appraisers in NoVA/DC?

[gte937k]

I''m looking for an appraiser in Northern VA / DC area. I''ve seen Martin Fuller mentioned in a few posts, but he is not listed under independent appraisers here at Pricescope. Does anyone know why he''s no longer listed? Does anyone have experience with the other appraisers that are listed in this area?

I called Fuller and Associates and was quoted $250/hr with an expected 1hr 15mins appraisal time if done in two steps (loose, then set). This seems really pricey considering that my old appraiser in MI charged a flat $65. Any thoughts?

Luis

 

[SYC]

I''m not sure why Martin isn''t listed on the PS tool, but he is superb at what he does. He also makes the appraisal process fun and educational, so if you''re curious about anything gem-related, he will have great answers to all your questions. I do think he''s worth the fee, and personally I love the peace of mind of working with someone as experienced and knowledgeable as he is. I''ve been back a couple times now with my fiance, and I have to say we''ve always enjoyed our visits!

I think his discounted PS rate is $200/hour, so you may want to check up on that and consider that the fee might be worthwhile.

 

[dbsdiamonds]

I used to live in Northern Va. Martin Fuller is excellent at appraisals although very very very very pricey. I don''t see paying more than $50 to $100 max but you ARE in N. Va so gotta pay the rents!

In Vienna there is Ed Czernatzky, or something of that affect. I''m sure I spelled his name wrong.

Go to www.appraisers.org Or, here, I just looked it up:

http://www.appraisers.org/findappraiser/index.cfm?CFID=1469494&CFTOKEN=12720171

I know of several people who used Lynne in Bethesda, they were pleased with her work. Ed has been around a long time as well.

Hope this link helps you and others...

Marty
CEO/Pres
DBS Diamonds
www.diamondsatcost.com

 

[gte937k]

No luck on a PS discount with Martin Fuller.

 

[dbsdiamonds]

Lol I probably could have told you that!

I remember when I worked at Tyson''s Corner Mall before the bottom level was built and Tyson''s 2 wasn''t around. Fuller use to work at Melart Jewelers before he broke away and started his appraisal business. He''s built up a good following and with his GIA presidency of Va. Chapter or other titles he''s accumulated he''s been very involved in the business.

Integrity second to none, nice easy going manner to talk to, just a super super dude. $250+ for an appraisal (or whatever he charges) is quite a hype up of for extra paperwork, expecially when verifying a diamond is a minute process if already GIA''d. But good for him. I haven''t talked with him in probably 10 years but I''''ve recommended him to many. Up to ya''ll to decide whether to pay the piper...

Marty
CEO/Pres
Diamond Brokerage Service, Inc
www.dbsdiamonds.com

 

[vfrhokie]

Another guy with nothing but good things to say about Martin Fuller. Mine was only $200/hr a few months ago, but I wouldn''t hesitate to pay what he''s asking.

 

[gte937k]

I spoke with Lynne Loube in Bethesda and Ed Czernatzky in NoVA. Both quote a flat $125, which I think is reasonable considering that it's DC-metro. The only concern I have is that they both deal diamonds.

Ms. Loube's site makes it sound like she's in the antique and high-value estate jewelry market, which is quite different from a standard engagement ring. So, it's hard to argue that she is not "independent".

Most people in the forums and the tutorials on PS emphasize the importance of going to an "independent" appraiser that does not sell diamonds. Any opinions for this specific case?

Thanks again for everyone's comments.


Luis

 

[february2003bride]

I would also recommend Martin Fuller. He truely is the best!