Market
Provenance documentation requests are becoming the norm, not the exception
Buyers are increasingly asking for chain-of-custody paperwork alongside the grading report, not just for large stones but for everyday purchases as well.
Imperial Star Gems trade desk1 min read
Requests for chain-of-custody paperwork alongside the grading report are no longer limited to large or unusual stones — they are becoming routine on everyday purchases.
- A grading report describes the stone; it does not on its own show where the rough was mined or cut, which is a separate question buyers are now asking more often.
- The shift has been driven partly by retail jewellers marketing traceability as a feature, and partly by buyers who simply want a fuller paper trail before paying.
- Supplying this adds a step to the sale but rarely changes the price — it has mostly changed what buyers expect to receive alongside the certificate.
We provide origin and chain-of-custody documentation with every stone as standard, whether or not it is asked for. If you are comparing us to another supplier, ask what provenance paperwork they include before comparing price alone — contact us for a sample of what comes with each stone.
Market commentary drawn from publicly available market data and trade reporting, not investment advice. Prices move; figures are indicative and correct as of the date above.