What is a professional jewelry appraisal?
An appraisal is a document that explains an item, assesses its relative standard, and assigns a value to it. Getting your jewelry professionally appraised, generally cover the measurable, visible, and analyzable facts about the item (materials, weight, markings). Most jewelry appraisals also explain subjective features such as relative rarity, gemstone quality, and full standard of manufacture.
Why you need your jewelry professionally appraised
Right appraisals are vital because if your jewelry is ever lost, damaged or stolen, your insurance firm will refer to the appraisal in order to settle the claim. An outdated appraisal could outcome in your jewelry being underinsured, which could cost you in the end.
Market situations are continually changing, which means that the value of precious metals and gems that make up your fine jewelry is continually changing as well. This is why it is very vital to keep present appraisals on all of your fine watches and jewelry. Whether it is an heirloom brooch from your Grandmothers estate, to your charming wedding set that you wear every day, for your peace of mind and security, we advise that your appraisals be updated at least every 3 to 5 years. We will evaluate your collection to decide if you qualify for this service rate. Pricing is based on time taken to finish all appraisals.
How to find an honest jewelry appraiser
Appraisal credentials
An expert jewelry appraiser should be certified or titled by the best national appraisal organization, like the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. Different kinds of appraisals need varying levels of training.
Gemmological credentials
With no state or federal requirements for appraisers, it is very important to ask for credentials. A graduate Gemologist diploma from the GIA or its equivalent should be known minimum gemological training.
Continuing education
Continuing education certificates and credentials help make sure that the appraiser is knowledge about the new gemological and appraisal problems.
Knowledge of jewelry manufacture
In order to get jewelry professionally appraised, you must know manufacturing ideas and recognize their contributions to the value of an item.
Jewelry and appraisal experience
A big range of jewelry experience over many years generally leads to a more knowledgeable appraiser. Likewise, strong experience in the appraisal industry is very vital.
Top ethical standards and awareness of legal obligations
Appraisers should adhere to the top levels of professional behavior. Consider the appraiser’s professional affiliations, as well as the appraiser’s status within the industry. Ideally, work with a jewelry appraiser linked with Jewelers of America, and our members commit yearly to the highest ethical standards.