Expert Witness Services
Expert witness reports and statements for probate disputes, divorce financial remedy proceedings, and insurance matters — prepared to the standard required by the Civil Procedure Rules.
Expert Witness
In civil litigation, an expert witness is appointed to provide the court with independent specialist opinion that falls outside the ordinary competence of a judge or legal practitioner. Unlike a witness of fact, an expert's duty runs not to the instructing party but to the court itself.
In jewellery and horology disputes, an expert witness is called upon to establish the nature, quality, and value of items in contention — whether to determine a fair division of assets, assess an inheritance, or evaluate an insurance claim. The credibility of that opinion depends entirely on the independence and qualifications of the person providing it.
Gaynor Wright brings over thirty years of hands-on experience in the luxury jewellery sector to every instruction. As a Fellow of the Institute of Registered Valuers — the principal professional body for jewellery valuers in the United Kingdom — and a Fellow of the National Association of Jewellers, her qualifications meet the standard expected by the courts and relied upon by both sides of a dispute.
A valuation produced by a jeweller with a commercial interest in the outcome, or by a generalist without specialist credentials, will face challenge on cross-examination. Courts and legal practitioners require a valuer whose independence is demonstrable and whose methodology is sound.
Gaynor holds no retail affiliation, accepts no referral fees, and is instructed equally by claimants, defendants, and as single joint expert. Her reports are prepared without reference to who has retained her — and will withstand scrutiny accordingly.
All expert witness reports are prepared in compliance with CPR Part 35 and the accompanying Practice Direction, including the mandatory expert's declaration as to the overriding duty to the court.
Areas of Practice
Probate
Where the value of jewellery or watches forms part of a contested estate, an independent expert valuation provides the evidential basis for resolving disagreements between beneficiaries, executors, and HMRC.
Family Division
Jewellery and watches frequently appear as significant assets in financial remedy proceedings. Gaynor provides impartial valuations accepted by the Family Division and relied upon by both parties' legal teams.
Insurance
Insurance fraud investigations and disputed claims frequently require an independent specialist to assess authenticity, provenance, and accurate replacement value. Gaynor's reports provide the evidential foundation insurers and their legal teams require.
Qualifications & Standing
The IRV is the principal professional body for jewellery valuers in the United Kingdom. Fellowship — the highest grade of membership — is conferred on those who meet its rigorous standards of competence and conduct. Gaynor holds FIRV Ref 96916.
Fellowship of the NAJ is awarded in recognition of sustained contribution to the jewellery profession. Gaynor also serves as IRV Advisors representative on the NAJ Education and Training Group.
A specialist qualification from the Gemological Institute of America, covering the identification, grading, and valuation of natural, cultured, and imitation pearls to international standards.
Member of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, reflecting ongoing engagement with the science and practice of gemmology.
FIRV 96916 · DGA · FNAJ · GIA Pearl Graduate · PJ Gemology Diploma · BA(hons) Jewellery Design · CPAA
Prior to establishing GHW Valuations, Gaynor held a senior management position at Tiffany & Co., London — an environment that demands an uncompromising standard of knowledge, presentation, and professional conduct.
Over more than thirty years in the luxury jewellery sector, she has developed expertise spanning fine jewellery, coloured gemstones, pearls, and horological pieces from Georgian pocket watches to contemporary prestige wristwatches.
Her valuations are relied upon by solicitors, insurers, executors, and private clients throughout Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and South Lincolnshire. She is consistently fully booked, a reflection of the confidence professionals and private individuals place in her work.
Instruction & Process
Outline your case, the nature of the items, and the purpose of the valuation using the enquiry form. Gaynor will respond promptly to discuss scope, timing, and fees.
Gaynor attends with her full portable laboratory to examine and record items in person. Where items are held by a third party, arrangements can be made accordingly.
A full written report is prepared in compliance with CPR Part 35, including the expert's declaration. The report is clear, methodical, and structured for use in legal proceedings.
The completed report is delivered to the instructing solicitor. Gaynor is available to clarify any points, respond to questions from the opposing party, or attend as required.
Instructing Gaynor
If you are a solicitor, barrister, or legal professional seeking an independent jewellery expert for civil proceedings, Gaynor welcomes your enquiry. She accepts instruction from either party and as single joint expert.
To discuss whether she is the right expert for your case, please use the enquiry form. There is no charge for an initial discussion of scope and suitability.
To allow Gaynor to advise on scope and suitability, it helps to have the following information to hand — though none of it is required before making initial contact.
Initial enquiries are welcome from solicitors, legal professionals, and private clients. No commitment required.