How to Find a Trustworthy Jewelry Appraiser
It can be intimidating to find a qualified jewelry appraiser. Several questions are spinning through your mind about the process. You are not alone! Finding a qualified and trustworthy jewelry appraiser you are comfortable with can be stressful.
Your worries and stress are understandable!
A jewelry appraisal provided by a professional and qualified jewelry appraiser is reliable and accurate. Some appraisals performed by other individuals who do not have the proper credentials tend to be less accurate.
Less accurate jewelry appraisals may be overvalued or undervalued.
It is, therefore, always wise to have your jewelry appraised by trustworthy and qualified local appraisers near me.
What to Look for in a Trustworthy Jewelry Appraiser
Trust is an essential factor in any relationship. It is no different when dealing with jewelry appraisers. You want to make sure the jewelry appraiser will give you a reliable appraisal.
Unlike real estate appraisers, there are no state or federal laws that regulate jewelry appraisers. As such, anyone can claim to be a jewelry appraiser.
The challenge and task of finding a trustworthy jewelry appraiser rest on your shoulders. This requires more than just heading to the nearest jewelry store. Not all those who work in the jewelry industry can qualify as a qualified jewelry appraiser.
Whether you want to sell or insure your jewelry, a qualified jewelry appraiser should be a trusted ally.
Here are some qualities you need to look for in a trustworthy appraiser among local appraisers near me to ensure you get an accurate and fair appraisal:
Credentials
A trustworthy diamond appraiser near me should have the proper credentials to do the task. He needs to have these credentials:
Gemological Credentials. The jewelry appraiser should have a Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or its equivalent gemological training.
A gemologist graduate can identify and grade diamonds and other gem materials.
Appraisal Credentials. A qualified jewelry appraiser is someone who is titled by a respectable national appraisal organization like the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.
Knowledge of Jewelry
A trustworthy and qualified jewelry appraiser should have knowledge of jewelry manufacturing techniques concerning the value of the item. He should have a thorough understanding of how different manufacturing techniques affect the value of your jewelry.
He should also have in-depth knowledge of the current jewelry market and how to identify the value of your jewelry.
Experience in Jewelry Appraisal
Many years of solid jewelry appraisal experience results in a more knowledgeable appraiser. There are many kinds of gemstones and metal materials. The appraiser should have experience in evaluating all types of fine jewelry. In short, he has almost seen it all!
Commitment to Continuing Education
Look for continuing education credentials and certificates such as taking advanced courses and attending seminars. This ensures that the appraiser is up to date with the latest issues in gemology and jewelry appraisal.
High Legal and Ethical Standards
Jewelry appraisers will handle your valuable jewelry and personal information, so they have to conform to the highest levels of professional behavior.
A reputable qualified jewelry appraiser should have high ethical standards and be knowledgeable on the latest legal standards. He should also have a good reputation within the jewelry industry.
Before committing to having your jewelry appraised by a particular appraiser, do your research. You can use the website of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers to research.
You can also ask your family and friends to refer you to a qualified jewelry appraiser they have used in the past.
What to Expect from a Jewelry Appraisal
A jewelry appraisal is crucial in evaluating the value of your jewelry. It is, therefore, vital that you are aware of what goes on during the appraisal process.
Before the appraisal
Find a trustworthy jewelry appraiser with experience.
Bring any paperwork to our appointment you may have related to your jewelry. Types of documents can include sales receipts, lab reports (also called certs), and previous appraisals. Documents like these can help create a more accurate and complete appraisal for you including where your jewelry was purchased and when, and stock numbers and reference numbers not on the jewelry itself.
During the appraisal
Bing any paperwork you have related to your jewelry. These documents could be certificates of authenticity and previous appraisal receipts. These documents can help the appraiser create a more accurate appraisal.
Tell the appraisal what type of appraisal you need (insurance, resale, or liquidation).
You should expect the appraiser to professionally interact with you and conduct the appraisal process.
The appraiser should be willing to answer all your questions. In the same manner, do not hesitate to ask questions.
Make sure the appraiser explains the methodology and grading system he will use before the appraisal begins.
After the appraisal
You should receive an official jewelry appraisal document signed by the qualified jewelry appraisal and embossed with his seal.
Final Thoughts
We know that your jewelry can be one of your most expensive assets. Most of them have sentimental values, too. As such, it is important to have your jewelry appraised to know its monetary value.
The right person to approach for an appraisal is a qualified jewelry appraiser. Not just any qualified appraiser but a trustworthy appraiser who can provide you with an accurate service.
The jewelry appraisal process should be stress-free and simple from start to finish. Avoid over-inflated or undervalued jewelry appraisals. You should make sure to stick only with the experts.
Take the guessing game out of how much your jewelry is worth. It always pays to find out!