F.A.Q's
How do I Select The Right Qualified Jewelry Appraiser ?
There are many certifications jewelry appraisers can obtain, some of which require
extensive education and training from reputable accredited schools, and others with few
requirements from lesser known schools that are not accredited.
Why Should I Have My Jewelry Appraised?
1. You need an appraisal if you want to obtain insurance coverage on items worth more than $500.
2. You should have an appraisal if you plan to sell your jewelry or use it as collateral.
3. You need an appraisal to settle an estate or for fair distribution of gifts.
4. You need an appraisal to claim a casualty loss for your insurance company or the IRS.
5. You should have an appraisal for division of property in a divorce.
6. You need an appraisal for tax deduction of a charitable contribution.
7. You should have an appraisal for any dispute between you and a retailer.
How Often do I Need My Jewelry Appraised?
The Insurance Institute of America recommends that jewelry be re-appraised
every five years. If you have an outdated appraisal - Updating your appraisal
can be done relatively quickly and inexpensively.
What Happens First ?
First, you will fill out a quick form with your name, address and phone number and indicate the
intended use of the appraisal.
I will then briefly explain to you the grading criteria for diamonds and or colored gemstones, so that
you will have a basic idea of how the quality of a gemstone relates to value. This will help you to
understand the evaluation and valuation process that I will be performing on your jewelry item.
You sit directly across from me while I conduct the evaluation. Your jewelry item is always in plain
view.
I explain the evaluation and valuation process as I am conducting it and am happy to answer any
questions you might have.
I Have Old Appraisals. Will my New Appraisal Cost Less?
No. Actually the new appraisal will take longer to do since we do compare the info with our
observations. In the even something differs, we will point it out to you.