859-388-0080
FAQ
What’s included with an appraisal?
Your appraisal will include color photographs, gemstone identification, diamond plotting if necessary, metal identification, weight, and other identifying characteristics needed to insure your jewelry and replace or remake it in the event of catastrophic damage or loss. Additional research may be required depending on the complexity, age, or rarity of a piece.
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Please bring all paperwork, including previous appraisals, laboratory reports, and receipts as these often provide important information such as weights before mounting, provenance, etc.
How much does an appraisal cost?
Unless your pieces are incredibly complex, pricing starts at $150 for one piece.
If you have more than one piece, the pricing is as follows: $250 for two pieces, $350 for three pieces, $450 for four pieces, and $550 for five pieces.
After five pieces, pricing switches to $150/hour. If you have a large collection or estate, I will give you an estimate before work begins.
Why do I need an appraisal?
An appraisal is necessary to obtain insurance, distribute an estate, declare value on legal and tax documents, etc. An independent appraisal will show the value of a piece in the current market irrespective of the purchase price.
What kinds of appraisals do you offer?
Replacement Value, Comparable Value, Fair Market Value, Estate Value, Liquidation Value, and more.
What can you appraise?
Jewelry, gemstones (although most insurance agencies won't insure loose stones), pearls, watches, flatware and hollowware, coinage, etc.
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Again, please bring all paperwork you may have about your pieces including past appraisals, laboratory reports, and receipts.
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Please bear in mind some pieces or appraisals will require more research than others.
How should I insure my jewelry?
You can insure your jewelry through your homeowners/renters insurance by adding a jewelry rider. Alternatively, you may choose to insure your jewelry with a separate jewelry policy through a jewelry only insurer such as Jewelers Mutual, Chubb, or Lavalier.
How much does insurance cost?
Typically, you can expect jewelry insurance to average 1-2% of the value of the piece per year. As with all insurance, it's best to shop around before committing.
