APPRAISALS
Expert Appraisal Services for Your Precious Assets
Our appraiser, Jeanne is a
GIA graduate gemologist (G.G.) and
a member of the American Gem Society 1983-87
Contact Jeanne to schedule an appointment
Monday, Thursday and every other Saturday
Everything You Need to Know About Jewelry Appraisals
Jewelry is often more than just an accessory; it is a valuable investment that may hold deep sentimental value as well. Whether you are looking to insure your jewelry, sell it, or simply want to know its worth, a professional jewelry appraisal is essential. At The Jewelry Source, we are equipped to assist you in determining the exact value of your pieces, from precious gemstones to antique heirlooms. In this article, we will discuss our appraisal services, the associated fees, and the step-by-step process involved.
What Does an Appraisal Cost?
Our appraisal services cover rings, bracelets, pendants, and other fine jewelry. Pricing is determined by the size of the center stone and the number of accent stones, with custom estimates provided for larger or highly intricate pieces.
The same pricing structure applies to both new and updated appraisals.
We provide complimentary updates for appraisals originally created by our team.
Center Stone (ct) | 0–20 Stones | 20–50 Stones | >50 Stones | (As of 6/2025) |
Up to 1.00ct | $125.00 | $155.00 | $195.00 | |
1.01ct - 1.50ct | $155.00 | $185.00 | $225.00 | |
1.51ct - 2.00ct | $185.00 | $215.00 | $255.00 | |
> 2.01ct | Estimate only |
These are standard pricing guidelines; actual costs may vary depending on the type of gemstones and the overall complexity of the piece. A final quote will always be provided to the customer for approval once our appraiser has evaluated the jewelry in person.
What is a Jewelry Appraisal?
An appraisal is an official valuation for a specific market at a given date, offering an expert's credentialed perspective on an item's worth. This document meticulously outlines all relevant qualitative and quantitative factors that contribute to the final value assessment.
Appraisals serve various crucial needs:
Insurance Coverage: The most frequent use case, documenting items to ensure accurate coverage against theft, loss, and damage.
Estate Settlements: Providing a fair market valuation essential for tax liability, asset distribution, or the equitable division of inherited items.
Verifying Purchases: When acquiring new jewelry, an independent appraisal serves as a reliable, impartial confirmation of the item's quality and value, offering peace of mind.
Types of Jewelry Appraisals
Retail Replacement Appraisal
If you need documentation for an insurance company, we provide a retail replacement appraisal to determine the current market value. This calculation takes into account what it would cost to replace the item with an identical one in the current retail market—including the rarity of the components, labor costs, and current market demand. This ensures you receive fair compensation in the event of loss or damage.
Estate Appraisal
An estate appraisal is conducted for the purpose of estate planning or settlement. It provides a strict estimate of the fair market value, typically used to determine inheritance tax liabilities or to distribute assets fairly among heirs.
Liquidation Appraisal
A liquidation appraisal is used when you are looking to sell your jewelry. It estimates the fair market value of your jewelry in its immediate condition, factoring in age, wear, and current secondary-market demand. This type of valuation is ideal if you are looking to sell your jewelry outright, trade it in, or consign it.
The Appraisal Process
At The Jewelry Source, we follow a meticulous process to ensure your items are accurately valued. The typical turnaround time is one to three business days. Here is what you can expect:
Item Inspection & Documentation:
The item is meticulously cleaned and inspected under magnification. All stones are identified, graded, and precisely measured. High-resolution photos are taken to document the item's condition, structural details, and any unique engraving or laser inscriptions.
Market Value Research:
We research current market data for the metal content and each specific gemstone. Our professional appraiser factors in rarity, historical manufacturing labor costs, and contemporary market demand to establish an accurate valuation.
Document Preparation:
Once finalized, we issue a comprehensive, legal appraisal document specifying the item's precise technical details and value at that specific point in time.
Loose Stone Certification
Loose stones without grading paperwork, or large stones set into a new mounting without an existing appraisal, may require additional steps. We may recommend sending uncertified loose stones to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) for laboratory grading prior to writing the final appraisal.
In these cases, the customer is responsible for the GIA grading fee (available on their website) plus shipping, handling, and insurance costs, which start at $60. Please allow an additional two to three weeks for this lab certification process. For example, a loose one-carat natural diamond would cost approximately $255 plus tax to be fully appraised, which includes secure, insured shipping in both directions (based on 2023 baseline rates).
Selling or Consigning Your Jewelry
If your ultimate goal is to liquidate an item, we can advise you on the best path forward—whether that involves an outright purchase, a store trade-in, or placing the piece in our consignment program. Our professional appraiser helps establish a realistic fair market value so you can make an informed, confident decision.
FAQs
What is a jewelry appraisal?
It is an official document that specifies the detailed technical attributes and monetary value of your jewelry at a specific point in time, based on manufacturing costs, stone quality, and market demand.
Why do I need an appraisal?
An appraisal is necessary to secure accurate insurance coverage, settle estates, file certain tax documents, or verify the authenticity and value of a recent purchase.
How long does the appraisal process take?
Standard appraisals take one to three business days. If a loose gemstone needs to be sent to the GIA for laboratory certification, the process takes approximately two to three weeks.
Can The Jewelry Source help me sell my jewelry?
Yes. We offer options for outright purchase, trade-in credits, and jewelry consignment. We will guide you toward the option that nets you the best return for your specific pieces.