At GemLehr, your appraisal is performed according to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), National Association of Jewelry Appraisers NAJA.
Reports can be provided and help establish value for a variety of purposes including insurance, estate, divorced property settlement, forced sale, private sale, equitable distribution and more.
The appraisal is typically completed and emailed to you within 48 hours for 1 to 2 items of jewelry. If additional research time is needed, you will be notified. Your items go home with you at the end of the appointment unless you request otherwise.
For larger groups of items, multiple appointments can be scheduled where you can sit with the jewelry or, upon your request, jewelry can be left with appraiser and the appraisal will be completed in a timely manner. If items are left for appraisal, you will be provided with a digital photo receipt detailing the items.
- Gemstones are identified, graded, measured, and their weights calculated by formula.
- Metal content is determined/estimated by touch stone and acids; no assay is performed as this is a destructive test.
- All diamonds are described with weight, shape, color, clarity. Diamonds over 0.60 carat are plotted/mapped and further details regarding proportions are included.
- Pearls are identified, graded and measured.
- Watches are described with brand, model, movement, & metal, with further details when appropriate.
- Your appraisal includes enlarged digital color photos of the items imbedded into the report.
- Photomicrographs (photos through the microscope) are available if needed for insurance claims, etc.
- The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) diamond and colored stone grading systems are used for the appraisal.
- An explanation of the definition of value is included, along with the instructions for the appropriate use of the appraisal document.
- On site or in vault appraisals are not performed by this appraiser, due to lack of good lighting and available space needed for delicate lab equipment it is not in the client’s best interest to pay a premium for an inferior/compromised appraisal.
Please feel free to email Susan, Gemologist Appraiser, if you have any questions.