The Benefits of jewellery Appraisals

A critical step in protecting and preserving the value of your jewellery is getting an updated appraisal on a regular basis. In fact, if the most recent appraisal of your jewellery took place five or more years ago, it’s time to get a new appraisal.

You may be asking what a jewellery appraisal does for you. The obvious answer is that an appraisal sets a value for your jewellery. And with today’s roller-coaster values for gold, platinum, silver and gemstones, knowing what your jewellery is worth can save you heartache later if your jewellery is lost or stolen.

The appraisal provides basic information most insurance carriers need to offer coverage for your jewellery. The updated value, along with the detailed description provided by an appraisal, will help smooth your settlement process if you were to suffer a loss.

Another appraisal benefit is having an updated assessment of your jewellery’s condition. Over time, prongs, clasps, settings and even stones can become loose or damaged. The review of your jewellery by a professional can help mitigate a possible loss by drawing to your attention any minor damage so an item can be repaired.

Now that I’ve convinced you to get an appraisal, who should you go to and what should it contain? The first choice for your appraisal should be a jeweler you trust. They should have the credentials necessary to do an appraisal, such as a Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) from the American Gem Society, and/or be a member of one of the appraisal societies that dictate ethical appraisal practices. You may already have a grading report from AGS or another lab. These reports are used to verify the quality and authenticity of gemstones or diamonds, but do not establish value.

Your jewellery appraisal should contain:

Your name and address
Type of jewellery
What is the jewellery item made of?
What type of gemstones are used?
How are the stones graded?
How is it designed or fashioned?
Condition of the item being appraised
colour photograph
Current precious metal values
Manufacturer, origin, or designer
Purpose of the appraisal (example: for insurance purposes)
Credentials of the appraiser
Signed and dated by the appraiser

Phillip Bosen is the Director of Business Development at Von Bargen’s jewellery and the only Certified Gemologist Appraiser in Vermont.

Taken from: AMERICAN GEM SOCIETY
By Phillip Bosen, CGA and Director of Business Development at Von Bargen’s jewellery