Hiring a Jewelry Appraiser

You have spent time and hard earned money to choose that perfect diamond. But do you know if your prized possession is really priceless? How do you insure and protect its value? To answer these questions, you need to hire a professional jewelry appraiser. Before hiring a jewelry appraiser it is important to ask about his or her qualifications. Be sure to ask about, formal education, professional memberships and gemological certification. Gemological training is vital but is only a part of the education for a jewelry appraiser. Gemology training does not take the place of official jewelry appraisal and valuation education. Here are some important steps to know when choosing an jewelry appraiser:

Contact an appraisal organization. A professional appraisal organization will offer continuous educational seminars and accreditation. Review the credentials of the jewelry appraiser and keep in mind that a Graduate Gemologist is educated in authenticating faceted gemstones: identification and grading. An Appraiser is formally educated in appropriate valuation methodology that follows the minimum guidelines set forth by the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). Some gemologist and jewelry appraisers are independent: they don't buy and sell. Some gemologist and jewelry appraisers work in or own a jewelry store. You need to decide whether you want to hire an independent jewelry appraiser or one who is attached to the jeweler. In case you are not too sure, there are several professionally recognized appraisal organizations you might want to contact The American Society of Appraisers, The International Society of Appraisers, or The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.