Frequently Asked Questions

About the service

Authenticated by Aureon is an independent certification body dedicated exclusively to hermès. Each item is examined using our proprietary 72 point methodology and reviewed by four Hermès specialists. A certificate is issued  only when all four experts reach agreement. Every certificate is backed by a Lifetime Financial Guarantee and each certificate includes a formal market valuation.

Certificates are issued only through controlled channels. This includes existing private clients, approved corporate partners and professionals acting on behalf of clients in contexts such as inheritance, insurance or legal proceedings. Authenticated by Aureon does not accept unsolicited submissions from the general public.

To provide a secure and defensible standard for Hermès authentication that meets the expectations of collectors, insurers, auction houses, legal professionals and wealth advisors. The service replaces informal opinion with a formal, documented process.

Yes. Any Hermès item processed through our system, whether new, vintage or pre owned, is subject to the same authentication protocol and documentation standards.

The Authentication Process

Each item is physically examined in person by an in house Authenticated by Aureon specialist using our proprietary 72 point inspection protocol. It is then reviewed by a second internal expert. The results are independently assessed by two external Hermès specialists. A certificate is issued only when all four experts independently confirm authenticity.

No. Items must be examined physically within our controlled environment. We do not offer remote, digital or image based authentication.

No. Authenticated by Aureon does not use ai or automated image based systems. Our 72 point process requires direct in person examination. In our professional opinion, no current technology can replace physical handling when assessing materials, construction and critical indicators of authenticity.

A certificate will not be issued unless all four experts independently confirm authenticity.

Standard turnaround is five to seven working days once the item is received. Complex or high risk cases may require additional time for external review.

The Certificate and Guarantee

Each certificate includes the item’s key identifiers, date of certification, internal reference number and a unique QR code linked to our secure archive. A physical and digital version is provided.

No. The authentication certificate confirms authenticity only. The valuation is provided as a separate document on headed paper and can be used for insurance or legal purposes if required.

Our valuation reflects the current market replacement value at the time the item is assessed. It is based on condition, rarity, demand, comparable sales and relevant market data across key regions. Market conditions change over time and values for Hermès pieces can fluctuate. The valuation provided is not a prediction of future worth and Authenticated by Aureon cannot be held responsible for any increase or decrease in value after the date of assessment.

There is no guarantee that your insurer will pay the full valuation amount as this depends on your individual policy terms and coverage levels.
 Our valuation reflects the market replacement value at the time of assessment but insurance payouts are determined by your insurer’s own criteria, limits and conditions.

Yes. We can provide an updated valuation if required but the bag must be seen in person again so we can confirm its condition, current market position and any changes since the original assessment.

No. We do not provide a valuation service without full authentication unless the client is a member of Aureon Collector.

Yes. Each authenticated bag includes a discreet ABA asset protection tag placed inside the interior pocket. The tag is provided as standard and remains inactive when supplied. It may be enabled privately by the owner using their own smartphone. Activation is optional and fully controlled by the client. Authenticated by Aureon does not access view or retain any tracking data at any point.

The ABA asset protection tag links only to the owner’s device when they choose to activate it. Activation takes place entirely within the phone’s own native tracking system and no registration connection or data link is ever created with Authenticated by Aureon . We do not collect, process or store location data. We have no technical ability or legal basis to access your device your account or any tracking information.

Bag theft and residential burglary are increasing globally, particularly in the UK and Europe. The ABA asset protection tag provides an additional layer of reassurance in this climate. It can alert owners if a bag is moved unexpectedly, for example when left in a hotel room, at an event or in storage. It may support recovery efforts if the item is lost or stolen. Although not a guarantee of recovery it offers clients a discreet and practical safety net for bags that matter.

Yes. The authentication certificate and accompanying valuation document are designed to meet the requirements of insurers, legal advisors and other professionals who need formal evidence of authenticity and value. Acceptance may depend on the specific insurer or representative involved.

Authenticated by Aureon stands behind every certificate we issue. If an item is formally disputed and written confirmation from Hermès is provided this initiates a claim under our lifetime guarantee. The item must be returned to us for further review to ensure it matches our original file. No claim will be paid until this review is complete.

Yes. A certificate may be revoked if the item is altered, misrepresented or tampered with following authentication or if any action is taken that compromises the integrity of the process.

Access and Eligibility

No. Items must be submitted through our private client channels or approved professional partners. We do not provide authentication as a general public service.

No. We do not provide informal opinions or single expert evaluations. All assessments follow the full certification process.

Yes. In certain circumstances we can carry out authentication on site, typically when there are multiple bags to be examined. This is arranged on a case by case basis, subject to availability, location and security requirements. All items must still undergo the full authentication process, including internal review and external specialist assessment where required.

Verification, Confidentiality and Support

Yes. Each certificate includes a QR code linked to a secure digital record. Certificates can also be verified manually using the reference number.

Yes. We regularly work under non disclosure agreements and with clients who require confidentiality.

All records are encrypted and stored securely in our private authentication archive. Access is restricted to authorised personnel.

No. We do not share item or client information with third parties unless legally required to do so.

Case Studies

When trust breaks down, process must take over

Authenticated by Aureon is regularly engaged in high value disputes, fraud investigations, and authenticity challenges. In each of the following examples, our role extended beyond issuing a certificate. These case studies demonstrate how structured, independent authentication protects buyers, advisors, and the wider market.
Leather Types

Impartial, expert-issued authentication free from brand influence, using our proprietary 72-step verification process which is unmatched globally by any other related services.

Hardware

Every certificate includes a lifetime financial guarantee, protecting your purchase for as long as you own it and giving complete and total peace of mind.

Serials

A meticulous, multi-point inspection using advanced forensic methods checks every detail, ensuring your item meets the highest standards before certification is issued.

Global Recognition

Trusted worldwide by collectors, resellers, and professionals, our certification adds instant credibility, protection, and value in any market or transaction.

72-Step Authentication

Impartial, expert-issued authentication free from brand influence, using our proprietary 72-step verification process which is unmatched globally by any other related services.

Lifetime Guarantee

Every certificate includes a lifetime financial guarantee, protecting your purchase for as long as you own it and giving complete and total peace of mind.