The System | The Qualified Appraiser

Appraisals

While there are many different types of appraisals (everything from determining the value for museum donations to customs appraisals), most generally fall into two categories: Insurance Appraisals and Estate Appraisals. These are two very different procedures, so the value placed on the item will vary for each. These appraisals are issued for exclusive purpose and should not be used interchangeably. NOTE: Unless stated, the jeweler may not be making an offer to buy.

Knowing which type of appraisal is needed ensures that if a loss occurs, one has prepared themselves as best as one can. Whether your appraisal needs are for gems or jewelry, here at MJ Harrington and Co. we adhere to these guidelines:

Insurance Appraisals

"An insurance appraisal should provide the customer with a value that will assure a replacement of equal quality and value. If the item is irreplaceable, at least the person is guaranteed adequate funds to purchase a comparable item."

"For very important and valuable items, the customer and insurance company should negotiate value. this value will be one that the insurance company is willing to accept as a risk and that the customer accepts, considering the premium involved."

Estate Appraisals

"An estate appraisal is based on fair market value, that is, the price an item can bring from a willing buyer and seller without a forced sale and where time is not of the essence."

Determining the value of an item requires the skill of a trained professional. On staff, we have a Certified Gemologist Appraiser and Registered Jewelers of the American Gem Society, all willing to be as helpful and informative as they possibly can!