may contain solder, mixed metals, plating, filled sections, non-precious components, steel springs, watch movements, glass, enamel, stones, pearls, resin or other materials.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, weights may include stones, settings, movements, non-precious components or other materials.

12. Information Provided by You

We may rely on information provided by you or by third parties.

This may include purchase receipts, certificates, laboratory reports, service papers, boxes, provenance, family history, previous valuations, photographs, correspondence, auction records, insurance documents or other materials.

You are responsible for ensuring that any information you provide is accurate, complete and not misleading.

We are not responsible for errors or omissions caused by inaccurate, incomplete, misleading or withheld information provided to us.

13. Third-Party Information and Specialists

We may rely on or refer to information from third-party specialists, auction houses, laboratories, watchmakers, manufacturers, dealers, databases, published sources, market data or other sources where we consider this appropriate.

We may consult third parties to assist with assessment, identification, authentication, market comparison or valuation.

Third-party opinions, reports, certificates and data may themselves contain limitations, assumptions, errors or changes in opinion over time.

14. Market Movement and Valuation Date

Valuations are based on market conditions at the relevant valuation date.

Markets for precious metals, gemstones, watches, jewellery, antiques, collectables, coins, medals and second-hand goods can change.

A valuation may become outdated due to changes in metal prices, gemstone prices, exchange rates, retail replacement costs, fashion, demand, availability, condition, market sentiment, auction results, tax rules, legal rules or other factors.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, a valuation is not a continuing statement of value after the valuation date.

15. Condition Changes After Valuation

A valuation is based on the item’s condition at the time it is inspected or, where relevant, at the valuation date stated.

If the item is later damaged, repaired, altered, resized, polished, cleaned, serviced, opened, restored, worn, lost, stolen, dismantled, stone-set, stone-unset or otherwise changed, the valuation may no longer be accurate.

We are not responsible for loss arising from changes in condition after the valuation has been prepared.

16. No Obligation to Buy, Sell or Broker

A valuation, appraisal, estimate or report is not an offer by us to buy the item and does not oblige us to buy, sell, broker, consign, auction, store or arrange sale of the item.

If we make a purchase offer, that offer is separate from the valuation and may be lower or higher than the valuation depending on the basis of value, market conditions, resale costs, refining costs, testing, commercial risk, margin, stock requirements and other factors.

17. Third-Party Reliance

Unless expressly agreed in writing, valuations, appraisals, estimates and reports are prepared for the named client only.

They may not be relied upon by any third party without our prior written consent.

We accept no responsibility to any third party who relies on a valuation, appraisal, estimate or report without our written consent, except where liability cannot legally be excluded.

If a valuation is required for an insurer, solicitor, executor, beneficiary, court, accountant, tax adviser, lender or other third party, you must tell us before the valuation is prepared so that the correct purpose, valuation basis and addressee can be considered.

18. Use of Valuation Documents

You must not alter, edit, copy, misquote, partially reproduce, remove pages from, remove disclaimers from, or use extracts from a valuation, appraisal or report in a way that is misleading.

A valuation document should be used only as a complete document and only for its stated purpose.

We may withdraw or amend a valuation if we become aware of a material error, new information, inaccurate information supplied to us, or a change in circumstances affecting the basis of the valuation.

19. Fees

Valuation fees, appraisal fees and report fees are payable as agreed.

Unless expressly agreed otherwise, fees are payable for the valuation service and professional time involved, not for achieving a particular value.

A valuation fee is not refundable simply because you disagree with the valuation figure, another party gives a different opinion, or the valuation is lower or higher than expected.

20. Liability

We will provide valuation services with reasonable care and skill.

Nothing in this section excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to the above, valuations, appraisals, estimates and reports are provided only for the stated purpose and on the stated basis.

We are not liable for losses arising from:

  • use of a valuation for the wrong purpose;

  • reliance by unauthorised third parties;

  • market movement after the valuation date;

  • changes in condition after inspection;

  • inaccurate, incomplete or misleading information supplied to us;

  • limitations of mounted-stone inspection;

  • limitations of non-destructive inspection;

  • matters requiring laboratory testing, destructive testing, stone removal, watch disassembly, case opening, assay or specialist testing not expressly agreed and carried out;

  • differences of professional opinion;

  • sale, insurance, tax, probate or legal outcomes outside our control.

Where legally permitted, our liability in connection with a valuation, appraisal, estimate or report shall be limited to the fee paid for that valuation service.

bottom of page