When clients book a jewelry appraisal at our Rockefeller Center showroom, the first thing they want to know is what they should bring to make the process smooth and accurate. Getting your jewelry appraised is straightforward, but bringing the right information can help the jeweler determine the accurate value of your jewelry faster and with more certainty.
Below is a quick list that answers the question immediately. If you want more detail, simply scroll to the sections that follow.
Quick Checklist: What to Bring
- The jewelry item itself
- Any previous appraisal reports
- Certificates from GIA or other gemological laboratories
- Original boxes, packaging, or accessories
- Sales receipts or documentation such as receipts
- Repair notes or information about past work
- Multiple pieces if you want a group evaluation
- Personal goals for the appraisal
- Identification if required by your insurance company
Here is a closer look at each item on the list and why it matters.
1. Bring the Jewelry Item You Want Appraised
The most important part of your appointment is the jewelry itself. A jewelry appraiser needs to see the item in person to assess the value, condition, and materials used in the piece. A gemologist examines gemstones, carat weight, metal purity, surface wear, hallmark stamps, and any signs of repair. Even if the jewelry is a family heirloom or a damaged piece, bring it in. A professional can still assess the value and provide a detailed description of what they see.
Having the actual item helps the appraiser determine the monetary value and current market value with accuracy.
2. Bring Any Appraisal Reports or Documentation You Already Have
If you have ever had the jewelry appraised in the past, even many years ago, bring the documents with you. Prior appraisal reports, certificates of authenticity, or sales receipts can help the appraiser understand provenance and see whether there have been changes in the jewelry over time.
These documents help the appraiser compare information and identify anything that may require clarification or a second opinion.
3. Bring Certificates From Gemological Laboratories
If your jewelry comes with a certificate from GIA or another gemological laboratory, bring it with you. Certificates help the jeweler confirm gemstone identity, carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, and cut proportions. If the gemstone has diamond certification from GIA, that information is especially useful.
Examples of helpful documents include:
- GIA-certified diamond reports
- Gemstone identification certificates
- Certificates of authenticity from designers
- Warranty cards
- Packaging inserts from retailers
Bringing these items helps the appraiser confirm details quickly and identify any discrepancy between paperwork and the jewelry itself.
4. Bring the Original Box or Packaging
Original packaging matters more than many clients realize. Designer boxes, watch booklets, spare links, warranty cards, and presentation cases can add context to the provenance and full value of the jewelry.
If you want to sell your jewelry in the future, original packaging can influence demand and help support the appraised value of your jewelry in the secondary market.
5. Bring Sales Receipts or Proof of Purchase
If you still have a sales receipt or store invoice, bring it with you. Receipts help the appraiser see where the item came from, what was originally sold, and how the retailer listed it. Documentation such as receipts is especially valuable for insurance purposes, tax purposes, or asset division.
Most clients do not have receipts, so do not worry if yours is missing. Bring whatever you do have.
6. Bring Repair Information or Notes About Modifications
If the jewelry has been resized, had prongs retipped, gemstones replaced, or undergone any form of repair, mention it during the appointment. Past repairs or structural updates can influence the value of the item. Even a short note such as “chain clasp fixed last year” or “stone replaced in 2019” helps the appraiser understand condition and history.
The more information you bring, the easier it is for the appraiser to provide a comprehensive jewelry appraisal.
7. Bring Multiple Pieces If You Want Them Evaluated Together
Many clients bring several jewelry items at once. This is especially helpful when you want to get a second opinion, prepare jewelry for insurance companies, or update an up-to-date appraisal. Other times, clients bring multiple pieces because they want to sell their jewelry or understand differences between types of jewelry appraisals.
You are welcome to bring as many items as you like. We provide free Authentication and Evaluation services so you can understand the appraised value before requesting formal documentation.
8. Bring Information About Your Goals
Tell the appraiser why you want the jewelry appraised. This helps us choose the right type of appraisal.
There are several different types of jewelry appraisals, including:
- Insurance valuation
- Fair Market Value appraisal
- Resale or secondary market valuation
- Tax purposes valuation
- Estate or inheritance documentation
The type of appraisal you need affects how the jeweler assesses the value and prepares the report. The appraised value is not necessarily the same across all appraisal types, so understanding your goals ensures accuracy.
9. Bring Identification If Your Insurance Company Requires It
Some insurance companies require an ID at the time of appraisal, especially when filing a claim or updating coverage for an event of loss or theft. While not mandatory for every appointment, bringing identification ensures nothing slows down the process.
Expert Tips for Getting Your Jewelry Appraised Smoothly
Tip 1: Lightly Clean Your Jewelry Before the Appointment
A simple wipe with a soft cloth helps the gemologist inspect the gem and metal clearly. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Tip 2: Bring Any Documentation You Have, Even If It Seems Small
A single receipt or certificate can help the appraiser determine full value more efficiently.
Tip 3: Choose the Right Jewelry Appraiser
It is important to find someone experienced and qualified. A graduate gemologist or certified and experienced jeweler can assess the value of your jewelry with accuracy and provide a detailed description in the report.
Tip 4: Ask Questions About Insurance Purposes or Selling Your Jewelry
If you want to insure the piece, we will explain what your insurance company may require. If you want to sell the item, we will explain how market value differs from retail value.
Tip 5: Update Your Appraisal Every Two to Three Years
Jewelry can experience significant changes in its value due to market conditions, metal pricing, and gemstone supply and demand. Keeping an up-to-date appraisal protects you when filing a claim.
FAQs About What to Bring to an Appraisal
1. Do I need certificates to get my jewelry appraised?
No. Certificates help the appraiser, but they are not required. Most clients come without paperwork.
2. Should I bring the original box or packaging?
Yes. Packaging, designer boxes, and certificates of authenticity can influence the appraised value.
3. How often should I update my appraisal?
You should update your appraisal every two to three years to reflect current market conditions.
4. Can I bring multiple items at once?
Yes. You can bring as many jewelry items as you want. We evaluate everything and explain what needs formal documentation.
5. Do I need an appraisal if I want to insure jewelry?
Yes. Insurance purposes require formal documentation. Without an appraisal, most insurers cannot confirm coverage.
Visit Us in Rockefeller Center for a Comprehensive Jewelry Appraisal
If you want to get your jewelry appraised with accuracy, bring the jewelry and whatever documents you have, and we will take care of the rest. Whether you need documentation for insurance companies, want to understand the monetary value, or want to sell the piece, our certified and experienced appraisers will guide you with clarity and professionalism.
