Jewelry Appraisal Services
Sally O’Neill is a Graduate Gemologist (GIA-GG) from the Gemological Institute of America and a Certified Master Appraiser with the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA). These respected credentials reflect a high level of expertise, ethics, and professional training. Clients can feel confident in the accuracy and care with which their jewelry is evaluated.
Additionally, Sally has been designing, making, and selling jewelry—and collecting vintage and antique jewelry—for more than 40 years. In other words: she knows jewelry.
A thorough appraisal includes in-office examination and documentation, appropriate testing and measurement, market research using relevant comparables, and the writing of a clear, well-supported appraisal report. The appraiser’s responsibility is to present findings fairly and objectively, so you are fully informed.
Reviews: "I am very pleased with Sally's appraisal of my jewelry. She was thorough, knowledgeable and professional as well as prompt in getting the written appraisal report to me. As a bonus, she taught me much about the jewelry assessment process. I highly recommend Sally for jewelry appraisals". Anne M.
"We were referred to Sally through our favorite jeweler in Montana, Marina Kessler, as we had never had an appraisal done before. Upon meeting Sally in her fascinating studio we knew we had found someone we could trust. Her obvious passion for her work and her expertise in both appraising as well as educating was above and beyond our expectations. Her appraisal of one item was thorough and professional. The 'jewelry box evaluation' was such a fun way to get a general idea of my mother's cherished collection of memories. Sally is a gem!" "Thank you again" Laurie B.
Types and Reasons for Jewelry Appraisals
There are several types of jewelry appraisals, each requiring a specific market level and resulting in a different value conclusion, depending on the intended use.
There are many legitimate reasons to seek a formal appraisal, including insurance replacement, estate settlement, divorce or bankruptcy proceedings, purchase verification, or simply gaining a clear understanding of what you own in order to divide assets fairly among family members.
Insurance Replacement Appraisals
Any time you insure property, you may be required to provide proof of value in order to recover its monetary worth in the event of loss. The most common type of appraisal is the insurance replacement appraisal, prepared in case jewelry is lost, stolen, or damaged. These written appraisals are required by insurance companies and provide a detailed description of the item, including identification, condition, and replacement value.
It is recommended that clients check with their insurance company to determine coverage limits under an existing policy. This helps determine whether an appraisal is required and whether additional coverage may be advisable.
Fair Market Appraisals
Fair Market Value appraisals are most commonly required by courts for estate settlement or divorce purposes. They may also be appropriate for individuals who want to understand what price they might reasonably expect if selling an item to another member of the public.
Fair Market Value is defined as:
“The probable price at which a willing buyer and a willing seller would transact, neither being under compulsion to buy or sell, and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.”
These appraisals involve research and market comparisons within the appropriate secondary market.
Liquidation Appraisals
A liquidation appraisal provides an estimate of the immediate and reasonable cash value of property. This type of appraisal may be required by individuals, banks, estates, or trustees when assets must be converted to cash within a limited time frame.
Liquidation values are typically lower than other appraisal types, reflecting the reduced time and market exposure involved.
Retail Pricing Appraisals
Retail pricing appraisals are intended for retail jewelers who have acquired antique or estate jewelry and need accurate identification and pricing information.
These appraisals include analysis of:
- Period and style
- Materials and quality
-Condition
-Retail market positioning
The resulting value reflects an appropriate retail price, not insurance replacement or resale value.
OFFICIAL APPRAISAL PRICING
An official jewelry appraisal includes a complete written analysis and valuation of your property. When appropriate, the appraisal may also include diamond plotting (mapping of major diamonds). Photographs of each item are provided as part of the report.
You will receive an electronic PDF copy of the completed appraisal by email. And two official hard copies which may be picked up in person or mailed, depending on your preference.
The process begins with a take-in appointment, during which information is gathered about your jewelry items. You are welcome to be present and wait during this appointment. Please allow approximately one hour for this process. Afterward, you will take your jewelry with you.
The final appraisal report is typically completed within two weeks of the take-in appointment.
Appraisal Fees start at $200 per item.
Final pricing may vary based on the number of stones evaluated and the overall complexity of the item. You will receive an estimate before the appraisal process begins.
No Charge Offer to Purchase
If you are interested in selling your jewelry there is no charge or obligation if you wish to receive my offer.
Consultation Services and Pricing
All consultation services are $100 per hour, with a 30 minute minimum, unless otherwise specified.
Payment is required at time of service.
Accepted forms of payment include cash, check, Venmo, and credit card.
Please note: Specific monetary values are not provided during consultations, unless explicitly stated.
Pre-Appraisal Consultations
A pre-appraisal consultation allows time to review your jewelry and determine whether a formal written appraisal is warranted.
The first 30 minutes are complimentary
After 30 minutes, the hourly consultation fee applies
If an appraisal is recommended, you will be provided with a cost estimateat that time
This service is ideal if you are unsure whether an appraisal is necessary.
Identifying Gemstones
This consultation provides identification and descriptive information for gemstones.
You will receive:
A written description of each stone
Measurements and gem identification
This service does notinclude a monetary value
Jewelry Evaluation (Informational Only)
$100 per hour, 30 minute minimum. A jewelry evaluation is an informational document, often provided by the original jewelry store where a piece was purchased. It is not a formal appraisal and is not intended for insurance replacement purposes.
With this service, you will receive a 1–2 page written document that may include:
- Identification of stones and metal
- Purchase price and date of purchase (if provided)
- Photographs
- Information about the jewelry artist and/or original store (when available)
- No market-based or insurance value is assigned
Jewelry Box Evaluation
Do you have a jewelry box full of pieces and aren’t sure what you have or what to do with them? A Jewelry Box Evaluation may be the right place to start.
During this consultation:
· Jewelry is examined and tested for diamonds, pearls, and metals
· Items are grouped into practical categories such as:
o Antique
o Modern
o Keep
o Gift
o Give away
o Repurpose
If any items merit a formal appraisal, you will be provided with a cost estimate for that service.
What you will receive:
- A clear understanding of what you have
- Guidance on next step
What is not included:
- No written report
- No photographs
- No monetary values
This service is performed while you wait, and your jewelry remains in your presence at all times.
