13. What do appraisals cost?
Estate and other research appraisals are based on an hourly fee. Insurance replacement appraisals are based on a per item fee, with discounts given for additional pieces. In an assignment of a dozen or more pieces of jewelry, it may be more economical for the client to be charged by the hour rather than by the piece.
Remember -- it is unethical for an appraiser to charge a fee based on a percentage of the item’s value. The IRS and numerous appraisal organizations concur.
When you hire a jewelry appraiser, you are seeking professional advice. As in the saying, “You get what you pay for,” you should choose an appraiser on the basis of experience, not price. Fees take into account professional training, laboratory equipment, subscriptions, books and other reference materials, other business overhead, and time. Anything less than a professional appraisal document will not stand up to scrutiny in court, or protect you when filing a claim.
Please call to inquire about current appraisal fees.
