The most common reason for getting a professional appraisal is for insurance purposes. Over the years, the value of a stone can vary tremendously. If your last documented appraisal is more than two years old, your item(s) could be insured for less than its replacement value. If your jewelry is stolen, lost, or damaged, you could be risking significant financial losses. Other reasons often include estate and tax purposes, donations, loans, and divorce settlements.
In the past, color, clarity, and weight used to account for most of the questions consumers had about their diamonds and gemstones. However, diamonds have gotten more costly and many new treatments and ethical issues have come up in recent years. Now, the list of things we need to identify and questions we need to answer has grown significantly. Questions now include things like:
· Is the most recent grading document accurate and thorough?
· Is the grading document unaltered and genuine?
· Has the stone been cut correctly?
· Has the diamond undergone any artificial treatment?
· Is the setting of the stone proper and undamaged?
· What is known about where the stone was sourced?
For consumers, this list of new questions underscores the importance of working with an independent appraisal service. Appraisals can vary quite a bit depending on who is conducting them. It’s not uncommon to see different grades of color and clarity from appraisers who are reputable but just have different standard or interpretations.
As a self-employed jewelry, diamond and precious metal appraiser, I am not motivated to inflate or deflate the value of your items. When you trust SAZ Gems and Jewelry, you can be sure that your appraisal will reflect the true value of your diamond or gemstone. Independent appraisers are unbiased and motivated only to conduct proper research and give an accurate valuation.
If you already got an appraisal from the jeweler where you purchased the item, you may want to get a second opinion. Often times, merchants will provide free valuations with a purchase. An independent appraiser can help you avoid paying excessive premiums, underinsuring your jewelry, and most importantly, ensure that you got what you paid for.
Takeways
· We encourage consumers to get a private appraisal before purchasing or selling a diamond, gemstone, or any precious metals.
· Come see us every couple of years to ensure all of your documentation is up-to-date and accurate
· If you decide to use another appraiser, read reviews carefully and verify that they are an independently owned company
· Make sure they are a credentialed service and GIA Graduate Gemologist
· Ask if the appraiser has completed testing and valuation training by a recognized association such as the ASA (American Society of Appraisers) or the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.
· Be sure you understand the service provided and the costs are clearly communicated and agreed upon before any work begins
If you have questions about your diamond, jewelry, gemstones, or precious metals, we are happy to help!