Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, I work by appointment only.

We charge a fixed price per item. Valuations usually start at $100 and varies dependent on the intricacy. If you have multiple pieces you must set up an appointment for valuation.

Pricing is determined by the complexity of valuation. Pricing can range from a fixed quote per individual item to services by the hour, or may be for a contracted amount based on an estimate of the time involved.

Once JVL have viewed the item, and determined client needs, a clear quote and timeframe for collection will be provided.

Every valuation is for a specific purpose. If you want an insurance appraisal, you need to insure your jewellery for enough money to buy a replacement from the type of store you typically shop in. You do not want your Tiffany engagement ring replaced at Joe’s Pawn Shop.

If you need an estate appraisal, there are government regulations that specify the definition of value that must be used. There are many types of valuations and the purpose determines the definition of value.

I conform to professional standards that require all confidential information I receive in the course of an appraisal be kept private and not disclosed to third parties without your consent. The only exception is if disclosure is required by force of law.

NO! – The valuation process is done from a scientific approach, using the latest technology in testing equipment and procedures, current tabulations gems, and a firm knowledge of manufacture techniques used in antique, vintage, modern Jewellery, and imported and local jewellery construction.

• To prove ownership or to ensure of an item of jewellery or gemstone;
• To determine the market value of the jewellery you are considering buying or selling;
• To protect your family heirlooms and form a greater appreciation for them;
• To establish the authenticity of a precious piece of jewellery;
• To differentiate between two pieces of jewellery that look identical;
• Assist police with a description in the event of loss or theft.

In order to obtain the most accurate valuation of your item, you should only use a Registered Jewellery Valuer, with the National Council of Jewellery Valuers (NCJV). The jewellery valuation process can be quite technical and scientific and requires the valuer to accurately identify gemstones and metals, as well as provide a comprehensive description of their dimensions, weights, and quality.

This should be performed only by someone who has extensive product knowledge and has undergone formal training in gemology and diamond grading/technology.

An independent valuation is a valuation performed by a credentialled individual who is not engaged in buying or selling jewellery and has no stake in the grading or purchase price of a stone or article of jewellery. The appraisal is a document stating the approximate retail replacement value of an item. The replacement value is calculated by evaluating the cut, colour, clarity, and total carat weight of the gemstone(s), the weight of the metal and quality of the piece, and current market data. Your insurance company will use the appraisal to calculate a coverage rate for your gemstone or other jewellery.

• Valuations for many reasons, including;
• Retail replacement for insurance
• Estate Division
• Market value
• Probate
• Auction reserve
• Divorce settlements
• Private sale
• Technical

While Appraisal and Valuation are used interchangeably, they are not quite the same thing. Appraisals refer to the written opinion, assessment, and quantification of the piece of jewellery or gemstone. This includes evaluating properties such as weight, colour, clarity of a gemstone or diamond, weight and type of metal, or quality and workmanship. An appraisal can involve matters of opinion and therefore there may be slight variations between qualified jewellery valuers.

Valuation covers both Appraisal and Valuation, with valuation describing both the properties of the item and its financial value. Undertaking a valuation will provide you with a definitive value and establish a monetary worth for your item if you plan on insuring it. Without a correct appraisal, a proper valuation cannot be performed.

To keep your insurance coverage current, you may need to update your estimated retail replacement value on your valuation report every two years depending on your policy. Consult with your insurer to determine how often your valuation should be updated. We recommend that the original document be kept in a safe place. JVL will retain a permanent record of your report in secure our database filed under your report number. If your item has been registered, a permanent record has also been retained linked to your name and address and may be retrieved or updated without your report number. If your report does not have an estimated retail replacement value, please contact JVL for assistance. [Click here to update your report]

The insurance company will require some proof of ownership and evidence of the value of the item. Once the claim is accepted, the current value or values will be recalculated from the item description in your valuation. If your cover is for replacement, you will usually be issued with a voucher to purchase a new item. If your cover is for indemnity, the insurance company usually has the option of replacing or paying you the indemnity value in cash.

You are welcome to drop off your precious items for valuation or use our express service, but this service may incur additional fees.

We ask you to supply any previous appraisals, receipts, certificates, grading reports or other documentation, in order to note as much detail as possible. Your previous receipts and certificates contain the exact weights and details which are helpful in determining the value of your jewellery article. In addition, some lab certificates may even add to the value of your jewellery. We also scan all the previous documents and store it on our system.

Jewellery, gemstones, and diamonds should be revalued every two or three years to ensure that the valuation reflects the current market value. This may also depend on the supply and demand of your gemstone, however regularly updating your valuation will allow you to identify any wear and tear and to ensure that your items are able to be replaced in the event of loss of theft, if their market price increases.

Most insurance companies will require a current valuation certificate provided by an independent valuer before they are willing to establish cover that reflects true market value.

In order to issue an updated valuation, it is necessary for the item to be verified in our office. Please call us to arrange an appointment

Diamond and Gemstone certificates provide information relating to the properties of a stone, such as authenticity, quality, cut, carat, grade or rarity. Certificates also describe the shape, measurements, proportions, and polish and symmetry of the gemstone(s). They also measure any fluorescence and determine if the diamond is of natural origin or synthetic.

Third-party Certifications are useful for private buying and selling, insurance purposes, and appraisals, giving the consumer confidence and transparency in their purchases.

Diamond or gemstone certificates are particularly useful if you have purchased, or are considering buying, a diamond to be mounted in a piece of jewellery at a later date.

It should be noted that information provided in a certificate is only relevant to the diamond or gemstone in question. In addition, grading reports do not include a valuation, or a monetary value.

As a service to its clients, JVL can explain and interpret pre-existing diamond certification to determine the authenticity of a diamond report, and verify that it is for that specific diamond in question. Some online purchases come with their own valuation certificate, however, these should be viewed with caution. Third party certification ensures your diamond and gemstone is genuine, and not