What is an appraisal?

It is easier to state what an appraisal is not:

• It is not proof of purchase only a receipt can do this.
• It is not proof of ownership.
• It is not what you paid for the item usually.

For insurance appraisals

• It is the amount you are paying for in insurance premiums
• It is a verification of the item to be insured.

Getting an Appraisal from a Specialist

A specialist in antique appraisals takes into consideration that antique jewellery cannot be replaced in today’s market. Therefore, the value based on estimated costs to replace the item in newly manufactured condition would not be appropriate. The value estimations for antique jewellery must be a reflection of the sum to replace an item of similar condition, motif and degree of workmanship, subject to the availability of a like article in the current marketplace.

On occasion, appraisal of antique jewellery may be undertaken by a specialist to authenticate an item. Research for authentication includes provenance, attribution and identification.

Always ask if the appraiser is familiar with the item. Appraisal codes of ethics state that appraisers should not accept items with which they are unfamiliar.

Why Do You Get Items Appraised?

Retail Replacement Appraisal for:

• Insurance
• Comparison
• Hypothetical
• Damage

Fair Market Value Appraisal for:

• Estate
• Divorce
• Probate
• Donation
• Auction
• Collateral
• Casualty Loss (IRS)

Liquidation Appraisal for:

• Wholesale
• Scrap