When someone is buying new jewelry, she will often want to have an appraisal done, as it can give her a value for the jewelry, which she can then use when she is buying insurance. Getting an appraisal before buying can also ensure they are not overspending on the items before they buy. However, in some cases, people might not be buying new jewelry at all. She might want to buy older vintage and antique jewelry instead. This can sometimes be more difficult to have antique jewelry appraisal simply because finding someone who knows about the older jewelry and Appraising Vintage Jewelry .
Starting the Journey on Your Own: Appraising Vintage Jewelry
When trying to find the value of the jewelry you buy, you might have to begin on your own. Look over the jewelry and look for marks on it. Look at the scratches and imperfections and make note of them, but also look for any marks that might identify the jewelry maker. It could be a full name or a simple mark. Make note of that as well. Take photos of the jewelry from various angles as well, and make sure you have some close up, clear shots of the pieces.
Finding an Expert
Once you have the photos and as much information about the jewelry as you could find, you can begin looking for an expert. Look for names of appraisers in your area, as well as online appraisers. Research the companies and make sure that they have a good reputation and that they are actually experts in the field. For those who are in your area, you can contact them and set up an appointment. Ask them if they want you to send over digital copies of the photos so they can see the piece.
You do not have to work only with those in your area though. Since you have the digital photos of the jewelry, you can find some experts who can look at the photos and who can give you an appraisal.
Two or More Appraisers
When you are having older jewelry appraised, you might want to have two or more appraisers look it over, just so you can get a good and honest assessment. The values should be close, but each expert may have a slightly different opinion. Having at least two appraisals should give you a better idea of the actual value, which can be helpful if you hope to sell the piece.