Valuing a Crazed Opal
Although the assignment discussed here involves a cracked or crazed opal, the methodology is similar for any damaged gemstone. The appraiser only has what is in front of them, and if it is a damaged…
News ArchiveDuo Valuation of an Unusual Ruby
The use of pricing adjustments is relatively common, especially when the appraiser is using the cost approach. However, in assignments where the subject property falls outside of the core range of trading for that variety…
News ArchiveThe Appraisers Notebook – After the Appraisal
The appraisal is complete. The proper terms and limiting conditions are given including restricted use for insurance only. And then it happens. Your appraisal shows up on an internet site with an offer to sell…
News ArchiveLab Diamond Grading Differences
Lab grading differences are becoming a hot industry issue. The differences in grades from one lab to another are problematic. Consumers are being deceived into thinking that they are buying a diamond with higher grades…
News ArchiveHow to Grade Clarity-Enhanced Diamonds
As more companies entered into this technology, known as fracture-filling, or clarity enhanced (CE), the door became wide-open for vendors to assign the clarity grade of their choosing. While we at Northwest Gemological Laboratory have…
News ArchiveValuing Large/High Value Diamonds for Insurance
Like many of our Appraiser’s Notebook stories,This too was inspired by a true story. What it illustrates is the special considerations that must be accounted for with large, rare diamonds when valuing for insurance. Several months…
News ArchiveWatches: Fake & Genuine – How to Appraise from the Insurer’s Perspective
Gemologists are trained and experienced in recognizing gems, treatments, synthetics, and outright fakes in gems and jewelry, but detecting fake watches is a different challenge altogether. Furthermore, when a watch is determined to be genuine…
News ArchiveValuing Large Gems with the GemGuide
One area of misuse of the GemGuide is in pricing large gemstones beyond the largest weights listed. This can occur with any variety of gemstone and it is critical to understand what happens in the…
News ArchiveAppraising in the Tourist Market
The tourist market is its own market with very different behaviors when it comes to jewelry. Is it a rip-off or just a market where higher prices can be expected? Is buyer's remorse a reason…
News ArchiveAppraisal Forum Tucson 2012
In Tucson, an appraisal forum was held, developed and sponsored by the California Institute of Jewelry Training and Master Valuer International. The concept was to invite a panel of appraisal experts to discuss appraisal issues…
News Archive