Frequently Asked Questions
 Couldn't I just take my jewelry to a store? Why do I need an independent appraiser to look at my valuables?
Sure, you could take your jewelry to a store and have it appraised there, but that's a bit like taking your car to a dealership and asking them how much it's worth. What you'll really find in those instances is what the retailer is willing to pay you, because he has an interest in the item that sits in front of him. An independent appraiser, by contrast, has no personal or professional stake in the value of your jewelry, but he does make a living on honest, accurate valuations - plus it's often all he does. You'll get straighter answers.
Is an appraisal legal proof of what my jewelry is worth?
Pretty close, but not exactly. What you'll end up holding is an independent professional's very best opinion of what your jewelry is worth at the time it's appraised. The real worth of an appraisal is often in the specific description of the articles themselves. While the valuation is useful, too, the exact dimensions of a stone, for example, can easily be used by an insurance company to get a near-perfect replacement item for you.
I'm not close and won't be for a while - can you still appraise my jewelry?
Sure we can. Give us a call or send us an email and we'll fill you in on the process. We use insured couriers to safely and securely transport your valuables to us and then back to you.
What do you actually *do* when you're appraising jewelry?
We take a series of precise measurements, we evaluate based on industry standards and valuation guidelines, and we use our best judgment to put together an accurate picture of what you have, including an assessment of its value in dollars. Photographs are also taken and included with the appraisal. And you're welcome to watch the process and ask questions; we think it's fascinating and are always happy to educate jewelry owners on their pieces and our processes.
Do I really need an appraisal?
You might, or you might not. Please see our Why You Need It page for more info.
How much do your appraisals cost?
To give you an idea, we usually charge around $100 to appraise a simple ring. More complicated pieces may be slightly higher: contact us for specific information on your piece. It's important to note that it's unethical for anyone's appraisal fee to be associated with the value of the item itself. A truly objective appraiser only charges by the hour or by the piece.
What qualifies someone to appraise jewelry?
This is more complicated that it might first appear. A truly qualified appraiser will have formal education in gemology and the precepts of valuation. This will include experience in the different types of markets that are involved, the processing that jewelry goes through before it reaches the individual owner, and experience in buying and selling. To be assured of objectivity, you'll want the appraiser to have a finger on the pulse of the jewelry market, but not be actively involved. A complete and working gem lab is key as well, and, finally, you'll want someone who's been both trained in the ethics of jewelry appraisals and who stands by those principles.
When in doubt, ask. Your appraisal professional should be able to prove he's all of the above and should be more than willing to do so without a moment's hesitation. I also think it's part of my duty as appraiser to educate as we go along, answering any questions you might have about your jewelry and the appraisal process.
I'd like for you to appraise my jewelry. How can I set this up and how long will it take you?
Give us a call at 256.295.6788 or send an email to marvin@keystoneappraisals.net. You can also get in touch via a form on our About Us page.
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