Why Get an Appraisal?
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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-Smith
1982: Graduate Gemologist -In Residence Degree Gemological Institute of America (G.I.A.)
G.I.A. - Charter Member of Alumni
1983: Graduate Retail Management -In Residence Degree Gemological Institute of America 1990: Master Gemologist Appraiser - American Society of Appraisers (ASA) Associations: 1985-Present: Accredited Gemologist Association (AGA) - Accredited Senior Gemologist; Regional
Governor 1991-1993 American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) - Member in good standing 2006 - Present: ASA Education Foundation Director, Board of Governors - Disipline Governor, International Budget/ Finance & Education commitee member. Served as an Expert Witness in Court Appearances for Dissolution, Theft, Fraud, Estate distribution and Bankruptcy cases. Civil to Supreme court qualified.
 
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