Common Appraisal & Estate Consultation Questions

Loose AAAA quality blue-purple tanzanite gemstones

  • Prior to your appointment, please gather and have available any previous records about your item such as: receipts of purchase, former appraisals or warranties. Other documents such as grading reports from laboratories such as GIA, EGL or AGS are also important.

    If you have items that need extra attention (such as deep cleaning or needed repair), Gemworks Fine Jewelers can assist in providing these services for you. Basic cleaning can be done in-office and all repair work is performed quickly and to the highest standards by JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler, Nic Brotherton.

  • By providing any existing records you help ensure your appraisal is the most accurate document it can possibly be. Being able to confirm and reference any relevant laboratory reports can add value and additional credibility to your appraisal.

  • Gemworks Fine Jewelers has expertise in appraising and consulting the following: gemstones, diamonds, jewelry, coins placed in jewelry and most watches.

    • Crystal

    • Flatware

    • Decorative Knives or Guns

    • Collectible Coins (Coins with Numismatic Value)

    • Uncut Gems and Rock Specimens

    • Pewterware

    • China and Serving Ware (Sterling Silverware Sets)

  • All appraisals performed by Gemworks Fine Jewelers contain the accurate and relevant information to fully document your items. This means that the metal/s are measured, described and weighed, stones are counted, measured and graded, manufacturing technique and condition is considered, age and design motif researched and noted and photograph records are included. Stone grades are assigned using Gemological Institute of America’s universal nomenclature.

  • Following, or at the completion of your appointment, you will receive a complete digital copy of your documentation as well as a hard copy that will be mailed out to you.

    Any information discovered, given or prepared is kept strictly confidential, as is all of your personal information. Only at your written request - or by the force of the law - can such information be disclosed to any party other than yourself.

  • Written documentation (for insurance or for estate purposes) are charged at a per item rate, starting at $125 for the first item. The rate per item is discounted the more items that are being evaluated at one time. Complex items - and some watches, will cost more and will be quoted for approval prior to any work being done. Typically, to allow for timely turn around in delivering you your report - and to be respectful of your time - one to five items per appointment is recommended.

    Consultation services are charged per hour of time provided, with a one hour of service minimum charge. The starting rate for consultation services is $95 per hour. Thereafter, charges can be billed by the half-hour as needed.