Do Your Jewellery Scales Meet Legal Requirements? Why Class II is a Must for Precious Metals and Gems

If you’re weighing gold, diamonds or any fine jewellery for sale, your scale isn’t just a tool. It’s a legal responsibility. And not just any scale will do. Here’s why Class II trade-approved scales are the gold standard for jewellers.

What Does “Trade Approved” Actually Mean?

If you’re pricing items based on weight, like precious metals or gemstones, UK law says your scale must be legal for trade. It’s not a formality. It’s the law, and it’s there to protect both you and your customers.

This is covered under:

• The Weights and Measures Act 1985

• The Non-Automatic Weighing Instruments Regulations 2016

But here’s where it gets interesting. The law doesn’t specifically say you must use a Class II scale. Instead, it uses the phrase “fit for purpose”. That means the scale you use has to be accurate enough for what you’re selling. And when it comes to gold, diamonds and other high-value items, that means precision, down to the smallest gram or even milligram.

What’s “Fit for Purpose” for Jewellery?

Let’s break this down. Scales are grouped into different classes, depending on how accurate they are:

Now think about what you weigh. A tiny diamond, a 2g gold pendant, a platinum ring. With those kinds of items, even a 0.1g inaccuracy can mean a significant price difference.

That’s why Trading Standards officers expect you to be using Class II or better. Class III might be trade approved, but it’s just not accurate enough for what you do.

So Why Is Class II So Important?

✅ Because It Keeps You Legal

Trading Standards won’t just ask if the scale is approved. They’ll ask if it is fit for purpose. A Class II scale helps you say yes, confidently.

✅ Because Small Mistakes Add Up

If your scale is off by even 0.05g, and you’re selling 24ct gold at £50 a gram, you could lose money on every sale or risk overcharging a customer. Neither is a good outcome.

✅ Because It Builds Trust

Your customers want to know they’re getting exactly what they’re paying for. The right scale shows them you’re transparent, accurate and professional.

Class II vs Class III: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick comparison:

Bottom line? Class III is fine for apples. Not for sapphires.

Looking for a Trade-Approved Jewellery Scale?

We’ve got you covered at Scales & Balances.

Whether you’re buying, selling or valuing fine items, these Class II scales are spot on:

• A&D FX-i Series – brilliant accuracy, compact design

• Adam Highland Compact Balance – great for bench use in jewellery shops

• Ohaus Pioneer PX – trusted worldwide, easy to use and calibrate

All of them are trade approved and tailored for UK jewellery businesses.

Not Sure Which Scale You Need?

Don’t worry, it can be confusing. But that’s where we come in.

If you’re setting up a new shop, reviewing compliance or just want peace of mind, we can help you choose a scale that ticks every box: legal, accurate and right for your business.

📞 Get in touch and speak with one of our scale experts today.

Final Takeaway: Don’t Risk It, Get It Right

If you’re selling jewellery, gold or precious gems by weight:

✅ Make sure your scale is trade approved
✅ Check that it’s Class II or better
✅ Ensure it reads to 0.01g or 0.001g
✅ And most importantly, that it is fit for purpose

Because in this business, accuracy isn’t just helpful — it is essential.

Still confused? For more information on Trade Approval click here.

Blog by the scalesandbalances.co.uk sales team with over 100 years joint experience.

Date:17th July 2025 (Updated: 23rd July 2025)