Scott using his microscope — I specialize in the value of your jewelry.
Identified, valued, and documented with care for a jewelry appraisal you can and will believe in.

Do you need to insure your jewelry, liquidate it, distribute it among family members, or determine your estate tax liability? I provide professional appraisals for these and other needs.

Scott at desk with couple holding ring — Oral Appraisals

**$90 per half-hour**
Many people use oral appraisals to decide how to distribute jewelry among heirs or to choose which items need written reports for insurance coverage. In most cases, I identify, research, and value your jewelry while you wait, and then we discuss the results.
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Diamond bridal set with gem equipment — Written Appraisals

$120 per hour/$240 minimum*
This service provides complete documentation when you need to insure your jewelry. The time required depends on the number and complexity of your items. Before you decide to leave your items (usually about one week), I set the maximum fee.
**(*base rate for insurance assignments)**
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Scott at desk louping a ring with client — Broker’s Price Opinions

**$75 per half-hour**
The Broker’s Price Opinion tells you how much I expect to sell your jewelry for and specifies my commission. I also suggest other selling options for you to consider. It is an oral opinion only and is done while you wait. If we agree that I sell your jewelry, I may waive some or all of this fee.
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“Scott was incredibly helpful at identifying and providing me information regarding an antique locket. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable, but also very friendly and enjoyable to work with. Scott provides you with the needed information to make informed and empowered decisions about your jewelry. I would absolutely recommend his services!”

- autumn browning

Scott Gordon’s Qualifications and Memberships

Graduate Gemologist diploma, Gemological Institute of America, awarded in 1981.
Fellowship Diploma, Gemmological Association of Great Britain, awarded in 1988.
Accredited Senior Appraiser, American Society of Appraisers, accredited in 1990, renewed in 2021.
Master Gemologist Appraiser®, American Society of Appraisers, certified in 1991, renewed in 2021.
Accredited Senior Gemologist, Accredited Gemologists Association, accepted in 1998.
Member, National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, granted in 2006.
Member, Personal Property Resources Panel, The Appraisal Foundation, 2020-2022.
Member, Jewelers of America, joined in 1991.

Questions I’m often asked

Why do I have to leave my jewelry for a written appraisal report?

Producing a professional document takes time. I clean your jewelry, take measurements, and estimate stone weights. I test and study it to judge its quality and condition. I research its market value. I describe it carefully in writing and photograph it as I assemble the final report.

What if I’m not sure about insuring my jewelry?

I suggest starting with an oral appraisal to see if your items are worth more than the minimum amount you decide to insure. Then, you will know if they’re already covered under your homeowner’s policy or if you should cover them with a separate policy.

How long do you have to keep my jewelry for a written appraisal?

It depends on the number and complexity of your items and why you need them appraised. I complete most written assignments within one week. I always show you identifying characteristics before you leave your items and again when you pick them up.

What if I don’t know whether I want to keep or sell my jewelry?

In my Broker’s Price Opinion, I estimate how much money I expect to sell your item for and specify my commission percentage, depending on immediate liquidation or long-term consignment. I also discuss other options such as how to sell it on your own.

If you work by the hour, how do I know how much the appraisal will cost?

For most written appraisals, I quote a maximum fee so that you can decide whether to proceed. The fee for oral appraisals is $90 per half-hour. The actual time required varies according to the items and your questions. Less than an hour is usually sufficient for one or two items.

What should I do before I come?

Please bring any documentation you have, such as sales receipts and old appraisals. Here are other things you can do to prepare for your jewelry appraisal.