Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising

Antique, Period, and Modern

There is more to appraising jewelry than just being parable sales and a value determination. Then, all this able to put a dollar value on an item. The title of ap­ information, with clear jewelry descriptions, must be praiser distinguishes the individual who is able to iden­ succinctly put together with photographs and deliv­ tify, witness, estimate status, excellence, or potential­ ered to the client. ity, and to determine the authenticity of an article. Today's jewelry appraiser should also be cognizant Many factors impact on a thorough appraisal, espe­ of the vicissitudes of fashion, how changes impact the cially on estate and period jewelry. jewelry market in a substantial and vital manner in both design and style. A careful look must be given to Developing all this expertise is a lot to ask of practi­ tioners who only a decade ago were barely making a study of color psychology with an awareness of why specific gemstones and their colors and enamels of cer­ distinction between a well-written sales receipt and a professional appraisal report. tain colors were used in different periods. Industrial In the past few years bold changes have taken place developments, from machine stamped jewelry, the use in this field. It is now understood that standard ap­ of aniline dyes in clothing, and development of the praisal concepts and principles can be applied to the electric light, have influenced design and use of gem­ stones.