Online retail marketplace eBay UK is now offering expert verification for fine pearl jewellery in collaboration with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

The company said it is expanding its Authenticity Guarantee service to pearl jewellery as demand for pearl jewellery soars. Citing eBay sales data, it said pearl sales were up 30 per cent in the first six months of 2024, driven by necklaces and earrings. 

EBay UK also witnessed a significant rise in related searches. Over the past six months, searches for pearl bracelets and pearl earrings rose 50 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively, while searches for pearl drop earrings and freshwater pearls recorded a triple-digit increase, reflecting the latest jewellery trends.  

With the expanded Authenticity Guarantee service, new and pre-loved pearl pieces that sell for £500 (around US$662) and over are now eligible to be independently verified in partnership with GIA. The new programme encompasses a range of pearl jewellery, including branded items from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co and Chopard as well as generic pieces.

Mari Corella, general manager of Luxury and Sneakers at eBay, remarked, “We have seen over 10 million items go through our Authenticity Guarantee service globally, and we know our customers trust and value the confidence that this service brings. With last year’s successful expansion into jewellery, opening Authenticity Guarantee to include pearls was a clear next step.”

Launched in 2021, eBay UK’s Authenticity Guarantee service has grown to include luxury goods such as watches, handbags, sneakers and most recently, fine jewellery.