First, the jewelry appraiser can identify your jewelry as to the material, quality, workmanship, condition and other characteristics that influence the item's value. For example, diamonds that appear similar to the eye can vary in terms of color, clarity, cut, fluorescence, measurements and durability. These are all factors that uniquely identify one diamond from another and can cause the value of one stone to be more than double that of another even if they are identical to the unaided eye.

Second, the jewelry appraiser can estimate the value of the jewelry item. The definition of value can vary depending on the purpose of the appraisal. For example, an appraisal value could be quite different if the purpose is 1) selling the item, 2) purchasing an item from a retailer, 3) insuring the item after purchase, 4) settling an estate, 5) distributing property in a divorce, or as an expert witness in a lawsuit.

Third, the jewelry appraiser is a witness to the existence of the property. This is important in the process of filing an insurance claim for the loss of an item where proof might be required that the jewelry existed at a certain point in time and was in a certain condition. This is why an appraiser should insist on examining the jewelry item when updating an insurance appraisal.

Fourth, the jewelry appraiser can provide advice as to the durability, wearability, and repair of jewelry items. Jewelry made of metal and gemstones can vary greatly in their hardness, toughness, and resistance to heat or chemicals. Because the appraiser has professional training (i.e. Graduate Gemologist) and is not involved in the sale of the item, they can provide unbiased recommendations based on their experience.

Professional jewelry appraisers set their fees based on an hourly rate or a per item basis, never as a percentage of appraised value. Appraisers who are efficient and highly computerized can often provide lower prices for services than those performing the same task but take twice as long to perform them. All too often the only question a consumer knows to ask when seeking a jewelry appraiser is: "How much do you charge?" The question that should be asked is: "What are your qualifications to appraise my jewelry?"

If your jewelry appraisal is going to be used for insurance purposes, keep in mind that it is the quality of the appraisal and the qualifications of the appraiser that are going to provide validity if you ever have to file an insurance claim. Most consumers do not realize how bad their appraisal is until they file a claim and then it is too late. Protect yourself by using the services of a professional appraiser to ensure your valuable and sentimental jewelry items are properly protected.