Appraisals???

[candlelite80]

What is the going rate for an appraisal for an engagement ring? I am in Southern NJ, if that matters. I am just wondering what the usual price is, I had mine done but I thought the charge was a bit low... just wondering what the average is. Can anyone help?

 

[belle]

it depends area and service. i''ve had some jewelry stores offer to do an ''appraisal'' for $30-$40 but a true appraisal from an independent appraiser offering a full services would probably be more in the $100-$300 range.

 

[neatfreak]

Generally it depends on the number of reports/tests you want and the carat weight of the stone/ring. I think they generally start around $75ish? At least that''s what mine would have cost for my lil .81.

 

[surfgirl]

$100-$200

 

[Richard Sherwood]

Depends on the item (loose stone? mounted in simple gold/platinum mounting? mounted in diamond mounting? mounted in designer diamond mounting?) and the comprehensiveness of the report (photos? no photos? advanced analysis? advanced equipment?), but most independents would probably fall in the $100 to $200 range.

 

[oldminer]

A retailer might offer less costly appraising in hopes of getting you in the door and possibly influencing your decision to make a purchase from a competitor. An independent appraiser has no need of that tactic, but must charge enough to make a living from services and not from other sales. In the area you can get work done for free up to the $300 range depending on the time required for complexity and the weight of the diamond. Free appraisals are pretty much worth what they cost. Over priced appraisals are generally worth some of what they cost..... Moderation is good so long as the advice is based on knowledge. Fancy tools make the process more scientific and interesting for clients. Ultimately, the value reported is based on some relatively simple principles of valuation theory. Using these principles properly is what a good appraiser does better than a weaker one.

 

[Modified Brilliant]

Locally, I find that retailers who also do appraisals charge a bit less because they can offset the lower fees
with repairs, sales, and the hope of winning you over as a new customer. You absolutely get what you pay
for in the appraisal world.

www.metrojewelryappraisers.com