Chicago Area Appraisers?

[omieluv]

My mom is looking to have a diamond appraised, however, her current appraiser has retired and she needs to find someone else just as reliable. She would really prefer being able to meet with the appraiser in person, so I was wondering if anyone would be able to recommend an appraiser for her from the Chicago area.

Thanks so much!

ETA: Just noticed there is another thread on this that was posted a wee bit earlier today. Mod's I would be fine with deleting this post...

 

[Angel7]

I got this one from PS
https://www.pricescope.com/appraisers_IL.aspx

Just went up to Resources and that was the only one for Illinois

 

[Dee*Jay]

Chicago Gem Lab
5 South Wabash, 16th Floor
312-263-2221
Lorraine Oakes is great to work with!
Professional Gem Sciences
5 South Wabash #1905
312-920-1541

Chicago Gem Lab is more of what I think of in terms of a traditional appraiser; knowledgeable gemologist sitting down with a client and going over the ins and outs of a piece. She'll look at both loose items and set items. Lorraine has appraised several peices for me over the years and she produces a very detailed thorough report, including a photo of the item and a plot of the inclusions of the diamonds.

Pro Gem is more of a "technical/scientific" operation. Lots of equipment and deep analysis going on there. I have never personally used Pro Gem, but they are very well respected. I would probably go there if I wanted a Sarin or some other more in-depth analysis.

But depending on what my need was, I wouldn't hesitate to use either one of these organizations.

Good luck!

 

[omieluv]

Many thanks Angel7 for pointing that one out. I never thought to check the PS site, silly me!

DeeJay, thanks to you as well. I am glad you have had first hand experience with Chicago Gem Lab, I will pass along to my mother as well. Lorraine sounds like she follows a similar process to what my mother experienced with her former appraiser. She just wants to have the diamond appraised for insurance puproses, so I do not think the services provided by ProGem will be necessary (sounds interesting though). Being the kid, I will let her make her own decision, as mother knows best, right?