All you always wanted to know about jewelry appraisal
Do you know the value of your jewels? Your collection of precious pieces, that are received, inherited or even bought as special treats, grows bigger over the years. While the jewels are usually stored in a safe place and treated with care, it is difficult to keep track of their value. Indeed, invoices get lost and jewelry value fluctuates. Therefore it is important to have jewels, watches and gemstones estimated by a professional before a burglary, a loss or an accident happens.
First of all, what exactly is an appraisal ?
A written statement, independently and impartially prepared by a qualified appraiser, setting forth an opinion of defined value of an adequately described property, as of a specific date supported by the presentation and analysis of relevant market information. (Federman, National Jeweler 1986).
When is a jewerly appraisal needed ?
The main reason to get your jewelry appraised is for insurance purposes. While the sentimental value cannot be quantified, the real value can be. The quality of the gems as well as the manufacturing and provenance of jewels can be defined with precision and dated by expert gemmologists. An appraisal provides you with a trustworthy identity card of your property, including weights, measurements, quality, manufacture, provenance and also its replacement value. This document is recognized by insurance companies, who will accordingly refund it.
In case of inheritance, an up-to-date inventory is recommended in order to get an estimated market value and thus share the property equitably. The appraisal also enables to not pay too high inheritance taxes.
For charitable donation, jewelry and gem appraisal may be required, especially if the beneficiary is a public institution or museum.
In case of divorce, the parties may also request an appraisal for the dissolution of commonly held property.
How often should an appraisal be renewed?
Due to the market evolution – currency fluctuations, diamond and gold prices, etc. –, an appraisal should to be revised and adapted every 5 years.
How to do an appraisal ?
First, we make an appointment with you to discuss the aim of your appraisal and the goods to be appraised. Then, respecting the appraisal ethics, we accurately calculate the values according to the reality of the market. Secured and insured during the appraisal period, the goods are handled and stored with the utmost care and respect. Finally, we take the time to give you all needed explanations on the appraisal.