What to photograph on every gold piece

An inventory photograph has one job: help you identify the exact piece later. Place one item on a plain surface in soft light, then make the record useful.

The essential photographs

• The complete piece, with nothing hidden or cut off.
• The reverse side, including the back of a pendant.
• Every visible hallmark or marking, close enough to read.
• The clasp or fastening, where practical.
• Distinctive details, such as engraving, a repaired link or an existing scratch.
• The matching invoice, with relevant details in focus.

For earrings, include both pieces in one photograph. For bangles, take a group photo and individual photos. Keep the original image: heavy filters can make matching less reliable.

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