This checklist is designed for jewelers, watchmakers, and workshop teams who need a repeatable visual workflow before repair, after repair, or before delivery to the client.

For setup context, review the jewelry use case and compare stand options on the accessories page.

1. Condition review at intake

Before any work starts, capture the overall condition of the piece and note:

  • Existing scratches or dents
  • Worn edges
  • Loose or visibly damaged settings
  • Previous repair marks
  • Dirt or residue that could hide surface condition

This first step reduces misunderstandings later and gives you a clean baseline.

2. Hallmarks and inscriptions

Inspect:

  • Hallmarks and purity marks
  • Maker’s marks
  • Serial numbers or internal engravings
  • Signs of wear that make reading uncertain

Take a clear image if the piece will be sold, repaired, or kept in your records.

Sample microscope view of a hallmark or engraved identifier on jewelry
Example of the kind of hallmark or identifier image worth capturing at intake or before sale. Click to enlarge.

3. Stone seating and prongs

Check for:

  • Bent, worn, or uneven prongs
  • Chips near girdles or contact points
  • Poor stone seating
  • Movement or looseness
  • Residue hiding cracks or seating issues

Do not rely on one angle only. Rotate the piece and compare reflections before drawing conclusions.

4. Surface finish and repair quality

After polishing or repair, verify:

  • Surface uniformity
  • Tool marks
  • Heat discoloration
  • Incomplete polishing near edges or settings
  • Solder areas that remain visible or irregular

5. Watchmaking details

If the item is a watch or component, inspect:

  • Case wear and scratches
  • Engravings and identifiers
  • Screw heads and visible wear
  • Debris in visible mechanical areas
  • Signs of previous handling damage

6. Final image documentation

Before returning the piece or approving it for sale, capture:

  • One overall image
  • One or two defect-specific images when relevant
  • One image of marks or identifiers if they matter to the transaction

This step becomes much easier when the microscope, stand, and software are part of the same workflow.

Sample jewelry microscope image showing a surface edge and setting detail
Sample close-up for documenting edges, settings, and finishing quality in the same workflow. Click to enlarge.

Quick rule for daily use

If you need a simple operating rule, use this one: inspect, rotate, confirm, and document. Many jewelry defects only become clear after changing the angle and reducing reflections.

If you need help matching Smart G-Scope to your bench routine, use the contact page and describe the types of items you inspect most often.