Introduction to Jewelry Appraisals

Fine jewelry is valuable, luxurious, and desirable. These accessories have long been used as status symbols, fashion favorites, and romantic declarations. Jewelers have created a boundless variety of jewelry utilizing all kinds of materials. As a result, the world of fine jewelry abounds with counterfeits, vintage-inspired alternatives, and gemstone simulants. It takes an expert eye to recognize the true authenticity of a piece. If it is not genuine, you may not know it, as only a certified professional can recognize the nuances in a piece’s design. Read this guide for the answers to all your appraisal questions and bring it to a reputable appraiser like T-Bird Jewels.

What Should Be Appraised

First, note that all jewelry can be appraised. The value of jewelry changes over time as prices increase and decrease. Even if you have owned a piece for a long time, it may be worth taking to an appraiser. This is essential if you insure the item, as insurance companies will need an accurate estimate to cover it. If there is a divorce settlement or any other dispute over the ownership of the jewelry, appraisals will also be required.

Second, the rule of thumb is that it should be appraised if you do not have a certificate of authenticity. If you bought it at an estate sale, thrift store, or streetside market, take it to an appraiser as soon as possible. This is the only way to find out what it is really worth. If you do receive a certificate of authenticity but still doubt its trustworthiness, do not hesitate to take it to an appraiser. Sadly, faking a certificate is easier than ever.

Lastly, any inherited jewelry should always be appraised. While you can trust and love whoever left it, they could have received inaccurate information about the item. You may also be surprised that a vintage item is more valuable than you expected, as their rarity makes them highly desirable by jewelry collectors.

How It Works

The appraisal process is fairly straightforward from the customer’s end. You will bring in the jewelry, pay the fee, and wait. Our expert gemologist will inspect your jewelry and thoroughly grade everything about it, from the gemstones’ quality to the metal’s purity. This will involve the use of specialized equipment and techniques, as well as a look through a specialized magnifying glass.

After jotting down all the details, our experts will give you a complete report on your jewelry’s value. If you have any forms you need signed, we will do those, too. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do I Have to Do Before an Appraisal?

All you have to do is secure the fee and bring us the jewelry. If you have any documents pertaining to the piece or forms to sign for insurance, do not forget to bring them, too. 

We recommend putting the jewelry in a safe, secure, and clean container before bringing it over. Ideally, the original box works best. Before storing, make sure the jewelry is as clean as possible to allow for a faster appraisal. You can give it a gentle scrub at home with a soft toothbrush and water, or simply wipe off any detritus with a microfiber cloth.

How Long Does It Take?

As it is essential to be accurate, we take all the steps and precautions during appraisals. It takes roughly an hour to complete an inspection, though this can vary depending on the piece. If we are busy, it may take days to do a thorough examination. For best results, we recommend calling us beforehand or scheduling an appointment online. 

What Qualifies an Appraiser?

Trade standards and guidelines set by various jeweler organizations create a consistent quality of appraisals. Ultimately, there are no legal rules about who should and should not be an appraiser - it is illegal to intentionally overvalue items, however. People who conduct appraisals need to have a plethora of experience, expertise, and education in order to be reputable. The official Jewelers of America states that jewelry appraisers must have the following: 

• Gemology Certification: Organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offer a foundation for appraisal and inspection. While there are no federal institutions, make sure they are graduates from institutions like GIA.
• Appraisal Certifications: Trade organizations like the National Association of Jewelry Appraisals can prove a professional’s ability to accurately gauge jewelry’s worth.
• Experience: Any worthwhile appraiser should have years of experience in the industry, be it crafting, appraising, or buying jewelry.
• Up-To-Date Knowledge: As the field is always advancing, it’s essential for an appraiser to use contemporary techniques and technology. Moreover, the market changes all the time.

At T-Bird Jewels, we have decades of experience appraising and creating fine jewelry. We also employ goldsmiths and gemologists to ensure exceptional service.

How Do I Find a Qualified Appraiser?

It is easy to find a qualified appraiser. All you have to do is call T-Bird Jewels and ask to reserve an appointment. If you are unsure, ask about our qualifications. If you are outside of Las Vegas and require a speedy appraisal for whatever reason, call nearby jewelry stores and question them about their qualifications. Make sure to read their reviews and social media profiles to ensure they are legitimate and reputable. 

When it comes to appraisals, never cut corners. It is vital to get an accurate inspection. While there are some guides online on how to do it yourself, it is always best to take it to a professional. Our experts have been carefully trained in knowing the extensive standards, laws, and qualities that separate high and low-quality jewelry.

Get Your Jewelry Appraised by T-Bird Jewels

Whether you are getting an engagement ring, bracelet, or necklace appraised, do it at T-Bird Jewels. Our qualified staff are certified by prestigious organizations and have decades of combined experience. We can even work with you to create your own fine jewelry via help from our talented goldsmiths and gemologists. 

Only the most skilled and knowledgeable professionals can conduct these fantastic services. Should your appraised jewelry need maintenance to bring out its best quality, bring it to us for a repair or restoration. Have questions? Call (702) 256-3900 or email Info@TBirdJewels.com for the answers to all of your appraisal questions.