Db Appraisals is located within The Wooden Jewel boutique in the Sunriver Plaza and provides appointment-only certified jewelry appraisal services for insurance, estate, and resale-related needs. Most appraisals can be completed while you wait or by the end of the day. Prices are per item and start at $155 for the first item and $125 for the second item.
To clarify the difference between insurance and estate-related appraisals, insurance appraisals are typically based on the retail replacement value of a new item. Estate appraisals may use Fair Market Value, especially when the purpose is to estimate the possible resale value of an item in the secondary retail market. The appropriate valuation depends on the purpose of the appraisal and the intended use of the report. Secondary markets can include platforms such as eBay, Etsy, and Amazon, as well as auction houses such as Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Heritage Auctions. These values are often at opposite ends of the spectrum. This distinction will be explored further in a future newsletter.
A certified jewelry appraisal involves more than weighing and testing metal or examining a stone with a gem loupe; it is supported by a system of science and professional expertise. Most insurance companies today prefer a certified gemologist appraiser to evaluate items that need to be insured because these professionals are trained to identify gems, weigh stones, and assess other important attributes. Jewelry appraisals are, in large part, estimates of value based on the science of evaluating mounted gemstones, supported by professional experience. Mountings can obscure details, influence color, create shadows, and collect dirt. The appraiser’s role is to get as close as possible to the true weights, measurements, and attributes of each piece, even when challenges are present. Professional training and experience help appraisers work through those challenges.
Experience can come in many forms. Some appraisers have a background in retail jewelry, some have experience working in pawn shops, and others begin from the ground up. Regardless of background, formal education from an accredited school of gemology is essential. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is considered a leading authority in gemology, and other well-known schools, such as IGS and AGS, also provide strong gemological education.
When selecting a jewelry appraiser, look for someone with formal gemological training from an accredited school, along with practical experience. With today’s metal markets rising sharply, it is a good time to have your jewelry pieces appraised.
Db Appraisals and The Wooden Jewel are located at 56880 Venture Lane # 101 N in the Sunriver Business Park. Call 541-390-0830 for additional information.
Wooden Jewel boutique hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 am to 5 pm
Db Appraisal hours: By Appointment only