Jewelry, Diamond, Gemstone & Watch Appraisals

Location of the Inspection

Gemological items are always evaluated
in your presence at your home, office, bank
vault or, if you so choose, in our Irvine office.

Every stone has a value, let us value yours. We offer gemological services using a certified gemological laboratory to inspect your stones. Following the confirmation of information found on diamond or colored stone grading reports from gemological laboratories, these stones are valued. An appraisal document issued in conformity with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (U.S.P.A.P.) is the result of the evaluation process combined with the analysis of market research.

The cost of appraisals is based on hourly fees. Being prepared helps keep down your costs. The following checklist can help you prepare for the appraisal process.

Preliminary Appraisal Preparation

Talk with your insurance representative about policy limits to learn what items to include in your appraisal.
Schedule an appointment for a future date while you complete the following tasks.
Search your files to gather information you received when you purchased each piece, and those documents accumulated during ownership.
Copy for the appraiser's files the receipts, invoices, former appraisals, insurance schedules, stone grading reports and documents stating the history of ownership. This information supports essential claims; therefore, it influences value.

Attend to repairs of damaged items, all before the inspection. Damage and/or condition issues appear in the report.

Antique & Period Jewelry

Antique & period jewelry originated in time or period to complement the fashion that dictated the form. When necklines plunged, necklaces appeared in abundance. Earrings were most fashionable when hair designs revealed the ear. Along with fashion trends, construction techniques depend on the skill of artisans making jewelry from the materials invented or available. For example, white gold is a twentieth century invention.

Jewelry tells a story about its origin long after the oral tradition wanes. The appraiser discerns characteristics to identify and date an object. In the absence of hallmarks, trademarks or other identifying information, date conclusions come from three factors:

An understanding of fashion trends
Awareness of the characteristics of style, and
Knowledge of materials and construction techniques.

Modern jewelry originated after 1920 using modern techniques and materials. This jewelry includes a wide range of pieces created by designers and sold to the elite. Art Deco jewelry is the finest example of workmanship blended with the finest materials in symmetrical design.

Gemological Equipment used to evaluate jewelry and gemstones

Our Gemological Laboratory is certified by the ASA and Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA). State of the art equipment is used to prepare the jewelry appraisal.