The Art and Science of Jewelry Appraisals: A Comprehensive Guide

Jewelry appraisals are a necessary process for some jewelry collectors who want to protect their investments. For others, it’s about determining the value of an heirloom out of curiosity.

No matter the reason, if you decide to seek out the help of a professional appraiser to evaluate your jewelry, it’s important to understand how the process works.

In this blog, we answer some of the most common questions about how jewelry appraisals work, including:

• What tools are used in jewelry appraisals?
• What expertise is required to conduct jewelry appraisals?
• What is the methodology for jewelry appraisals?
• What are some reasons to get your jewelry appraised?
• What are some of the challenges of jewelry appraisals?

What tools are used in jewelry appraisals?

Jewelry appraisals require a range of specialized tools and equipment. These items are used to assess the value and characteristics of gemstones, metals, and the overall craftsmanship of a piece.

Some of the most common tools appraisers use include:

• Gemological microscopes allow appraisers to closely examine gemstones for clarity, inclusions, and color characteristics. These microscopes are considered a crucial tool for identifying gemstones and assessing their quality.
• Jewelers’ loupes are small, handheld magnifying glasses used to inspect gemstones and the intricate details of jewelry settings and engravings.
• Spectroscopes analyze the spectral colors and absorption lines of gemstones, aiding in gemstone identification and assessing authenticity.
• Refractometers measure a gemstone’s refractive index, helping to identify the gemstone and assess its quality. Different gemstones have distinct refractive indexes.
• Gemstone calipers measure the dimensions of gemstones with precision, including the length, width, and depth, which is critical for estimating carat weight.
• Scales provide precise weighing (carats) of gemstones and precious metals. Scales with different levels of accuracy are used.
• Diamond testers use thermal conductivity to distinguish between diamonds and other gemstones to verify the authenticity of diamonds.
• Gold testing kits use acid or electronic components to determine the purity of gold and other precious metals.
• Laser pointers assist with assessing the symmetry and alignment of gemstone facets, especially in diamonds.
• UV light sources detect fluorescence in some gemstones. Different gemstones exhibit varying levels of fluorescence under UV light.
• High-resolution digital cameras document jewelry pieces and their features, which are important for appraisal records and documentation.
• Grading charts and references guide jewelry appraisers in comparing and assessing the quality and characteristics of gemstones.
• Measuring instruments such as precision rulers, gauges, and millimeter scales measure the dimensions and proportions of jewelry components accurately.

What expertise is required to conduct jewelry appraisals?

Conducting jewelry appraisals requires a combination of expertise, knowledge, and skills to accurately assess the value and characteristics of jewelry. It’s important to vet any appraisers you’re considering using, especially if the purpose of the appraisal is to obtain insurance coverage for the jewelry piece(s).

Choosing an appraiser who holds membership with the American Gem Society (AGS) or the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) assures that you’ve selected someone competent and skilled.

Jewelry appraisers with gemological knowledge who understand market trends and adhere to strict ethical standards are the best choices.

The importance of gemological knowledge

A deep understanding of gemstones is essential when conducting a thorough jewelry appraisal. Appraisers must identify gem types, their characteristics (color, clarity, cut), and their rarity.

Gemological expertise includes knowing how to distinguish between natural gems and synthetic or treated ones.

The importance of market trends

Appraisers must possess a strong understanding of market trends and keep up with current developments to accurately assess your jewelry.

Knowledge of historical and regional variations are market values is crucial to providing an accurate valuation of pieces, especially those that fall into the vintage, antique, and heirloom categories.

The importance of ethical standards

One of the reasons to look for a certified appraiser is the assurance that your jewelry appraiser adheres to ethical guidelines and professional standards to maintain the integrity of the appraisal process.

Ethical appraisers also can identify potential issues related to conflict or “blood” diamonds and adhere to ethical guidelines for appraisals with jewelry pieces that have these issues.

Appraisers must avoid conflicts of interest and maintain objectivity throughout the evaluation process.

What is the methodology for jewelry appraisals?

The methodology for jewelry appraisals involves a systemic and standardized process that professional appraisers follow to determine the value of your jewelry.

