Why get an appraisal?
So you know how much your
jewelry is really worth?
Have you ever lost an uninsured item, damaged
or stolen and had to pay out of pocket to replace it? This is the most common reason for getting an appraisal. There are however,
several other reasons why it makes sense to have you jewelry and sterling silver flatware appraised.
Internet Purchases
Internet purchases are becoming more common and an appraisal
can verify that diamonds (or other jewelry) purchased off the Internet, match the certification or appraisal that accompany
the item.
Settling an Estate/Equitable Distribution
Any
taxable estate must have the valuables documented for the IRS. Even if the estate is not taxable it is worthwhile to know
what you have to distribute to the heirs of the estate.
Fluctuations in
Market Value
Platinum, Gold and Silver, Diamond and Gemstone values fluctuate. These fluctuations are due
to such things as supply and demand, the economy, new mining finds and mines that have been exhausted.
Dissolution of Marriage
An attorney may request an appraisal when working
with a client going through dissolution of marriage to obtain the fair market value of the assets.
Tax Deductible Charitable Contributions
If you make a tax deductible contribution
of gems or jewelry in excess of $500.00, the IRS requires verification of value in the form of an appraisal.
Just Curious?
Maybe you just want to find out if grandma's old "ruby"
ring is really a natural ruby.
Appraisal Process
Upon
take in of the item(s), we check for any loose, chipped or broken stones, inspect the mounting condition and clean the item,
(when applicable).
After the cleaning, a complete process of the appraisal begins, each
stone is identified, measured, checked for color, clarity and proportions. The metal content of the piece is tested, the measurements
of the item as well as a complete detailed description are given, and photographs are taken of the piece(s). Once all the
information is compiled, we then process the typed document with digital photograph(s). You also receive an extra copy of
the report.
Types of Values
Retail
Replacement Value (New/Comparable)-Full retail value, not a sale or discounted value, that you may replace the
item with a new equivalent or substitute.
Replacement Value Comparable-Value
placed on the item at a sale or discount replacement value in the local market that you may replace the item with another
with a similar age, quality origin appearance and condition.
Fair Market
Value-The value that is at which the property would change hands between a willing buyer and seller, neither
being under and compulsion to by or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.
Estate/Orderly Liquidation Value-Most probable value in terms of cash for which the items
would change hands within a short amount of time usually within a 3 to 6 month resale.
Estate/Forced
Liquidation Value-Most probably value in terms of cash for which the items would change hands for immediate sale
of items without regard to relevant market place.
List of Credentials for Mona
Miller
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Ms. Miller, the owner of Pacific Gemological Laboratories, has been actively involved in the jewelry trade
since 1980. She is completely certified and is qualified by successfully completing all yearly examinations given by her profession
to test her knowledge and by a number of years of upstanding service in the industry.
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Graduate Gemologist -In Residence Degree Gemological Institute of America (G.I.A.)
G.I.A. - Charter Member of Alumni
Graduate Retail Management -In Residence Degree Gemological
Institute of America
Master Gemologist Appraiser - American Society of Appraisers (ASA)
Fellow - Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA)
Associations:
1985-Present: Accredited Gemologist Association (AGA) - Accredited Senior Gemologist; Regional
Governor 1991-1993
1985-Present: National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) Senior Member
1989-Present: American Society of Appraisers (ASA) Senior Member
1994,
2001 & 2008: Who's Who for Executives and Professionals
Jewelers Viligence Committee (JVC) -
Member in good standing
American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) - Member in good standing
American Gem Society (AGS - ICGA) - Independent Certified Gemologist Apppraiser and Laboratory.
Current Positions held: ASA Education Foundation Director, ASA International Education Chair - Gems
& Jewelry.
Served as an Expert Witness in Court Appearances for Dissolution,
Theft, Fraud, Estate distribution and Bankruptcy cases. Civil to Supreme court qualified.