Have you recently inherited some jewelry and you’d like to have it appraised?
Image courtesy of “Gualberto107”; freedigitalphotos.net
Trying to determine whether to sell or hold onto your jewelry?
In need of an appraisal for insurance purposes?
Need valuation for a divorce or estate plan?
Not all appraisers are created equal. There is currently no governing body to administer testing and certification for jewelry appraisers, so anyone can hold themselves out to be an appraiser. Simply because someone buys and sells jewelry, does not make that individual qualified to appraise jewelry.
Here are some qualities to look for – and some to avoid – when selecting someone to professionally appraise your fine jewelry.
1. Fees
It is unethical for a jewelry appraiser to charge fees based on the ultimate value of the jewelry. Only choose someone whose fee is based on the estimated time spent to appraise the pieces, or the number of items being appraised. Be sure to get an estimate up front.
2. Clear Explanations
A good appraiser will provide a clear explanation of the grading system he or she uses to evaluate your diamonds or gemstones. Do not accept an explanation in language you do not understand.
The appraiser should also explain the appraisal report’s limitations of use. For example, an appraisal performed for insurance purposes can only be used for insurance, not for an estate plan or something else.
3. Professional Reports
Appraisals are handled differently depending upon their intent. The appraisal report should reflect the methodology used to perform the appraisal for its specific purpose. The statement of total value should be fashioned in a way that does not allow for any modifications (such as with a seal).
The report should contain specifics such as:
description of all characteristics of the item – weights, grades, measurement of components, color grade (determined using comparison gemstones)
notes on gemstone treatments
notes on type of setting
statement of whether gemstone is natural or synthetic
photograph of the item
Keep in mind the total value may differ depending upon the purpose of the appraisal. For example, with insurance valuations, the jewelry’s value will differ depending on whether you want to insure it for its cash value (today’s market rate), replacement value (market value at time of loss), or agreed value (settled between you and insurer).
4. Check the Appraiser’s Resume
The important question to an appraiser is not “What do you charge?” but rather “What qualifies you to appraise my personal property?”
A professional appraiser should have taken and passed courses and examinations in evaluation and valuation, principles and business practices, appraisal ethics, standards, and report writing. They should also keep up with industry changes and developments through continuing education.
Check your appraiser’s stated association memberships by going online. Also be sure the appraiser has “errors and omissions” insurance, which means if they make an error on the appraisal report, you can still be compensated for your jewelry.
The following are reputable memberships and certifications to look for:
American Society of Appraisers – look for certifications of Accredited Senior Appraiser (ASA) and Master Gemologist Appraiser
Gemological Institute of America graduate
5. Trust Your Gut
Always value your own intuition. Select an appraiser you feel comfortable with, an experienced certified appraiser who has both gemological and appraisal education, who is courteous, professional, and respectful, who carefully explains the process to you and who gladly answers all your questions.