An accurate and unbiased assessment of the jewelry’s worth is the goal of a properly-conducted appraisal.

Step-by-step jewelry appraisal process

Jewelry appraisers must follow several steps in the process to ensure they’ve accurately evaluated and assessed jewelry pieces.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect from a typical methodology for jewelry appraisals:

• Step 1 – Gather information. The appraiser collects all relevant information about the jewelry, including its history, ownership, and any previous appraisals.
• Step 2 – Examine and inspect. A physical examination using all the tools of the trade assesses the condition, craftsmanship, and overall quality.
• Step 3 – Gemstone identification. Appraisers determine whether gemstones are natural, synthetic, or treated, and note any enhancements.
• Step 4 – Metal analysis. Assessing metal content and purity, plus any hallmarking, to verify metal quality against industry standards happens in this phase of the evaluation.
• Step 5 – Measurement and documentation. Precision tools are used to measure the dimensions and proportions of gemstones and other jewelry components.
• Step 6 – Photography. The appraiser takes high-resolution photos of the jewelry from multiple angles to document its appearance and any unique characteristics.
• Step 7 – Market research. Conducting market research to gather data on current trends and pricing for similar pieces occurs during this phase.
• Step 8 – Value estimation. Jewelry appraisers use a cost, market, or income approach to determine the value of your jewelry. Sometimes they use more than one of these approaches in their assessment.
• Step 9 – Final appraisal report. The jewelry appraiser compiles all collected data, observations, and calculations into a comprehensive report and presents it for your review and verification.
• Step 10 – If required, the appraiser may provide a certificate or statement of authenticity. These is particularly important when insuring high-value or unique jewelry pieces.

What are some reasons to get your jewelry appraised?

A professional jewelry appraisal is appropriate any time you need an unbiased and documented assessment of your jewelry’s value. You may need it for financial planning, legal matters, or simply peace of mind.

Some of the most common reasons for jewelry appraisals include:

• Estate planning. Part of creating an estate plan is to determine the current value of all your assets. Knowing the value of your jewelry helps with equitable distribution among heirs and estate tax calculations.
• Insurance coverage. Any time you want to take out an insurance policy on a piece of jewelry from your collection, the insurance company requires an appraisal. The amount of coverage you quality for depends on the jewelry’s overall value.
• Selling or reselling. Appraisals help you establish a fair asking price when selling or reselling your jewelry. Buyers are more likely to trust a sale when they have an independent appraisal to refer to outlining the overall worth of the jewelry.

What are some of the challenges of jewelry appraisals?

Jewelry appraisals, while essential for some purposes, can present several challenges due to the complexity and uniqueness of jewelry pieces.

One of the most common issues is subjectively assessing the aesthetic value and workmanship of jewelry. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but it’s not a reliable way to assign overall worth. Appraisers must balance objectivity with acknowledgement of subjective elements like design and style.

Other problems include:

• Gemstone identification sometimes poses a challenge, especially when dealing with rare or unusual stones.
• Market fluctuations due to economic factors, trends, and consumer preferences means appraisers must stay updated on these market dynamics to provide accurate valuations.
• Antique and vintage jewelry poses challenges due to their rarity in design and historical significance.
• Hidden features such as engravings, inscriptions, and unique settings may be overlooked during an initial inspection, affecting the accuracy of the appraisal.

How to avoid fraudulent appraisals

Avoiding fraudulent jewelry appraisals is essential to ensure you receive accurate and trustworthy assessments of your valuable jewelry.

Some tips for steering clear of this issue include:

• Choosing a qualified appraiser with reputable qualifications, such as certifications form recognized institutions like the GIA, AGS, or ISA.
• Verifying the appraiser’s credentials and affiliations with any professional organizations.
• Asking questions about the appraisal process. Legitimate appraisers are happy to explain their methods.

Get trusted, experienced jewelry appraisals

Harris Jewelers is your trusted source for jewelry appraisals in the Greater Albuquerque area. We rely on qualified gemologists with years of experience to accurately assess your jewelry pieces. Our appraisers grade the quality of your jewelry and assign it the correct market value by following a strict methodology designed to support accuracy.

Stop by our showroom today to talk with one of our gemologists about your jewelry appraisal needs.