Appraisals
Jewelry appraising is a highly specialized field that requires continuing education, training, experience, knowledge of the many markets in which jewelry is bought and sold, contacts throughout the industry, and staying up-to-date on all of the latest synthetic materials and gem treatments that are introduced every year. Although I prepared fine jewelry appraisals for more than 20 years, and earned the title of Certified Gemologist Appraiser through the American Gem Society, because I do not own a gemological laboratory, I no longer conduct appraisals.
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When someone states that she needs a piece of jewelry appraised, my first questions is, “For what purpose?" This isn't because I'm nosy, but rather to learn what type of appraisal is needed, for a single piece of jewelry can have several different values attributed to it. The response often is, "I really don't need anything in writing; I just want to a rough idea of how much this ring is worth."
Worth to whom? A consumer in the retail market looking for that exact piece of jewelry? Or an estate buyer who will purchase it for resale on the second-hand market? Are you perhaps considering selling the ring because you never wear it and would rather it to cash?
If this is the root of your question, learn more about my unique method for liquidating fine jewelry here. Or perhaps you are considering the fair distribution of your collection among family members. There are many reasons why someone might want to know the cash value a piece of jewelry holds.
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If we determine that you do require professional jewelry appraisal services, whether for insurance replacement purposes or some other specific circumstance, I will refer you to the right local appraiser for your needs -- someone whose ethics, standards, and quality of work meet my standards.
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You might be surprised to learn that anyone in the state of Missouri can declare him- or herself a jewelry appraiser. There are no educational or professional requirements for jewelry appraisers whatsoever, so buyer beware.
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Contact me to learn more.
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