What Is an Ivory Tower Worth? Part 1
The first of a two-part series looks at the important factors in defining ivory and the international and U.S. federal laws surrounding the import and export of ivory.
The Appraiser's NotebookValuation Time Capsules
How long should a gemologist-appraiser’s notes be kept? GemGuide dives into legal examples of preservation length as well as ownership and storage guidelines.
The Appraiser's NotebookBetween a Rock and a Hard Place
When multiple parties claim to be the rightful owners of a piece of property, there’s a solution that lets the court work it out, and it’s called an interpleader.
The Appraiser's NotebookThe Game of Battleships
Everyone would say gemologist-appraisers must avoid charging percentage-of-value-based fees. But within the appraisal world, the topic isn’t without its interesting exceptions.
The Appraiser's NotebookGemstone Cosmetics
Gemstones that are naturally beautiful may need some cosmetics, called enhancements, to embellish them. Regardless of the amount, disclosure is key.
The Appraiser's NotebookSelf-Insufficiency
Appraisers that undervalue an estate can be subject to fines by the Internal Revenue Service.
*Free Featured ArticlesUp A Valuation Sleeve
One obvious misdirection occurs when someone offers free appraisals that are really offers to buy. An offer to buy is not an appraisal.
The Appraiser's NotebookCircling the Drain
“The lay litigant enters a temple of mysteries whose ceremonies are dark, complex, and unfathomable. Pretrial procedures are the cabalistic rituals of the lawyers and judges who serve as priests and high priests. The layman…
The Appraiser's NotebookSecret Valuation Service
After months of intense work, under the burden of a top-secret clearance, a cryptanalyst 1 breaks an encryption. However, based on the maximum of “the need-to-know,” he is not allowed to read any intercepted secret…
The Appraiser's Notebook