FAQs

A Certificate of Authenticity is a recognized document that addresses the origins and craftsmanship of your instrument or bow:

• • • Where was the instrument / bow made?
    • When was it made?  
    • Who was the maker?

Select authentication experts employ several different techniques to determine if the instrument is genuinely the product of the maker whose label or signature it bears. Our world-renowned experts carefully examine and discuss the design, model, wood characteristics, and varnish texture. Their high level of expertise has developed after having studied hundreds to thousands of instruments.

A certificate of authenticity from our experts guarantees that the instrument is genuine, protects its value, and prevents counterfeit activity in the market. It also makes the instrument or bow easier to sell, should you choose. Written certification is necessary to insure a fine instrument. Accurate proof of authentication and appraisal can benefit both the client and insurer. We can provide everything you need to insure your instrument.

INSTRUMENTS

• • • Jean-Jacques Rampal
    • Jonathan Marolle

BOWS

• • • Jean-François Raffin
    • Yannick Le Canu
    • Sylvain Bigot

All are internationally recognized as highly respected authenticators and experts. “Since 1909 our shop is home to an extensive archive. We look at thousands of instruments a year, taking notes, taking pictures, making comparisons, writing articles, and giving lectures…Giving an opinion on an instrument is a big responsibility… Only few workshops around the world have the real knowledge and experience to deliver solid opinions on instruments,” Jean-Jacque Rampal of Vatelot-Rampal in Paris.

Yes, authentication confirms the identity of an instrument/bow. Appraisal determines the current market value of an instrument/bow and is influenced by its overall condition, provenance, and place of construction.

An appointment fee of $75 will provide you with a verbal appraisal from our experts. If you decide to certify any of your instruments or bows, we will gladly reimburse your appointment fee. The Certificate of Authenticity fee will be 5% of the appraised value (minimum of €400 or 5% of instrument value, whichever is greater.)

Yes, you can! Let us know what you would like to send. We will provide instructions on how to pack and ship. The appointment fee will be waived for those shipping instruments. Clients may send multiple instruments and will only be charged for elected certification fees.

Contact us today to set up your appointment or shipment:
Call us at 213.471.2124 Email us at info@laviolinshop.com
We look forward to assisting you!