Appraising an Aftermarket Rolex: A Case Study in Managing the Client and Appraiser Obligations
A simple Rolex watch can be an easy assignment once authenticated, by simply looking up the replacement value.
The Appraiser's NotebookCopyright is Not a Right to Copy
An honest, upscale jeweler sends his appraiser friend the most recent password for accessing the GemGuide online. Not a big deal he thinks, as he has experienced numerous occasions with customers having copies of price…
News ArchiveMaking the Mark
The practice of appraising has been exploding for more than 20 years, spurred by a small but aggressive group of trained valuators determined to make appraising a true profession. Seemingly, books have been published overnight…
News ArchiveRiding the C-Saw
Lets face it - most diamonds are sold based on a laboratory report. Ask the appraisal customer if they were told the color and clarity grade (and sometimes the cut grade), were based on the…
News ArchiveRings Engaged to be Married
High Priest with a Torch If a goldsmith, without even the benefit of a ceremony, marries an engagement ring to a wedding band, this priestly act leaves appraisers little choice but to value them as one…
News ArchiveAppraising “Branded” Gemstones
A recent appraisal assignment on a branded loose gem- stone, developed into a challenge in determining a fair retail price. The story starts as many do. The client purchased a gem on a cruise, took…
News ArchiveThe Web Bests the Rest
No way. Not in a million years will the Yellow Pages no longer be the mainstay of appraisers promotional efforts. Welcome to the future. Lets face it. Appraisers do not have unlimited budgets for advertising…
News ArchiveInstruments
Im So Confused Such a simple thing, yet it turns out to be somewhat complicated and controversial. At times it is a one-size- fits-all list of all the instruments the appraiser has in his or her…
News ArchiveHigh Marks
So, you've always dreamed of owning an authentic Lalique plique jour enameled dragonfly brooch with opal hind wings and eyes of demantoid garnets. In this desire you are not alone. It is classic jewelry at…
News ArchiveWhat a Revolting Idea- a Cover Letter
During the 1980s, a revolution swept through the jewelry appraisal profession and the cover letter became standard appraisal practice. It seemed that every course, seminar and book endorsed the use of a cover letter. Now there…
News Archive