Jewelry Appraisal Process
Preparing an appraisal is a five step process. Below is a summary of each step.
Preparation
Please bring all previous appraisals, laboratory reports, sales receipts and other descriptive documents with the items you wish to have appraised to be reviewed after laboratory inspection. Actual weights and laboratory reports are verified and recorded in your completed appraisal report. Extraordinary discrepancies are discussed with you prior to completing your appraisal.
Take-In
Preliminary appraisal report information is obtained and the purpose and intended use of the report established. The appraisal purpose and use will determine the market price level reflected in the report and in some cases the detail level reflected in the completed appraisal.. Your jewelry is then carefully cleaned (antique, worn or damaged items may not be cleaned). An estimated fee is quoted and estimated completion date determined.
Laboratory Inspection
Detailed quality and condition information is determined and recorded for each item of jewelry (for example, the gemstone measurements, proportions, quality and identifying information and the mounting's metal, condition and style.) Prior documentation provided by the client is then reviewed and each item photographed.
Laboratory inspection takes approximately 30 minutes for each item. Items of complicated design or containing unusual gemstones may require additional inspection time. Please allow at least one and one half hour laboratory time for three pieces of jewelry.
Your jewelry is returned to you after the laboratory inspection.
Research and Valuation
Value elements are analyzed and research methods determined. Pricing information and comparable sales are researched. Values are then placed on each item based on the purpose and intended use of the report established during the take-in step.
Report Generation
Detailed descriptions, valuations, photographs and supporting documentation are compiled into a comprehensive appraisal document. The bound document, along with a copy, is mailed to you typically within 10 working days after the inspection date.
C.M. Woolford and Associates adhere to a strict code of ethics.
All appraisal information is confidential. All values are arrived at independently.
Nina's reports are written to the gems and jewelry report writing standards of the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) and the American Society of Appraisers (ASA). These standards incorporate the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) as a minimum report writing requirement.