Appraisal Services

Insurance Appraisal (Retail Replacement)

An insurance replacement appraisal is the most common type of appraisal. It is requested when jewelry either needs to be insured or when jewelry that is already insured needs an updated appraisal for a jewelry insurance policy. This appraisal reflects the current replacement value of the piece. It is recommended to get your fine jewelry re-appraised every 3-5 years for the most accurate and up to date estimate with constantly changing market prices.

Fair Market Value Appraisal

A Fair Market Value ("FMV") appraisal may be requested for the purpose of determining fair market value for any reason (see a couple of these types listed below), but most likely for selling or buying on the secondary market. It is an assessment based on what a willing buyer and seller would agree to without a forced sale. The U.S. Department of Treasury defines FMV as: "...the price at which the property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or to sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts." These types of appraisals reflect the current market and demand.

Probate/Estate Appraisal

An estate jewelry appraisal is requested when jewelry that belongs to an estate needs to be appraised and valued for the purpose of taxation or division of property. This appraisal may also include professional testimony in legal proceedings.

Divorce Settlement

A divorce settlement appraisal is requested to determine the jewelry's worth in a jewelry-related property settlement for accurate and equitable division of property. This appraisal may also include professional testimony in legal proceedings.

To have valuable items insured for loss, theft, and/or damage
The average American owns jewelry and other valuables that are passed down from generation to generation. Perhaps you have inherited jewelry and are unaware of what the value is. It is important to have valuable items insured for loss, theft, and/or damage.

To assist family members in equitable or equal distribution of valuable family items in pre-settling and estate planning
Appraisals are not only for insurance reasons but also to assist family members upon the passing of a loved one in determining an equitable or equal distribution of the jewelry and gemstones that were owned.

To convince a potential buyer that jewelry pieces are authentic
An appraisal can also be used to confirm authenticity if a person is purchasing jewelry from a jewelry show, over the internet or through many other venues. For example, an individual could use an appraisal to confirm authenticity of jewelry prior to making payment to someone they do not know well.