Pre-Shipment QC Checklist
Use this 30-point checklist for every shipment. Check each item before approving final payment. Print it, take it to the factory or your inspection, and check boxes as you go.
Material Verification
- XRF test on 3+ random pieces from AQL sample
- Results match specified karat/purity within tolerance
- Readings taken away from solder joints (solder has different composition)
- No unexpected elements detected — contamination check
- Plating thickness verified if applicable
Visual Inspection (4x magnification)
- No visible porosity on prominent surfaces
- Plating uniform — no peeling, spotting, or color variation
- Polish consistent across all pieces in sample
- No visible solder marks on finished surfaces
- No scratches, dents, or tool marks on visible areas
Stone Setting Check
- Each stone tested with gentle lateral pressure — no movement
- Prongs uniform in height, spacing, and finish
- Prong tips smooth — no sharp edges that could snag clothing
- Stone quality matches specification (color grade, clarity grade)
- Stones free of visible chips, cracks, or abrasions
Function and Mechanism
- All clasps: smooth open/close, adequate spring tension
- Earring posts and backs: secure fit, adequate friction
- Hinges: smooth movement, no binding or looseness
- Chain links: uniform, no kinks or twisted sections
- Moving parts tested minimum 10 cycles each
Weight and Dimensions
- Weight within ±3% of specification (per piece)
- Dimensions within specified tolerance (length, width, thickness)
- Ring sizes accurate — verify with ring stick or mandrel
- Chain length within ±2mm of specified length
- Earring post thickness minimum 0.8mm for durability
Hallmark and Marking
- Hallmark present and in correct position (typically inside shank or on back)
- Hallmark legible — characters clear, not stamped too lightly
- Mark content correct: metal type + purity (e.g., "925", "14K", "750")
- No unauthorized marks or stamps
- Laser marks (if used) are permanent and not surface-only
Packaging
- Correct packaging type per specification (box, pouch, card)
- No damage to boxes, pouches, or display materials
- Labels and barcodes correct, legible, and scannable
- Anti-tarnish strips included for silver items
- Each piece individually protected from scratching during transit
Documentation
- Commercial invoice matches actual shipment — item count, descriptions, values
- Packing list accurate — all quantities verified
- Material test reports included for precious metal content
- Compliance certificates included (nickel release, lead content) if required
- Defect photos documented and shared with factory for any findings
How to Use This Checklist
- Print this checklist before your inspection or send it to your third-party inspector.
- Select your AQL sample size based on batch quantity (see ISO 2859-1 Level II tables).
- Go through each section systematically. Do not skip sections because the first few pieces looked fine.
- Document every defect found with a photo and note which piece number in the sample.
- Count total defects by category (critical, major, minor). Apply your AQL acceptance criteria.
- If the batch passes: sign off and authorize final payment or shipment.
- If the batch fails: document the reasons clearly, share inspection report with the factory, and agree on corrective actions and timeline before authorizing any payment.