Appraisers local or out of state? most and best equipment?

[horatio]

Just curious,

When you pick an appraiser, it seems some have more equipment, reports, etc. than others. Would that be a factor in selecting one over the other? I personally feel more comfotable if someone runs a battery of tests for me using various techniques, equipment, etc., versus just someone with X number of years of experience, or someone with a "superb" or eagle eye.

That being said, who would you recommend that has all the toys and gadgets, in addition to ALL the qualities that make a great appriaser/evaluator of my diamond engagment ring.

If someone does not have any the fancy bells and whistles, would they be able to do a good or better job than those without all the toys? I don''t mind paying a little bit extra just to get that "extra mile" for my own comfort sake.

I guess this is very similar to diamond retailers (internet or b&m), some have more information than others, and it sometimes boils down to how you feel.

Another issue I have is whether I should stick to someone close to me where I can go visit them and personally see the diamond and talk to the appraiser, or send to someone highly regarded here on this forum (like Mr. Atlas and Mr. Beaty, and others), and trust their judgment without ME seeing the diamond and/or setting.

P.S., appraised LOOSE or WITH SETTING?

Thanks!

closing in......

 

[strmrdr]

If you want extra info on the diamond get it appraised before setting.
I personally will have enough info on any stone I buy that I would just have it appraised set and get the stove verified against my paperwork and the appraisal done for insurance.
Any of the well know PS appraisers will do a great job for you.
This place is a test by fire for them and the top appraisers rise too the top.

 

[Regular Guy]

Date: 9/26/2007 3:10:19 PM
Author: strmrdr

I personally will have enough info on any stone I buy

I might not...inasmuch as I could be unsure that the publicly available info...including the HCA...though may be sufficient to make a provisional judgement, but one I'd be more ultimately unsure of for a final test...and though I'd be predisposed to go with an on-line vendor...certainly if you choose to buy locally...you would not expect to have the kind of data available that these guys here provide.

As Storm directs...if a diamond with AGS0 certification, and/or other such goodies (ASET, Brilliancescope, etc) ...a local professional may be sufficient.

If not...sending away to a boutique appraiser may be completely appropriate (and is what I would do).

Probably.

Regards,

 

[strmrdr]

Date: 9/26/2007 3:29:45 PM
Author: Regular Guy

Date: 9/26/2007 3:10:19 PM
Author: strmrdr

I personally will have enough info on any stone I buy

I might not...inasmuch as I could be unsure that the publicly available info...including the HCA...though may be sufficient to make a provisional judgement, but one I''d be more ultimately unsure of for a final test...and though I''d be predisposed to go with an on-line vendor...certainly if you choose to buy locally...you would not expect to have the kind of data available that these guys here provide.

As Storm directs...if a diamond with AGS0 certification, and/or other such goodies (ASET, Brilliancescope, etc) ...a local professional may be sufficient.

If not...sending away to a boutique appraiser may be completely appropriate (and is what I would do).

Probably.

Regards,

I have a h&a scope, loupe, ASET, and IS.
Combine that with an AGS or GIA report and its enough info for in person shopping for me.
only thing missing is an helium/sarin scan and while its real good too have one shopping in person I can skip it.
Shopping online I want one.

b-scope, isee2 and other tests are all kewl and nice options but are optional.
It depends on what shape im shopping for too, asschers I could buy with just my eyes and a GIA cert.

 

[oldminer]

Have I become a "boutique appraiser"? Oh boy!

 

[Modified Brilliant]

Great questions Horatio.

There are no simple answers but here''s my professional take on the matter.

Most PS diamond vendors here provide very good documentation and reports and
help to act as "your eyes over the internet." Some go above and beyond with "additional
reports." Others rely on just a lab report, usually GIA or AGS.
The same holds true for appraisers. We''re not all "labs" "boutique" or otherwise and we all
provide different types of services. No two diamond vendors are alike and no two appraisers are alike.

If multiple reports using state of the art equipment is part of your personal requirement..then by all
means seek out the appropriate appraiser to do the job.

Most appraisers here are able to put your mind at ease by verifying information on multiple reports and
interpreting the results. An appraiser should be able to answer your questions honestly, intelligently, and
reasonably during your session. It''s your time....it''s your money, ask questions.

Jeff Averbook, G.G. Graduate Gemologist/Appraiser

www.metrojewelryappraisers.com