| Frequently Asked Questions |
Q: Why do I need an appraisal for my jewelry?
A: The main reason people appraise their jewelry for insurance purposes.
Q: Can I use the appraisal that came with my jewelry purchase?
A: Quite often the selling jeweler embellishes or inflates the value of the item to make you feel as if you got a bargain. Since insurance premiums are based on the appraised value, your rates might be unreasonably high.
Q: Do you have to remove the diamonds or gems from the jewelry to appraise them?
A: No. Rarely is it necessary to remove the gemstone from the jewelry to make the appraisal. We use specialized mathmatical formula's to estimate the gem weight which is usuallly accurate within .05 ct.
Q: Does it take a long time to have an appraisal?
A: It depends largely on the type of jewelry being appraised. Complicated jewelry items such as antiques with many gemstones, or unique watches, for example, can take longer whereas simple jewelry such as a gold chain is faster.
Q: What does a Certified Jewelry Appraisal include?
A: All insurance appraisals include detailed measurements, weights, gem identification and grading, photography, and a plot of all major diamonds.
Q: Do I have to use my homeowners policy or can I just insure my jewelry?
A: You can insure your jewelry with Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company. J.M. only insures jewelry stores and personal jewelry. The rates are the same as your homeowners policy, but it's good to keep them seperate in case of a claim.
Q: How long is my appraisal good for?
A: Because of the ever changing prices of precious metals and gemstones, your appraisal should updated every 3 years.
Q: Are there differences between appraisers?
A: Anyone can call themselves a jewelry appraiser. Unfortunately, many so called appraisers have little or no gemological or appraisal training whatsoever. The result is an appraisal that usually is incomplete, inacurate, and/or unacceptable to most insurance companies. If the insurance company does accept this type of appraisal, and it's not correct, you will be the one who looses out if you have a loss, theft, or damage. Ask the appraiser if he or she is trained by G.I.A. or A.G.S., and to what extent.
Q: Should you come to me or should I come to you?
A: Usually I provide a service to you in your home or office. However, if you wish, we can make arrangements for you to bring your items to me.
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