Geo Veritas FAQ
What is Geo Veritas?
Geo Veritas is a research and verification center specializing in the identification of minerals, gems, and geological specimens with uncertain provenance.
Our work combines documentary analysis, institutional sources, forensic data, and a dedicated archive focused on thefts, losses, and illicit trafficking in the mineral sector.
What kind of checks do you perform?
Every item is examined through a multilayered process:
- review of the images provided
- comparison with our internal archive and verified external databases
- analysis of the declared provenance
- assessment of the legal risk linked to international circulation
- verification of any alerts related to theft, misappropriation, or pending disputes
Can I register a mineral as stolen or missing?
Yes. Geo Veritas allows the registration of:
• stolen items
• missing items
• at-risk collections
• specimens involved in disputes or claims
Registration is free for museums, public bodies, and academic institutions.
Do you issue a research certificate?
Yes. At the end of the verification process, we issue an official document confirming the outcome of the search in our archives and the sources consulted.
The certificate does not eliminate all risk, but it is a key due-diligence element for anyone buying or selling high-value specimens.
Do you also perform checks for private collectors and market operators?
Of course. The service is available to:
• collectors
• galleries
• dealers
• consultants
• insurance companies
• auction houses
Each verification may be requested individually or through a subscription.
What happens if the mineral is flagged as stolen?
If a positive match is found, we notify you immediately.
Geo Veritas then proceeds to:
• contact the rightful owner or the institution that filed the report
• initiate a mediation process for restitution
• provide legal assistance in accordance with international regulations
We never disclose sensitive information without authorization.
Can you support a buyer with due diligence before an important acquisition?
Yes. This is one of our core services.
Due diligence includes analysis of the provenance chain, assessment of market risk, and verification of issues related to export, import, or previous ownership.
It depends on the complexity of the case:
Preliminary screening: 48–72 hours
• Standard verification: 7–10 business days
• Fragmentary or incomplete provenance: 10–15 business days
• Entire collections: timelines agreed based on volume
Can you examine historical collections?
Yes. Geo Veritas works with foundations, museums, and archives to reconstruct the history of historical collections, identify losses, and update catalogues or inventories.
Can your services be used in a legal context?
Absolutely. Our reports may be used in:
• civil disputes
• restitution procedures
• technical expert opinions
• insurance claims
• export or import procedures
All analyses are prepared by qualified professionals and follow recognized technical standards.
Is the information I submit protected?
All data is treated confidentially.
Images, documents, and all information received are never shared with third parties without consent, except when required by law for cooperation with competent authorities.
Can I continuously monitor my minerals?
Yes. We offer an optional “continuous monitoring” service that notifies the owner if a registered specimen is identified on the market or in an international transaction.
Do you collaborate with law enforcement or international institutions?
We cooperate with public authorities, universities, research centers, and specialized bodies involved in protecting natural heritage whenever necessary for recovery or provenance verification.
How can I request a verification?
Simply submit:
• clear photos of the specimen
• dimensions
• any certificates or documents
• provenance information
• the context of the request (purchase, sale, check, donation, loan)
Requests can be submitted through our online portal or by email.
