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Jewelry Appraisals

Get a precise jewelry appraisal from our expert appraisers at Washington Diamond, conveniently located in the Washington, DC Region

Understand The Importance of Jewelry Appraisals


Whether you're buying new, inherited, or second-hand jewelry, a jewelry appraisal is essential to make informed decisions and protect your investment. A jewelry appraisal is more than just a document; it's a gateway to understanding the true worth and unique characteristics of your precious pieces. Crafted by experienced appraisers, this comprehensive report reveals the intricate details, quality, and materials of your jewelry while assigning it a monetary value.

Appraisers come with varying levels of expertise. From seasoned professionals with extensive knowledge of diamonds and jewelry, possessing GIA qualifications and specialized experience, to those with solid retail jewelry backgrounds. Some even specialize in vintage jewelry, offering niche expertise.

To ensure accuracy and credibility, it's crucial to choose an appraiser with the right blend of experience and specialist knowledge. The appraisal document, crafted by the appraiser, includes essential information such as jewelry specifications, value, date of appraisal, and the certified appraiser's signature, lending it validity and authenticity.

4 Key Reasons Why Obtaining a Jewelry Appraisal is Essential:

1. Insurance

Appraisals are essential for securing proper insurance coverage for your valuable jewelry. The appraisal report acts as evidence of the item's worth, enabling you to obtain comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

2. Resale or Estate Planning

When considering selling or passing down your jewelry, an accurate appraisal provides valuable information for pricing and documentation. It helps you make informed decisions about the value and disposition of your cherished pieces.

3. Verification

Appraisals serve as a means of verifying the authenticity and quality of your jewelry. It provides a detailed record of hallmarks, weight, and other identifiers, ensuring transparency and protecting you from counterfeit or misrepresented items.

4. Personal Knowledge

A jewelry appraisal allows you to delve into the unique characteristics and craftsmanship of your jewelry. By understanding its worth and properties, you develop a deeper connection with your pieces, appreciating their beauty and significance.

Washington Diamond Jewelry Appraisal

Trust our team of highly skilled and qualified appraisers to guide you seamlessly through the jewelry appraisal process.
With a reliable and comprehensive appraisal document in hand, you can confidently protect your valuable investment.

Choose Washington Diamond for professional diamond jewelry appraisal services you can rely on. Contact our store at 703-536-3600 for more details.

Types of Jewelry Appraisals

Fair Market Value


The fair market value is a figure given based on the current retail value of the jewelry.

Liquidation Value


This is a value given if the owner wishes to find an immediate buyer. These values are usually significantly less than the fair market value.

Jewelry Appraisal For Insurance Coverage

When it comes to protecting your valuable jewelry investment, an accurate appraisal is essential for insurance purposes. While sentimental value is priceless, insuring your jewelry guards against potential loss. Insurance companies require a reliable appraisal to establish the true value of your items. Proof of purchase alone may not suffice, as insurers base coverage on realistic replacement costs.

In the event of a claim, insurers may request proof of value. An up-to-date appraisal serves as crucial documentation, verifying ownership and substantiating the value of your jewelry. With a comprehensive appraisal, you can confidently settle your claim and ensure proper compensation.

It's important to note that the value of your jewelry may have appreciated over time. We understand the significance of protecting your precious jewelry investment. Contact us today for a consultation and keep your jewelry safeguarded with the right appraisal.

Jewelry Appraisal for Inherited and Heirloom Jewelry

Fine jewelry carries an enduring charm, encapsulating pivotal life moments and the cherished dream of passing it on. Over time, the origin and history of inherited jewelry might fade. That's where an expert appraiser steps in.

An appraisal of your heirloom jewelry offers a detailed snapshot, covering gemstones, metals, and valuation. Even if selling isn't on your horizon, an appraisal acts as a vital guide to trace and secure the essence and emotional value of your precious keepsake.

Alternatively, you can appraise your jewelry before handing it down. This ensures your loved ones understand its unique attributes and significance. Through an appraisal, you actively preserve and enrich your family's legacy.

Uphold your family heirlooms and honor your treasured pieces with a trusted appraisal service.

Jewelry Appraisal vs. Diamond Certificate

It's important not to confuse a jewelry or diamond appraisal with a diamond certificate or grading report. While a diamond certificate is issued by a reputable gem lab and provides detailed information about the diamond's characteristics, it does not assign a specific value to the diamond. A diamond certificate involves meticulous testing by expert gemologists to accurately outline the precise details of the diamond.

On the other hand, a jewelry appraisal assesses the overall value of the piece, taking into account factors such as craftsmanship, design, and market conditions. If you're seeking an appraisal for jewelry that includes a certified diamond, having the diamond report from a respected gem lab, such as GIA, can be beneficial. It provides additional information that aids in the appraisal process.

Discover more about the significance of GIA Diamond Certification and how it complements the jewelry appraisal process.

Diamond Ring Appraisals

Engagement and diamond ring appraisals are vital for protecting your investment and ensuring you've made a fair purchase. With the emotional and financial significance attached to your precious rings, it's essential to understand their value.

At Washington Diamond, we recognize the significance of a diamond ring appraisal. Whether it's to commemorate an engagement or another significant milestone, our dedicated team is here to provide expert guidance throughout the appraisal process. Trust us to protect your precious investment with care and professionalism.

Commonly Asked Questions


There are some websites which offer a jewelry appraisal online, meaning they will not see the jewelry ‘in the flesh’. Even with good photographs and a detailed description of the jewelry, an accurate appraisal needs an expert eye. The jewelry should be examined under a jewelers’ loupe, noting hallmarks and diamond quality. You can certainly start an enquiry for a jewelry appraisal online, but ultimately a skilled appraiser needs to see the jewelry to give an accurate idea of the value.

The average cost of a jewelry appraisal is between $150 to $300. Some appraisers will charge a rate based on the percentage of the jewelry’s value. When it comes to assessing the cost of an appraisal, the most important factor is the skill and experience of the person or persons appraising it. A very cheap jewelry appraisal may seem like a good deal, though that may be an indicator of an inexperienced or less scrutinous appraisal.