Let’s talk about what an appraisal is, who is qualified to do it, why it is important, and what to look out for! An appraisal is crucial when insuring your jewelry for losses, theft and to prove the authenticity of your purchase.
How to know the value of your jewelry?
You get it appraised!
- What is an appraiser?
An appraiser is a certified professional who typically holds a GIA or FGA degree where they have completed a set number of courses and passed a final exam. The degree provides students with advanced training in jewelry, diamonds, and colored gemstones. Gemologists, however, are not qualified to identify the value of jewelry. Appraisers hold further credentials and expertise in estimating the price and value of gemstones.
Why is a jewelry appraisal important?
Jewelry appraisals are important because they will prove the authenticity of your gemstones, diamonds and jewelry. They will be able to tell you if your stone is natural or synthetic and if any, what treatments have taken place.
AA piece of jewelry can receive a Replacement value (highest) or a Liquidation value (lowest). This can be important when you, for example, receive an heirloom. Depending on where the piece of jewelry is from, how old it is, and the craftsmanship, its value could vary. Using a collection of intricate tools, appraisers determine the authenticity and treatment of the jewelry. Using all of their findings, appraisers will then create a price estimate.
In most cases, hen spending over $5000 on a piece jewelry, your insurance company will require a certified appraiser to evaluate its value before insuring it. A jeweler will not insure a center stone, therefore, insuring a valuable gemstone may require an appraisal.
Although your seller could be a certified appraiser, you should still seek out a qualified third party when evaluating your jewelry to avoid ethical conflicts.
How long does it take to get your jewelry appraised?
It generally takes around 3 to 7 business days, depending on how busy the appraiser is. An appraisal can cost an average of $150.
Can gemstones be highly valued?
Yes! Gemstones can be on either end of the spectrum, relatively inexpensive or extremely costly. Sapphires, emeralds, and rubies hold the most value and can vary in price based on size and color.
- What is the average value of an engagement ring?
There is no average value, it solely depends on you! However, you can communicate your budget and preferences for an engagement ring with us and we can do our best to achieve them.
Where to get an appraisal?
With us! We offer appraisals for gemstones/diamonds for the price of $100 and $150 for the appraisal of a complete ring. We take around 3-7 business days, however, rush orders are a possibility if needed. If clients are shipping jewelry to us for appraisal, we offer shipping insurance for the full retail price.
If you have any further questions or inquiries, contact us through info@fineandflux.com!
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